- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic & Shrimp
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently (don’t burn it!).
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 3: Finish with Lemon & Herbs
- Reduce heat to low, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, and squeeze in lemon juice.
- Stir everything together and cook for 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve with rice, pasta, roasted veggies, or crusty bread to soak up the garlicky sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Variants & Additions
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi – Serve over linguine or spaghetti with extra lemon zest.
- Asian-Inspired Garlic Shrimp – Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil for a twist.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook on medium-high heat for no more than 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Can I grill the shrimp instead?
Absolutely! Marinate in the garlic butter sauce and grill for 2 minutes per side.
4. What’s the best shrimp size for this recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best for a juicy bite.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for vegan butter or extra olive oil.
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