Garlic Butter Shrimp Bursting with Flavor & Zest

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Here’s a bright, juicy, flavor-packed Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests 🍤🧄✨

🍤 Garlic Butter Shrimp Bursting with Flavor & Zest

Serves 4 | Ready in 15 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional heat)
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: 1 tbsp white wine (adds depth)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Shrimp

  • Pat shrimp dry (important for a good sear).
  • Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2️⃣ Sauté the Garlic

  • Heat olive oil + 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add garlic and red pepper flakes.
  • Cook 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let garlic brown).

3️⃣ Cook the Shrimp

  • Add shrimp in a single layer.
  • Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  • Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

4️⃣ Finish with Zest

  • Stir in remaining 1 tbsp butter.
  • Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley.
  • Spoon sauce over shrimp before serving.

🍽 Serve With

  • Buttery rice
  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Pasta (toss directly in the pan)
  • Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
  • Over a fresh salad for a lighter option

✨ Flavor Boost Ideas

  • Add 2 tbsp heavy cream for a light garlic cream sauce.
  • Stir in grated Parmesan at the end.
  • Splash of white wine before adding shrimp for restaurant flavor.
  • Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for color.

🔥 Pro Tip

Shrimp cook fast! Remove them as soon as they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery.

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