Garlic Shrimp Recipe: A Simple, Flavorful Dish
This recipe for garlic shrimp is incredibly easy to make, yet delivers a burst of delicious flavor that will impress your family and friends. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a more elegant dinner party. The key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and letting the natural flavors shine through.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (ensure they are completely thawed if frozen)
- 6 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 10 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better!)
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor; you can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Before you begin, make sure your shrimp are thoroughly thawed and patted dry with paper towels. This helps them brown beautifully in the pan.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown, as this can make it bitter.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp and Cook
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan (Optional)
If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a delicious richness to the sauce.
Step 5: Stir in Lemon Juice and Season
Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Shrimp:
- Use fresh shrimp: The flavor difference is noticeable.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the spice: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your preference.
- Get creative with sides: Serve with your favorite vegetables, salad, or a simple side of pasta.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, but make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Q: What if I don't have white wine? A: You can substitute with chicken broth or simply omit it.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: It's best served immediately, but you can prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture ahead of time and reheat gently before serving. Avoid overcooking when reheating.
This simple Garlic Shrimp recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #GarlicShrimpRecipe on social media!
