This garlic shrimp recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor and it’s quick and easy to make.
Garlic shrimp is a dish that is commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine. However, variations of garlic shrimp can be found in various cuisines around the world, including Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and even Asian cuisines.
With just a handful of ingredients, it transforms humble shrimp into a dish that’s bursting with savory goodness.
The combination of tender shrimp cooked in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil creates a flavorful dish. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the shrimp remains juicy and succulent. Additionally, the addition of butter, parsley, lemon juice, and optional red pepper flakes enhances the overall taste profile, making it a delightful dish that is both savory and satisfying.
It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner, an elegant appetizer, or a flavorful addition to pasta or rice dishes. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply looking for a delicious and effortless meal, this garlic shrimp recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Here are some cooking tips to help you make the perfect garlic shrimp:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh shrimp and garlic for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Prep Shrimp Properly: Make sure to peel and devein the shrimp before cooking. This ensures a clean and enjoyable eating experience.
- Control Garlic Browning: Be careful not to let the minced garlic burn while sautéing. Garlic can quickly turn bitter if overcooked, so keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns golden brown.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be vigilant to avoid overcooking them. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Seasoning: Season the shrimp generously with salt and black pepper before cooking to enhance their natural flavor.
- Adjust Heat: If using red pepper flakes for heat, add them according to your spice preference. You can increase or decrease the amount to suit your taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh chopped parsley at the end not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal flavor that complements the garlic shrimp beautifully.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the dish. It’s a simple yet essential finishing touch.
- Serve Immediately: Garlic shrimp is best served immediately after cooking while still hot and fresh. This ensures the shrimp remains tender and flavorful.
By following these cooking tips, you’ll be able to make perfect garlic shrimp every time, with delicious flavor and succulent texture that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy!
Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound about 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
- Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Sauté Garlic:Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Cook the Shrimp:Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip the shrimp over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque.
- Finish with Seasonings:Once the shrimp are cooked through, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness (if using). You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if desired.
- Serve:Transfer the garlic shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer, main dish, or over cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal.
- Enjoy!Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Shrimp straight from the skillet, savoring the juicy shrimp infused with aromatic garlic and buttery goodness.