1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Season Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) until evenly coated.
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt Butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and cook for another 1 minute.
- Combine with Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the shrimp through.
- Add Parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve:
- Plate the Shrimp: Transfer the shrimp with garlic butter to a serving platter.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
- Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to achieving the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright, fresh flavor that complements the garlic butter sauce perfectly.
- Timing: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
- Wine: Add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for added depth of flavor.
Conclusion:
Shrimp with garlic butter is a timeless dish that’s simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. The combination of succulent shrimp with a buttery, garlicky sauce is sure to satisfy any seafood lover. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Enjoy the delicious taste and simplicity of this classic dish!