Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 4 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
How to Make Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- If your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, remove the shells and devein the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat (or heat the olive oil if you prefer a lighter option).
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be fragrant and lightly golden, not browned.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
- If using wine or chicken broth, pour it into the skillet once you flip the shrimp. Let it simmer for a minute to deglaze the pan and infuse the shrimp with extra flavor.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Herbs
- Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the garlic shrimp immediately. They’re perfect on their own, or you can serve them with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic-butter sauce.