Garlic Shrimp Skillet: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Garlic Shrimp Skillet is a delightful dish that has won the hearts of many seafood lovers. This easy-to-make recipe features fresh prawns marinated with olive oil and black pepper, then sautéed with aromatic garlic, rich butter, and a splash of white wine. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, bringing Mediterranean flavors right to your table. Let’s dive into this scrumptious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Skillet

This Garlic Shrimp Skillet is not just another garlic shrimp dish; it’s a culinary experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Loaded with flavor from garlic and white wine, making every bite a delight.
Versatile dish: great on its own or paired with garlic shrimp pasta dish or rice.
Healthy option packed with protein and low in carbs, aligning with gluten-free diets.
Can be customized with vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Perfect for entertaining; impress your guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Skillet

Gather these items:

500g / 1lb prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined, tail on (unpeeled weight 1kg/2lb)
1/2 tsp cooking kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (separated)
40g / 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into 1.5cm / 1/2″ cubes
1/4 cup chardonnay or other dry white wine
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
Lemon wedges
Bread for mopping

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Skillet Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, place the prawns along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the black pepper. Gently toss everything together to coat the prawns evenly. Let them rest for 20 minutes, but do not exceed this time to avoid the prawns sweating due to salt.
Step 2: Place a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to warm up.
Step 3: Add the marinated prawns to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they just start turning pink.
Step 4: Add the finely minced garlic to the pan, stirring it in carefully so it does not burn, then add the cubes of unsalted butter. Continue cooking while stirring gently for another 2-3 minutes until prawns are cooked through and the butter has melted into a flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, letting it sizzle and reduce slightly for about 1 minute. Then stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Step 6: Remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the finely chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and bread to mop up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Skillet

Keep these in mind:

Don’t over-marinate the prawns to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in your garlic shrimp sauté.
Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance your garlic shrimp dish.

Garlic Shrimp Skillet: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish - Garlic Shrimp Skillet - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Shrimp Skillet

Here are some fantastic serving ideas:

Serve over rice for a hearty meal.
Pair with a side of crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter shrimp sauce.
Top with fresh herbs and serve as an elegant appetizer.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Shrimp Skillet

To store your Garlic Shrimp Skillet, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. This dish is perfect for meal prep since it comes together quickly and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Shrimp Skillet

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Shrimp Skillet?

The key is not to overcook the shrimp. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque for a tender texture. Using high-quality ingredients, like fresh garlic and good olive oil, also enhances the flavor profile. For more tips, check out this guide on cooking shrimp.

Can I make Garlic Shrimp Skillet ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can pre-marinate the shrimp in advance. Cook them just before serving to ensure they maintain their delicious texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Shrimp Skillet?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can make them rubbery. Also, be mindful of the garlic; add it just before the shrimp to prevent burning. Follow the garlic shrimp cooking instructions carefully for best results.

Variations of Garlic Shrimp Skillet You Can Try

Mix things up with these variations:

Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a healthy garlic shrimp option.
Try a spicy twist by including red pepper flakes for a kick.
Substitute the white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Garlic Shrimp Skillet: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish - Garlic Shrimp Skillet - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy White Wine Mushroom Chicken or Garlic Butter Baked Chicken.