Lemon Butter Shrimp: A 15-Minute Delight for Dinner

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Lemon Butter Shrimp is a quick and easy way to enjoy shrimp with a burst of citrus flavor. This delightful dish can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The combination of butter, garlic, and fresh lemon juice creates a rich sauce that elevates the shrimp, making it a favorite for seafood lovers. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Shrimp

There are countless reasons to love this Lemon Butter Shrimp recipe:

Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights.
Delivers a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens any meal.
Pairs well with sides like rice or asparagus, offering versatility.
Low fat and healthy, making it suitable for various diets.
Great for meal prep, allowing for easy reheating.
Can be made in under 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
Options for variations like Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp.
Ideal for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Gather these items:

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make Lemon Butter Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and opaque.
Step 6: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1 minute to let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Step 8: Serve the Lemon Butter Shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be opaque and firm.
Serve with asparagus for a complete meal.
Experiment with spices like paprika for added heat.
Utilize a high-quality butter for richer flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Butter Shrimp

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas:

Serve over pasta for a hearty meal.
Pair with rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh salad.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Butter Shrimp

To store Lemon Butter Shrimp, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. This method is great for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy this dish throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Butter Shrimp

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Butter Shrimp?

The key is to use fresh shrimp and not to overcook them. Cook until just pink and opaque to ensure they’re tender and juicy, enhancing the Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce experience.

Can I make Lemon Butter Shrimp ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, then reheat gently before serving. This makes it a fantastic option for easy entertaining or meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Butter Shrimp?

To prevent common mistakes, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp and avoid crowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.

Variations of Lemon Butter Shrimp You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

Citrus Butter Shrimp: Add orange juice for a different citrus twist.
Lemon Butter Shrimp with Asparagus: Toss in asparagus during cooking for added nutrition.
Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp: Increase garlic for a robust flavor.
Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta: Combine with pasta for a filling meal.

Lemon Butter Shrimp: A 15-Minute Delight for Dinner - Lemon Butter Shrimp - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato.

Lemon Butter Shrimp: A 15-Minute Delight for Dinner - Lemon Butter Shrimp - additional detail

For more tips on cooking shrimp, you can visit Seafood Source for expert advice.