Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
This Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe is a delightful dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds. With its bold garlic flavor and a hint of spice, it’s perfect for any occasion—be it a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering. The buttery sauce enveloping the shrimp makes this dish incredibly addicting, ensuring that it will become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 17 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: Packed with garlic and herbs, every bite is bursting with rich and delicious flavors.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using simple, fresh ingredients elevates this shrimp dish to restaurant quality right in your kitchen.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your spice preference, making it perfect for everyone.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools at hand. Having everything organized will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking shrimp evenly without overcrowding.
- Cutting board: Keeps your workspace clean and makes chopping ingredients safer and more efficient.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for garlic and herbs, enhancing the dish’s presentation and flavor release.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Dish
- 6 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 jalapeño (center removed, minced; only use 1/2 to reduce heat)
- 10 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup cilantro (approx 1 bunch, finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 lb shrimp (shells removed, deveined)
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
How to Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp
Begin by prepping your shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season generously with salt, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Jalapeño
In a large skillet over low heat:
1. Add the butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Once melted and heated through, add the minced garlic and jalapeño.
3. Cook these ingredients for 2-3 minutes on low until they become soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Herbs to the Pan
Next:
1. Stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley until well combined with the buttery mixture.
2. Pour in the additional tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Allow this mixture to cook for another 1-2 minutes on low heat.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Finally:
1. Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan.
2. Cook them for about 2-4 minutes on each side, depending on their size.
3. They are ready to flip when they turn pink or orange on one side.
4. Once both sides are cooked through, squeeze half a lemon over the top, give everything a final toss, and serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy your flavorful Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, whether as an appetizer or main course!
How to Serve Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Sopping Up Sauce: Serve the shrimp with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Over Rice
- Flavorful Base: Place the shrimp on a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the sauce to flavor each grain.
On Pasta
- Hearty Meal: Toss the shrimp with cooked pasta for a comforting and satisfying dinner option.
In Tacos
- Fresh Twist: Use the shrimp as a filling for soft tortillas, adding fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.
With Salad
- Light Pairing: Serve the shrimp alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
As Part of a Platter
- Sharing Dish: Arrange the shrimp with other appetizers, such as olives or cheese, for a delightful sharing platter.
How to Perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
To create the best Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, follow these simple tips for perfect results every time.
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Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Look for firm, translucent specimens.
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Control Heat Carefully: Cook on low heat to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn. This preserves its sweet, aromatic flavor.
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Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of jalapeño based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure.
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Do Not Overcook Shrimp: Cook until just pink and firm. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
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Add Fresh Herbs Last: Incorporate cilantro and parsley towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
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Finish with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Pairing side dishes with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce enhances your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the garlic flavors in your dish while providing a crunchy texture.
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Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add freshness and balance to your meal.
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs the flavors well while keeping your meal light.
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Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that pairs well with shrimp; toss it with lemon vinaigrette for added zing.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the buttery shrimp.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the shrimp dish.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with seafood dishes.
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Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs provides another flavorful base that works well with garlic sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making shrimp in garlic sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
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Using unseasoned shrimp: Always season your shrimp with salt before cooking. This enhances their natural flavor and ensures they are delicious.
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Cooking garlic too long: Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Cook it just until fragrant and soft, about 2-3 minutes, to maintain its sweetness.
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Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley provide essential flavor. Don’t skip these; chop them finely and add them at the right time to integrate their taste.
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Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make them tough. Watch them closely—cook for just 2-4 minutes per side until pink and firm.
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Not using enough fat: The butter and olive oil are crucial for a rich sauce. Ensure you have enough fat in the pan to properly cook the garlic and shrimp without sticking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Consume within 2 days for best quality.
Freezing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Use within 1 month for optimal freshness.
Reheating Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
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Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
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Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.
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Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth. Cook for 3-5 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making shrimp in garlic sauce:
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What kind of shrimp is best for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
Large or extra-large shrimp work best as they hold up well during cooking and absorb flavors nicely.
How spicy is this Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe?
The spiciness depends on the amount of jalapeño you use. For less heat, use only half or omit it altogether.
Can I customize this Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Is Shrimp in Garlic Sauce gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as no gluten-containing ingredients are added during preparation.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to fit various occasions. Whether it’s an appetizer or a main dish, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!
Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is a delectable seafood dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table in just 17 minutes. This easy recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of spice from jalapeño, making each bite an exquisite experience. Perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal—this dish impresses with its rich taste and versatility. Serve it over pasta, rice, or simply with crusty bread to soak up the aromatic sauce. Customize the heat level to suit your preference, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 jalapeño (minced)
- 10 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
- 1 lb shrimp (deveined)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry and season with salt.
- Heat butter and 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over low heat. Add garlic and jalapeño; cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cilantro and parsley along with the remaining olive oil; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-4 minutes per side until pink. Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
