Who says delicious appetizers require a trip to a fancy restaurant? This garlic butter shrimp comes together in just 5 minutes from prep to plate. The aromatic garlic butter sauce coats plump, juicy shrimp. Serve with a crusty baguette β you’ll want to lick the plate clean!
π¦’ Ingredients (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Quantity & Notes |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp (tiger/black tiger prawns) | 8-10 pieces (peeled, tails on, deveined) |
| Unsalted butter | 20g (essential for flavor) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (minced) |
| Dry white wine | 2 tbsp (optional, for aroma and deodorizing) |
| Parsley | 1 small bunch (chopped, for garnish) |
| Lemon | half |
| Red chili flakes | a pinch (optional) |
| Sea salt, black pepper | to taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
π Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp. Key to Tenderness
Peel the shrimp leaving the tails on. Slit the back with a knife and remove the dark vein. PatΒ completely dryΒ with paper towels, this step is non-negotiable! The drier the shrimp, the crisper they’ll sear.
Season with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Quick Searing. Lock in the Juices
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and half the butter. When the butter starts to foam, add the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding.
Sear for 1β1.5 minutes per side until the shrimp curl into a “C” shape and turn pink with golden-brown spots. Immediately transfer to a plate, overcooking turns shrimp rubbery!
Step 3: Make the Sauce. The Soul of the Dish
In the same pan over medium heat, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in white wine or substitute with water, and simmer until reduced by half.
Remove from heat. Squeeze in lemon juice and stir in chopped parsley and chili flakes. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss quickly to coat.
Step 4: Serve
Arrange the shrimp on a plate. Drizzle with the golden garlic butter sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley. Serve immediately with bread for dipping!
π‘ Pro Tips for Zero-Failure Results
- Heat control is everything: Maintain medium heat throughout. Higher heat will burn the butter and make it bitter.
- Doneness test: Shrimp curl into a “C” shape when perfectly cooked. An “O” shape means they’re overcooked.
- Upgrade: Add cherry tomatoes and spinach to the pan for a more balanced meal.
- Pairing suggestion: Serve over pasta or creamy risotto for a complete main course.
