Garlic Butter Shrimp

Instructions:

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter until shimmering.
3. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently in the sauce until fully coated and warmed through, about 1–2 minutes.
7. Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
8. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Variations:

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Add a splash of heavy cream and a bit of grated Parmesan to the sauce for a creamy version.
• Spicy Cajun: Replace red pepper flakes with Cajun seasoning for a Southern twist.
• Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a touch of oregano.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles.

Tips:

• Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best texture—frozen shrimp can be watery if not properly dried.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just cooked through to maintain tenderness.
• Deglaze the pan with white wine for extra depth of flavor if you prefer it over broth.
• Double the sauce if serving with pasta—it’s too good not to have extra.

Garlic Butter Shrimp is the kind of recipe that tastes like you’ve spent far more time in the kitchen than you actually did. It’s fresh, flavorful, and always satisfying—perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to entertaining.