Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

This Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this dish is packed with garlicky goodness and a hint of spice that keeps you coming back for more. The buttery sauce envelops tender shrimp, making it an ideal accompaniment to crusty bread or served over pasta. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce
• For the Herbs
• For the Shrimp
• How to Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp
• Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
• Step 3: Add Herbs
• Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp
• How to Serve Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Pasta
• On a Bed of Rice
• As an Appetizer
• With a Side Salad
• With Grilled Vegetables
• How to Perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Reheating Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
• What can I serve with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
• How do I customize this Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe?
• Is Shrimp in Garlic Sauce spicy?
• How do I know when the shrimp are done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 17 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon creates a vibrant taste that pleases the palate.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or over pasta for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pan is all you need, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather your kitchen tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide pan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide pan: A wide surface allows even cooking of the shrimp and prevents overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 6 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 jalapeño (center removed, minced; use only 1/2 to reduce heat)
• 10 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Herbs

• 1/2 cup cilantro (approx 1 bunch, finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup parsley (finely chopped)

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb shrimp (shells removed, deveined)
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)

How to Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels. Sprinkle them generously with salt and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a wide pan over low heat:
1. Add the butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Once melted, add the minced garlic and jalapeño.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Herbs

Next:
1. Stir in the cilantro and parsley until combined with the butter mixture.
2. Pour in the additional tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on low heat.

Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp

Now it’s time to add your shrimp:
1. Place them into the pan; cooking time may vary based on size (about 2-4 minutes per side).
2. Flip when one side has turned pink or orange.
3. Once cooked through, squeeze half a lemon juice on top, give it a final toss, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, bursting with flavor!

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

• Freshly baked baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Over Pasta

• Serve the shrimp over spaghetti or linguine for a hearty meal that combines seafood with rich flavors.

On a Bed of Rice

• Jasmine or basmati rice makes an excellent base that complements the shrimp’s savory notes.

As an Appetizer

• Serve shrimp skewers as bite-sized appetizers for gatherings or parties.

With a Side Salad

• A light, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the garlic sauce perfectly.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pairing with seasonal grilled veggies adds texture and color to your plate.

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How to Perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

To ensure your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cooking shrimp in batches prevents steaming and allows them to sear properly.

• Adjust garlic levels – Customize the amount of garlic based on your preference; more garlic means more flavor!

• Control heat carefully – Cooking on low heat helps prevent burning and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Squeeze lemon at the end – Adding lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish without cooking off its freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic ideas:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up all that delicious sauce; warm and buttery.

2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing complements the richness of the shrimp.

3. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty grain option that adds protein and pairs well with seafood flavors.

4. Roasted Asparagus – Simple yet elegant, seasoned asparagus enhances your plate’s visual appeal and taste.

5. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with rich shrimp flavors.

6. Couscous Salad – Light and fluffy couscous tossed with herbs makes a delightful addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while preparing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough. Aim for 2-4 minutes per side, depending on size, until they turn pink or orange.
• Using too much heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the garlic and jalapeño. Always start with low heat to develop the flavors without burning.
• Skipping the salt: Not salting your shrimp before cooking can result in bland flavor. Salt them generously before cooking for a more flavorful dish.
• Not prepping ingredients first: Preparing ingredients while cooking can lead to mistakes or burnt food. Chop your garlic, herbs, and shrimp ahead of time for smoother cooking.
• Ignoring freshness: Using old or frozen shrimp that have thawed improperly can affect taste. Opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible or ensure proper thawing techniques.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for best quality.

Freezing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a pan, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Shrimp in Garlic Sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What can I serve with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I customize this Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe?

Feel free to add other spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also include vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Is Shrimp in Garlic Sauce spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on how much jalapeño you use. You can adjust this according to your preference by using less or omitting it altogether.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp will turn pink or orange and will become firm when cooked properly.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is a delightful blend of garlicky goodness and herby flavors that makes it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or veggies!