##**Garlic Butter Shrimp – A Classic Indulgence**
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Servings:** 4
**Calories per Serving:** 320 kcal
#### **📖 The Story Behind the Dish**
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a **beloved seafood staple**, often enjoyed in cozy home kitchens and fine dining restaurants alike. Its rich, buttery sauce complements the natural sweetness of shrimp, making it a **go-to dish** for any seafood lover. Whether you’re preparing an elegant dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe never fails to impress.
### **📝 Ingredients:**
– 500g shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tbsp butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
### **🍽️ Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the shrimp:** Peel and devein them to remove the digestive tract, ensuring a clean, fresh taste.
2. **Melt the butter:** In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter until slightly golden.
3. **Sauté the garlic:** Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. **Cook the shrimp:** Toss in the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for **2-3 minutes per side** until they turn pink and opaque.
5. **Finish with freshness:** Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley for a bright, citrusy touch.
6. **Serve immediately:** Pair with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the buttery goodness!
### **🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):**
– **Calories:** 320 kcal
– **Protein:** 30g
– **Fat:** 18g
– **Carbs:** 8g
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sodium:** 570mg
### **💡 Cooking Tips & Variations:**
– **Spicy kick:** Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
– **Depth of flavor:** Splash some white wine into the pan before serving.
– **Herb alternatives:** Swap parsley for cilantro or basil for a unique twist.
– **Grilled option:** Marinate shrimp and grill for **3-5 minutes per side**.
### **🔎 SEO-Optimized FAQ Section:**
**Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?**
Yes! Just thaw frozen shrimp under cold water for 5 minutes before cooking.
**Q: What’s the best butter to use?**
Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness better. But for richer flavor, try European-style butter.
**Q: How do I make it dairy-free?**
Use olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives instead.
### **📢 Serving Suggestions**
**Pair it perfectly:** Serve with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
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