Savor the rich flavors of Italy with Garlic Butter Shrimp, a quick, aromatic dish blending juicy shrimp and garlicky butter sauce. In under 30 minutes, enjoy it as a chic appetizer or a sumptuous side with rice or pasta.
In a large bowl, mix shrimp with garlic powder, ginger powder, a pinch of pepper powder, a dash of chili flakes, a sprinkle of salt, and a light dusting of cornstarch. This combination infuses the shrimp with a flavorful, spicy kick.
Toss the shrimp in the bowl to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the seasoning. For deeper flavor, let the shrimp marinate for 15 minutes. However, you can skip this waiting period for a quicker preparation.
To Fry the Shrimp
Heat a sufficient amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Test the oil temperature by placing a single shrimp in the pan - it should sizzle upon contact.
Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn a lovely golden color. The key is to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside succulent.
After achieving the desired golden hue, transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels. This step is crucial to remove any excess oil, ensuring your shrimp remain crispy and not greasy.
To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
In the same pan, melt a generous amount of butter. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté until it's golden and aromatic, laying the foundation for a rich, flavorful sauce.
Introduce a mix of freshly chopped basil, parsley, and a sprinkle of chili flakes to the butter. Stir these ingredients, allowing them to cook slightly and release their flavors, creating a harmonious blend.
Gently add the fried shrimp back into the pan. Toss them in the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each shrimp is well-coated and infused with the herb and garlic flavors.
Finish off by sprinkling freshly chopped coriander over the shrimp. This adds a burst of color and a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the rich garlic butter.
To Serve
Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp over a bed of fluffy, cooked rice or alongside al dente pasta. For additional serving ideas refer to the serving suggestions section.
Notes
Here are some essential tips for making Garlic Butter Shrimp:
Quality Shrimp Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for better flavor and texture in your dish.
Room Temperature Butter: Allow the butter to come to room temperature before customizing the sauce. This ensures smoother blending and better consistency.
Marinating for Flavor: To really bring out the flavors, marinate the shrimp in basic spice powders. This simple step can make a big difference in taste.
Keeping Shrimp Succulent: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. A quick 2-3 minute fry will keep them juicy and tender.
Customizing the Garlic Butter Sauce: If you enjoy a bit of heat, the chili flakes in the sauce are perfect. But for a classic taste, feel free to leave them out.
Herbs for Aroma and Taste: While I've used dried herbs, fresh ones can add an even more delightful aroma and flavor. Use them if you have them on hand.
A Zesty Touch with Lemon: A little lemon juice can elevate the dish with a fresh, zesty flavor. It's great if you like a bit of tang in your seafood.
Oven-Baked Variation: If you prefer baking, mix the shrimp with butter, garlic, and herbs, then bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes on a greased baking sheet. A final garnish of herbs adds the perfect touch.
Vegetable Options: For a complete meal, try stir-frying your favorite vegetables along with the shrimp. This adds nutrition and variety, making it a perfect and balanced dish.