How to Cook Italian-Style Lemon Butter Shrimp
If you're looking for a delicious and easy seafood dish, Italian-style lemon butter shrimp is a perfect choice. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich lemon butter sauce that is packed with flavor. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to become bubbly but not browned, which will help infuse the butter with a lovely flavor.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Shrimp
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Immediately add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over to cook for an additional 2 minutes on the other side.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Wine
When the shrimp are cooked through, it's time to add the flavor! Pour the white wine (if using) into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom. Squeeze the juice of the lemon and add the zest, stirring well to incorporate. Let it cook for another minute to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
To finish the dish, add the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat (if desired). Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp and sauce to a serving dish. This Italian-style lemon butter shrimp can be served over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a bright presentation.
Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Shrimp
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste; if you love citrus, feel free to add more!
- If you're not using white wine, consider adding a splash of chicken broth instead.
Enjoy your homemade Italian-style lemon butter shrimp, a dish that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen!