Description
This Garlic Butter Tiger Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender tiger shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced with a hint of lemon and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer, it’s garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb (450g) tiger shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Ensure the tiger shrimp are fully peeled and deveined. Pat them dry thoroughly with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps in achieving a good sear during cooking.
- Melt the butter: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely without browning to prepare a flavorful base.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and fragrant but not burnt, which can impart bitterness.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the tiger shrimp to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and pink, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Add lemon and spice: Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the buttery garlic sauce and spices.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside your preferred side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are completely dry before cooking to prevent steaming and to get a nice sear.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your desired spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
- This recipe cooks quickly; avoid overcooking shrimp as they become tough and rubbery.
