If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful seafood dish, look no further than this Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic, a hint of smokiness from the paprika, and a bright pop of citrus from the lemon. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Pair it with your favorite rice or pasta for a complete meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley. First and foremost, the flavor profile is absolutely irresistible. The rich, creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the smoked paprika adds a unique depth of flavor that sets it apart from other shrimp dishes.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, toss it with your favorite pasta, or even enjoy it on its own as a light and satisfying meal. The addition of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
Moreover, this dish is a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. You’ll also appreciate that shrimp is a lean source of protein, making this dish not just delicious but also nutritious.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Trying out new recipes can be an exciting culinary adventure, and this Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley is one you won’t want to miss. Here are a few compelling reasons to give it a try:
1. **Quick and Easy:** With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 10-15 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy evenings when you need a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
2. **Healthy Ingredients:** Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Combined with wholesome butter and fresh herbs, this dish provides a well-rounded nutritional profile.
3. **Impressive Presentation:** The vibrant colors of the shrimp, bright lemon zest, and fresh parsley create an eye-catching plate that will impress your family and guests alike.
4. **Customizable:** Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your preferences. You can adjust the level of garlic, spice it up with more paprika, or experiment with different herbs to create your own unique version.
5. **Perfect for Meal Prep:** This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for future meals.
Ingredients and Utensils Needed
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: cooked rice or pasta for serving
Utensils
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Serving plates or bowls
Having the right tools and ingredients will set you up for success in preparing this Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley. Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Follow these steps for a delicious and easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Zest and juice your lemon, ensuring to keep the zest separate from the juice.
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Ensure that the butter is fully melted and bubbling, but not browned.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be cautious not to let the garlic burn, as this can lead to bitter flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Flip and Finish: Flip the shrimp over and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce. Ensure the shrimp are fully cooked, which should take around 5-6 minutes total.
- Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. This adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor to the dish.
- Serve: Serve immediately over cooked rice or pasta if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
**Cooking Tip:** To ensure the shrimp cook evenly, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook in batches.
Tips and Variations
While this Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley recipe is delightful as is, here are some tips and variations to consider:
- Vegan Option: Substitute the shrimp with plant-based alternatives like tofu or chickpeas, and use olive oil or vegan butter in place of regular butter.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure that any additional ingredients, like sauces or sides, adhere to gluten-free standards.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Include veggies such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Herb Substitutes: If fresh parsley isn’t available, you can use fresh basil, cilantro, or even dill to change up the flavor profile.
- Cooking Method: This recipe can also be adapted for grilling. Simply skewer the shrimp and grill over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor.
**Common Mistakes to Avoid:** Ensure your shrimp are not overcooked, as they can become rubbery. Always check they are opaque and curled up, indicating they are done. Additionally, be mindful when adding salt; the smoked paprika can also add saltiness.
Nutritional Values and Benefits
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley not only delights your taste buds but also provides a nutritious profile. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
**Nutritional Benefits:**
– **Shrimp:** A fantastic source of lean protein, low in calories, rich in vitamins and minerals such as B12 and iodine.
– **Garlic:** Known for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure.
– **Lemon:** Provides vitamin C, which is essential for skin health and immune function.
– **Butter:** While high in calories, it contains healthy fats and helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to enhance the spice level.
Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is smoked paprika, and can I substitute it?
Smoked paprika is a spice made from dried and smoked peppers, adding a rich flavor. You can substitute it with regular paprika, but you may miss the smoky flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley is a delightful dish that brings together flavors and textures for a truly satisfying meal. With its quick prep time and impressive presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with your own variations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your experience! For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page or explore these related recipes: Butter Masala Shrimp, Zesty Shrimp.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet with Smoked Paprika, Lemon Zest, and Fresh Parsley
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink.
- Flip the shrimp and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately over cooked rice or pasta if desired.
