Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic butter, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also promises to impress your family and friends with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes: delicious, satisfying, and visually appealing. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil dish is a culinary masterpiece that brings together a medley of flavors that dance on your palate. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes just 20 minutes from start to finish. You can have a gourmet meal ready in no time!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a symphony of flavors that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta for a complete meal, or pair it with crusty bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Nutritious: Shrimp are a great source of protein while being low in calories. Combined with fresh herbs, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil make this dish a showstopper at any dinner table.
Whether you’re a shrimp lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, if you enjoy seafood dishes, you might also love my Crispy Garlic Shrimp with Paprika or Shrimp Alfredo Pasta.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re still on the fence about trying this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil recipe, let me give you a few compelling reasons to make it tonight:
- Convenience: With just a handful of ingredients, you won’t need to spend hours at the grocery store. Most of these items are staples that you may already have at home.
- One-Pan Wonder: Not only is it quick, but you can also prepare this dish in one skillet, minimizing cleanup time. This is especially appealing after a long day!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to make this dish even more nutritious and colorful.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in. Its elegant flavor profile and presentation make it ideal for entertaining.
- Delicious Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers, they make for a fantastic lunch the next day. Just reheat and enjoy the deliciousness all over again!
So, if you’re ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with a delightful seafood dish, let’s go ahead and gather the ingredients for our Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil.
Ingredients and Utensils Needed
To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them beforehand.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This will provide the rich, buttery flavor essential for the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These add a tangy sweetness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs truly elevate this dish, adding a burst of freshness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: The acidity helps balance out the richness of the butter and shrimp.
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving (optional): Use your preferred type of pasta or some fresh bread to enjoy the sauce.
Utensils Needed
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following utensils:
- Large skillet: A good-quality skillet is essential for even cooking and flavor development.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the shrimp and sauce, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Measuring spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients, which is crucial to achieve the best flavor.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping your garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
- Serving dishes: To plate your beautiful creation!
Now that we have our ingredients and utensils ready, let’s dive into the detailed recipe steps for our Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that your family and friends will rave about!
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, creating a rich base for your sauce. The key is to not let the butter brown; we want it just melted and foamy.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the flavor of your dish.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. This is a crucial step; overcooking the shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them!
Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once the shrimp are cooked through, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Allow them to cook for another 2 minutes, letting their flavors meld into the shrimp and butter sauce. This step enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a delightful texture to the dish.
Step 5: Finish with Basil and Lemon Juice
Remove the skillet from heat and add 1/4 cup of fresh chopped basil along with the juice of 1 lemon. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the shrimp are well-coated with the sauce and herbs. The fresh basil and lemon juice will add a burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil! You can plate it over your choice of cooked pasta or serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips and Variations
To make this dish even more delightful, consider these tips and variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
- Vegan Option: Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or tofu and use a vegan butter alternative for a plant-based version.
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your pasta is gluten-free if using it.
- Spice it Up: If you love heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
When preparing the dish, remember that timing is key. Ensure your shrimp are not overcooked by keeping a close watch during the cooking process. Enjoying this meal fresh is ideal, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Values and Benefits
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 24g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
The shrimp in this recipe are an excellent source of protein and are low in calories, making them a healthy choice for a meal. The sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while fresh basil provides essential vitamins and a burst of flavor. Additionally, garlic is known for its numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and heart health support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil?
You can serve this dish over cooked pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s also great with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to increase the heat level to your liking.
What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Any type of pasta works well with this dish, but spaghetti or linguine are great options as they hold the sauce beautifully.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that is sure to delight your taste buds. With its quick cooking time and simple ingredients, it’s ideal for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you enjoyed this dish. Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page for inspiration!
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like:
- Shrimp Fried Rice
- Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp
- Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
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Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat and add the fresh basil and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve the garlic butter shrimp over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
