Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

This Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe is a culinary delight perfect for any occasion. With its rich, garlicky flavor and a hint of spice, it’s sure to please your guests or make a cozy night in even more special. This dish shines as an appetizer, a main course, or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of shrimp with fresh herbs creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp Dish
• How to Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
• Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Jalapeño
• Step 3: Add Herbs
• Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
• How to Serve Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Rice
• On Pasta
• In Tacos
• With Salad
• As an Appetizer
• How to Perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Reheating Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What type of shrimp should I use for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
• Can I make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce without jalapeño?
• How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
• Can I use other herbs besides cilantro and parsley?
• How spicy is Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 17 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon juice brings out the natural sweetness of shrimp, making it incredibly delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, serve it over pasta or rice, or pair it with crusty bread for dipping.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan — perfect for those who dread washing dishes!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools on hand will streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking shrimp evenly while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy chopping of garlic and herbs, maximizing flavor release.
• Tongs or spatula: Perfect for flipping shrimp without damaging them, maintaining their tenderness.

Ingredients

This shrimp dish is PACKED with garlicky, herby flavor. With a kick of heat and a small touch of acid this buttery shrimp dish is wildly addicting.

For the Shrimp Dish

• 6 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 jalapeño (center removed, minced; only use 1/2 to reduce heat)
• 10 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup cilantro (approx 1 bunch; chopped finely)
• 1/4 cup parsley (chopped finely)
• 1 lb shrimp (shells removed, deveined)
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)

How to Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by prepping your shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season them generously with salt, tossing to coat thoroughly.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Jalapeño

In a large skillet over low heat, add the butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely before adding minced garlic and jalapeño. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Herbs

Stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley into the pan mixture. Then add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Continue cooking on low heat for another 1-2 minutes until the herbs are well combined with the buttery sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Now it’s time to add the seasoned shrimp to your skillet. Depending on their size, cook them for about 2-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink or orange and firm up on one side. Once cooked through, squeeze half a lemon over the top, give everything a final toss, and serve immediately alongside crusty bread.

Enjoy your delightful plate of Shrimp in Garlic Sauce!

How to Serve Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Serving Shrimp in Garlic Sauce can elevate any meal, making it a delightful experience. Here are some creative ideas for enjoying this garlicky shrimp dish.

With Crusty Bread

• This is a classic pairing. Use fresh baguette or ciabatta to soak up the buttery garlic sauce.

Over Rice

• Serve the shrimp over fluffy white or brown rice to absorb the flavors. It makes for a hearty meal.

On Pasta

• Toss cooked spaghetti or linguine with the shrimp and sauce for a quick and easy pasta dish.

In Tacos

• Use corn tortillas to create shrimp tacos. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added zest.

With Salad

• Pair the shrimp with a light salad, featuring mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette for balance.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions of shrimp on skewers as a flavorful appetizer at gatherings or parties.

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How to Perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

To make your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce truly outstanding, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will have better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Look for firm, translucent shells.

• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your spice preference. Removing seeds will give you milder heat.

• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough.

• Use Quality Butter: The butter is key to the sauce’s richness. Opt for unsalted butter for more control over seasoning.

• Add Herbs Last: Incorporate herbs like cilantro and parsley near the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavors.

• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of extra herbs or lemon zest before serving adds freshness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly complements the dish, allowing you to enjoy every drop of garlic sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies such as asparagus or bell peppers add color and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber balances out the richness of the shrimp.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides contrast and freshness, making it an excellent addition.
5. Couscous: Fluffy couscous works well as a base, soaking up the delicious sauce.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a nice touch of sweetness that pairs well with spicy shrimp.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer comfort and are great for dipping into the sauce.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette refreshes your palate after rich bites of shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish.

• Using unseasoned shrimp: Always season your shrimp with salt before cooking. This enhances the flavor and makes each bite more delicious.
• Cooking garlic too long: Overcooking garlic can lead to a bitter taste. Cook it just until fragrant for the best flavor.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer less heat, use only half of the jalapeño. Adjusting spice allows everyone to enjoy this dish.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro and parsley are key to this recipe. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant flavor.
• Crowding the pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once can steam them instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Shrimp in Garlic Sauce.

What type of shrimp should I use for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?

Fresh or frozen shrimp works well. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.

Can I make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce without jalapeño?

Yes, you can skip it or substitute with red pepper flakes for a milder heat level.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also be firm to the touch.

Can I use other herbs besides cilantro and parsley?

Absolutely! You can try basil or chives for different flavor profiles while still keeping it fresh.

How spicy is Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?

The heat level depends on how much jalapeño you use. For mild, add only half or omit it entirely.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that combines buttery flavors with a hint of spice. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main course and is easily customizable based on your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own!