Garlic Herb Shrimp

This garlic herb shrimp brings together tender shrimp sautéed in a rich buttery sauce infused with fresh garlic and fragrant herbs. The combination of dried basil, oregano, and a touch of lemon zest creates a savory background that highlights the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley, this dish is bright and inviting, coming together in under 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer.

I remember the first time I made this recipe on a hectic weekday evening. It was ready before my family arrived and they were impressed by how fresh and flavorful it tasted. Since then it has become a regular whenever I want a fast but satisfying seafood meal.

Ingredients

• One pound large shrimp: peeled and deveined to ensure a clean and shellfree bite
• Three tablespoons salted butter: adding richness and helping to carry the garlic and herbs’ flavors
• Three cloves garlic: minced to create a fragrant aromatic base that elevates the shrimp
• Half teaspoon dried basil: for a sweet slightly peppery herbal note
• Half teaspoon dried oregano: providing earthiness that complements the shrimp perfectly
• Half teaspoon lemon zest: bringing a bright citrus fragrance and hint of zing
• Quarter teaspoon salt: to season and enhance all the flavors
• Quarter teaspoon black pepper: adding a subtle heat and depth
• Quarter teaspoon red pepper flakes: to introduce a gentle kick balancing the richness
• Three tablespoons fresh lemon juice: giving a fresh tangy finish to brighten the dish
• Two tablespoons freshly chopped parsley: as a fresh vibrant garnish with a subtle herbal flavor

Instructions

Sauté the Butter and Garlic:

Heat the butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat until it begins to foam gently. This step ensures the butter melts fully without burning. Add minced garlic and stir it into the butter for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.

Add and Season the Shrimp:

Place the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet in a single layer if possible to promote even cooking. Sprinkle dried basil, oregano, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes over the shrimp evenly. Stir frequently as the shrimp cooks until it turns opaque pink, curls slightly, and becomes firm but tender. This takes about three to four minutes. Watch carefully to prevent overcooking which results in rubbery texture.

Finish with Lemon and Parsley:

Once the shrimp is cooked, remove the skillet from heat immediately. Pour fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Gently toss everything together so the shrimp is evenly coated with bright fresh flavors. Serve the shrimp immediately for the best taste and texture.

My favorite ingredient is the butter because it melts the garlic and herbs into a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp. The first time I made this for friends, it disappeared in minutes and led to several requests for the recipe.

Storage tips

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave but avoid overcooking since shrimp become tough when reheated too long. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh as reheating diminishes the delicate flavors and texture.

Ingredient substitutions

If dried basil or oregano are unavailable use fresh but reduce the amount because fresh herbs are more potent and add moisture. Unsalted butter can be swapped for salted butter just add a pinch of salt with the other seasonings. Olive oil makes a good dairyfree alternative although the flavor profile changes somewhat. Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for milder taste.

Serving suggestions

Garlic herb shrimp goes wonderfully alongside light sides like steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. It is also delicious served on top of a crisp salad or inside warm tortillas for shrimp tacos. Consider a side of roasted vegetables or crusty bread to savor every drop of the buttery garlic sauce and complete the meal.

Serve the shrimp immediately for the best taste and texture. Reheat leftovers gently to avoid overcooking and maintain tenderness.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ How can I tell when shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque pink and curl into a loose 'C' shape, typically after 3 to 4 minutes in a hot skillet. Remove promptly to avoid rubberiness.

→ Should I use fresh or dried herbs for this dish?

Dried basil and oregano are used during cooking for concentrated flavor, while fresh parsley is added at the end for a bright, fresh note.

→ Can shrimp be cooked with tails on or off?

Tails can be left on for easy handling as finger food or appetizers; remove tails when serving over pasta or rice to avoid unwanted crunch.

→ What kind of pan is best for cooking this shrimp?

A cast iron or heavy skillet works best as it retains heat evenly, enhancing the flavor while sautéing in butter and garlic.

→ How do I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Red pepper flakes add mild heat; adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit entirely for a milder version.

→ Is this dish suitable for quick weeknight cooking?

Yes, it comes together in under 15 minutes using simple ingredients, making it a convenient and flavorful choice for busy nights.