Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is a delightful and flavorful dish that showcases the natural sweetness of shrimp combined with the tangy brightness of lemon and the richness of butter. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a part of a seafood feast. The shrimp are baked to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy morsels infused with the delicious flavors of lemon and butter. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to hold the shrimp in a single layer.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Arrange the shrimp in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the lemon butter mixture over the shrimp, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
- Place lemon slices on top of the shrimp for additional flavor and garnish.
- Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and chewy.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve the Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp immediately as an appetizer or main course. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to make it a complete meal.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild aroma of the sea.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, lemon juice, and zest according to your taste preferences. You can add more garlic for a stronger flavor or increase the lemon juice for extra tanginess.
- For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the dish. Fresh thyme, basil, or dill can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the butter mixture before pouring it over the shrimp.
- Serve the Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that showcases the natural flavors of shrimp combined with the zesty brightness of lemon and the richness of butter. With its succulent and tender texture, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your seafood cravings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a special meal at home, this recipe is a fantastic choice. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp.
