Garlic Sautéed Shrimp
Plump, juicy shrimp tossed in a fragrant garlic and butter sauce with a hint of lemon and spice. This classic Italian-American dish is ready in under 10 minutes and perfect for a quick, high-protein meal.
For 4 servings
Prepare and season the shrimp.
- Thoroughly pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Season the shrimp on both sides with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
TIPDrying the shrimp is key to getting a nice sear instead of steaming them.Sauté the aromatics.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, but not browned.
TIPBe careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.Cook the shrimp.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes on the first side, until they start to turn pink and curl.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until they are opaque and fully cooked.
TIPAvoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery very quickly.Finish with lemon and parsley.
- Remove the skillet from the heat immediately.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
Serve immediately.
Serve the garlic sautéed shrimp hot, perhaps over zucchini noodles or with a side of steamed vegetables.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and lemon juice, not the bottled kind.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure they sear properly.
- 3You can add a splash of white wine with the garlic for a more traditional scampi flavor.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
For a lighter version, omit the butter and use 3 tablespoons of olive oil instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
quickQuick
Use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp and jarred minced garlic to save on prep time.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes to make a mild version that's suitable for children.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Low in Carbohydrates
With virtually no carbs, this dish is perfect for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Rich in Selenium
Shrimp is a great source of the antioxidant selenium, which helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy dish. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and is low in calories and carbohydrates. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.