Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Name: Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (shelled and deveined); 6 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 10 cloves garlic (minced); 1 jalapeño (minced); ½ cup cilantro (chopped); ¼ cup parsley (chopped); Juice of ½ lemon; Salt

Published: June 14, 2025

by Sofia

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This Shrimp in Garlic Sauce recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with friends, this dish will impress with its rich, garlicky flavor and vibrant herbs. With just the right amount of heat and acidity, this buttery shrimp dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 17 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Packed with garlic and fresh herbs, each bite bursts with flavor that will leave you craving more.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even toss it into pasta for a hearty meal.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the jalapeño to your liking, allowing you to control the spice level.
Minimal Cleanup: Cook everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in creating perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large wide pan
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Tongs or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large wide pan: Ideal for even cooking and allows shrimp to sear properly without overcrowding.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of garlic, herbs, and peppers for maximum flavor release.

Ingredients

For this delectable Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sauce

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)

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp (shells removed, deveined)
1/2 lemon (juiced)

How to Make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp

Pat your shrimp dry and season them generously with salt. This step helps enhance their natural flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Jalapeño

In a large wide pan over low heat:
1. Add the butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Once melted and heated, add minced garlic and jalapeño.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Herbs

Add cilantro and parsley to the pan:
1. Stir well to mix them into the buttery sauce.
2. Add another tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on low heat.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Now it’s time to add your seasoned shrimp:
1. Depending on their size, cook for about 2-4 minutes on each side.
2. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink (or orange) on one side.
3. Once both sides are cooked through, squeeze half a lemon over the shrimp.
4. Give everything a final toss before serving.

Serve this mouthwatering Shrimp in Garlic Sauce with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce! Enjoy!

How to Serve Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Serving Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your tastes. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors.

With Crusty Bread

Enjoy the buttery sauce by dipping pieces of crusty bread into the dish. This adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs all the garlicky goodness.

Over Rice

Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite deliciously hearty.

On Pasta

Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy meal. The garlic sauce complements the pasta perfectly, creating a comforting dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Garnish the shrimp with additional chopped cilantro or parsley. This adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal of your dish.

With a Side Salad

Pair your shrimp with a light salad. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the shrimp.

As an Appetizer

Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at gatherings. The enticing aroma will surely tempt your guests and leave them wanting more.

How to Perfect Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

To elevate your Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and herbs for maximum flavor. Dried herbs lack the brightness that fresh ingredients provide.
Cook on Low Heat: Cooking on low heat allows the garlic to infuse into the butter without burning, resulting in a smoother taste.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; avoid overcooking by watching closely for color changes. They should turn pink and opaque.
Create Depth with Spice: Adjust the level of jalapeño according to your heat preference. A little kick enhances overall flavor without overwhelming it.
Finish with Lemon: Squeezing fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and adds acidity that cuts through the richness.
Experiment with Other Herbs: While cilantro and parsley are fantastic, try adding basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Pairing sides with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this crunchy, buttery bread complements the shrimp’s flavors perfectly.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli add color and nutrition while maintaining simplicity.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad brings nutty flavors and texture, making it a healthy side option.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve cauliflower rice seasoned lightly to absorb the garlic sauce.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a fun twist while being light and healthy alongside this rich dish.
Risotto: Creamy risotto provides an elegant accompaniment that enhances the overall dining experience.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add heartiness to your meal while soaking up leftover sauce beautifully.
Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to the savory shrimp, making for an exciting combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Keep an eye on them; they should be pink and opaque after just a few minutes.
Using too much garlic: While garlic is essential, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for balance.
Not seasoning enough: Salt enhances flavor. Make sure to season your shrimp well before cooking for the best taste.
Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley add depth. Don’t skip them; they make a big difference in flavor.
Ignoring the heat level: The jalapeño adds spice, but using too much can overwhelm. Adjust based on your heat preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Place shrimp in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in a baking dish covered with foil to retain moisture, heating until warm.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, gently reheat shrimp, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce less spicy?

You can reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it entirely for a milder dish while still enjoying the garlic flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I serve with Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

How can I customize my Shrimp in Garlic Sauce?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

Shrimp in Garlic Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for customization, so feel free to adjust ingredients based on your preferences. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to impress!

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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

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