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Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp: A Simple, Flavorful Seafood Delight
When it comes to quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dishes, Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is an undeniable winner. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, a rich butter sauce, and the bright zest of fresh lemon, creating a meal that feels both luxurious and effortless. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a light appetizer, this dish is sure to impress anyone who loves seafood.
Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or new to cooking shrimp, this Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp recipe is a must-try. It requires minimal ingredients, takes little time to prepare, and the result is simply delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes under 30 minutes to prepare. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want a hassle-free but impressive meal.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter infuses the shrimp with incredible flavor while keeping it light and refreshing. Whether served with pasta, over rice, or as a standalone appetizer, the flavors work beautifully with a variety of sides.
- Healthy and Light: Shrimp are high in protein, low in calories, and rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium. Paired with a simple, flavorful lemon-butter sauce, this dish makes for a healthy yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high heat will allow the shrimp to cook quickly and evenly while getting slightly caramelized in the lemon butter sauce.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This ensures that the shrimp cook properly and don’t become soggy.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and dried oregano (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the mixture.
4. Arrange the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. You can also use a casserole dish if you prefer. Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece is coated in the sauce.
5. Bake the Shrimp:
Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are opaque and pink. Keep an eye on them, as shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooking can make them tough, so as soon as they’re no longer translucent, they’re ready.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can serve the shrimp immediately, spooning the buttery sauce over the shrimp and any sides.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Pasta: Serve the shrimp and lemon butter sauce over a bed of spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for a rich, flavorful pasta dish.
- With Rice: A simple side of steamed rice or risotto is perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with toothpicks or as a starter to a larger meal. The vibrant lemon and buttery flavor makes them a crowd favorite.
- With Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or a simple green salad pair beautifully with this dish.
