The Ultimate Garlic Butter Herb Shrimp
There is something universally magnetic about the sizzle of succulent shrimp hitting a hot pan filled with golden butter and fragrant aromatics. This Garlic Butter Herb Shrimp isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfectly pink, tender, and bathed in a luxurious sauce of infused oils and fresh garden herbs, this dish strikes the perfect balance between gourmet elegance and home-cooked comfort.
The Essential Ingredients
- Extra-Large Shrimp (Peeled & Deveined): The star of the show. Larger shrimp ensure they stay juicy and plump during the searing process.
- Unsalted Grass-Fed Butter: Provides a velvety mouthfeel and rich base. Unsalted gives you total sodium control.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Raises the smoke point of the butter to prevent burning while adding fruity undertones.
- Fresh Garlic (Minced): Essential for that pungent, savory aroma that defines high-end seafood.
- Fresh Sage and Parsley: Sage adds a musky, earthy note, while parsley brings a bright, peppery freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat to balance the richness of the fats.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The vital acidity that “wakes up” the protein and cuts through the butter.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Prep and Dry: Pat shrimp thoroughly dry. Removing moisture is key to achieving a perfect golden sear.
- Initial Seasoning: Toss shrimp with a drizzle of oil, salt, pepper, and half your fresh herbs.
- The Sizzle: Sear shrimp in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove and set aside.
- The Butter Sauce: Melt butter on medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant.
- Emulsify: Whisk in lemon juice and the remaining herbs to create a glossy, cohesive sauce.
- The Reunion: Return shrimp to the pan, tossing for 30 seconds to coat in herb-infused garlic butter.
Helpful Pro Tips
- Batch Cooking: Never overcrowd the pan; this ensures a crispy exterior rather than steaming the shrimp.
- Cold Butter Finish: For an extra-thick sauce, whisk in one pat of cold butter after removing from heat.
- Crispy Sage: Fry the decorative sage leaf in the butter first for a sophisticated textural contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this dish into a complete meal by serving over al dente linguine for a classic scampi, or pair it with a warm crusty baguette to soak up the liquid gold sauce. For a low-carb option, these shrimp are divine over zucchini noodles or a fresh arugula salad.