Introduction:
Dive into a sea of flavors with Baked Shrimp and relish the delicate taste of succulent shrimp bathed in a vibrant symphony of lemon and garlic-infused butter sauce. This dish isn’t just about simplicity; it’s a celebration of the ocean’s bounty, where each tender bite is adorned with the zest of lemon and the richness of butter, promising an unforgettable culinary journey.
Baked Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is an elegant yet effortless dish that exquisitely combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with the tangy brightness of lemon and the aromatic essence of garlic. The shrimp, oven-baked to perfection in a luscious buttery sauce, embodies a harmonious balance of flavors. This recipe encapsulates the epitome of gourmet simplicity, offering a luxurious dining experience with minimal effort.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Lemon slices and additional chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or sheet with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the arranged shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the edges begin to curl slightly.
- Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and garnish with lemon slices and additional chopped parsley for freshness.
- Serve the Baked Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce immediately, accompanied by crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips or Notes:
- Choose large shrimp for this dish to ensure they don’t overcook quickly.
- Adjust the amount of garlic, lemon, and spices according to your taste preferences.
- Drizzle any remaining sauce from the baking dish over the plated shrimp for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.