Ah, Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice! This dish holds a special place in my heart—and stomach! I remember the first time I tried it during a family gathering, and I was instantly hooked. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter paired with succulent shrimp is just unbeatable. Every bite transports me back to that moment when my grandma would whip up her famous shrimp dish, and I’d happily devour it like I hadn’t eaten in days.
What I love most about this recipe is how delightfully simple and quick it is to whip up, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Plus, you can’t beat the combination of seasoned shrimp with fluffy rice; it’s like a warm hug on a plate! So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
What’s in Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
Shrimp: The star of the show! I prefer using large or jumbo shrimp, as they soak up the flavor beautifully. If you’re using frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them properly—nobody wants shrimpy ice in their dish!
Butter: Because butter makes everything better, right? A good quality unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Garlic: Minced or sliced, garlic adds that mouthwatering depth that pairs perfectly with shrimp. It’s a must!
Rice: Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works wonderfully with this dish. It absorbs the buttery garlic sauce, creating a comforting base.
Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the flavors.
Is Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This dish offers some health benefits, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Shrimp: They’re a fantastic source of lean protein, and they contain important nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Just be cautious about the shrimp source for environmental reasons—opt for sustainable options when possible.
Butter: While it’s delicious, butter is high in saturated fats, so moderation is key! You could also use olive oil as a lighter alternative if you’re looking to cut down on saturated fats.
Rice: It’s a great source of carbohydrates, giving you that energy boost, but remember it’s still best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your carb intake.
Overall, this dish is a tasty treat; just enjoy it in balance!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (for cooking rice)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Juice of half a lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
This recipe serves 4.
How to Make Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
1. Start by cooking your rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
2. While the rice is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Trust me; burnt garlic tastes awful.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over them and stir well. Remove from heat.
6. When your rice is done, fluff it with a fork and divide it among four plates. Spoon the buttery shrimp mixture over the rice.
7. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor!
A Few Extra Cooking Tips
– For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic.
– Feel free to toss in some veggies! Peas or spinach wilted in at the end work beautifully and add great color.
– If you’d like a creamier dish, you could stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
I really hope you give this Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice a try! It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether for a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out—I absolutely love hearing your cooking adventures! Happy cooking!
