Garlic Butter Shrimp And Vegetables Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of juicy shrimp, tender vegetables, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering before the first bite. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don't have time to spend hours in the kitchen.

I first made this recipe on a whim, trying to use up some leftover shrimp in my freezer. It turned out to be an instant favorite in my house, making its way into our regular dinner rotation. With minimal prep and just one pan, it's a stress-free meal that's as delicious as it is simple.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp And Vegetables

Get ready to fall in love with this easy and flavorful dish. Garlic Butter Shrimp and Vegetables is a game-changer for anyone who loves quick, nutritious, and satisfying meals.

First, it's incredibly fast to make. From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in under 20 minutes. That makes it perfect for those hectic nights when time is short but you still want something homemade.

This dish is also packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. The shrimp are rich in protein, while the colorful mix of vegetables adds essential vitamins and nutrients. It's a balanced meal in one pan.

Not to mention, the garlic butter sauce is absolutely irresistible. The combination of melted butter, minced garlic, and a touch of lemon brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp while adding a deep, savory richness to the vegetables.

Best of all, this recipe is highly versatile. You can switch up the vegetables, add a bit of spice, or even serve it over pasta or rice to make it heartier. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Vegetables recipe comes from using simple, fresh ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role in creating bold, delicious flavors.

Shrimp is the star of the show, and I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work just as well—just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Garlic is what gives this dish its signature flavor. You'll need fresh minced garlic to infuse the butter with an aromatic, rich taste. Avoid garlic powder here; fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference.

Butter forms the base of the luscious sauce, coating every bite with a silky richness. I prefer using unsalted butter so I can control the salt level, but you can use salted butter if that's what you have on hand.

Vegetables bring color, texture, and nutrients to the dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are my go-to choices because they cook quickly and complement the shrimp perfectly. Feel free to customize with whatever vegetables you love.

Lemon juice adds the perfect bright, tangy contrast to the rich garlic butter sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.

A large skillet or wok is all you need to bring this dish together. Since shrimp cook quickly, using a hot pan ensures they get a nice sear while staying juicy inside.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp And Vegetables

Making this dish is as easy as it gets! Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Start by prepping your ingredients. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they're fully thawed, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until they're pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Then, toss in your vegetables, stirring frequently to coat them in the garlicky butter.

Let the vegetables cook for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften but still have a bit of crunch. Add the shrimp back to the pan and stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for extra freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy every garlicky, buttery bite!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shrimp can dry out when reheated, so it's best to warm them gently in a skillet over low heat rather than using a microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and vegetables in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan with a little extra butter.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is super adaptable, so don't be afraid to make it your own!

If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.

Swap out the vegetables based on what you have. Mushrooms, asparagus, or snap peas all make great additions.

Want to make it heartier? Serve this garlic butter shrimp and vegetables over cooked pasta, rice, or even quinoa for a more filling meal.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Experiment and find your favorite twist on this easy and delicious dish!

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