Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp: A Flavorful and Easy Seafood Delight
Craving a quick and delicious seafood dinner? Look no further than this Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, showcasing the natural sweetness of shrimp elevated by a zesty lemon-butter sauce. With minimal ingredients and hands-on time, you'll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Course: Main Course Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10-12 minutes Total Time: 20-22 minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures optimal cooking temperature for the shrimp.
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Create the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp to the marinade and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Baking:
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the shrimp: Spread the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the shrimp for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can result in tough shrimp.
Serving:
- Garnish: Sprinkle the cooked shrimp with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp while hot, as the flavors are best appreciated when fresh.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Shrimp size: For best results, use large shrimp with consistent size for even cooking.
- Lemon freshness: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Baking time: Adjust baking time based on the thickness of the shrimp. Thicker shrimp may require an additional minute or two.
- Flavor enhancements: For added heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinade. To elevate the dish, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon-butter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Grain-based options: Brown rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Fresh vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a green salad
- Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the sauce
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