Oh, my goodness! Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite dishes: Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice. This delectable treat is not just a meal; it’s an experience! I first tried making this dish on one of those cozy, rainy days when all you want is something warm and comforting. The aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to make my mouth water, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
There’s something fundamentally magical about the combination of succulent shrimp, rich butter, and vibrant garlic. Every time I make it, I’m instantly taken back to that rainy day, snuggled on my couch with a big bowl of this heavenly goodness. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together—it’s easy to make, yet feels fancy enough for special occasions. Trust me, once you try it, you’re going to want to put it on repeat!
What’s in Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this buttery, garlicky delight so special:
Shrimp: I prefer using raw, deveined, and peeled shrimp. They’re so much easier to work with and, of course, fresher! If you can find wild-caught shrimp, even better; they have that fantastic, sweet flavor.
Butter: This is where the magic happens! I use unsalted butter because I like to control the saltiness of the dish. Plus, it allows the natural flavors of the shrimp and garlic to shine.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. The stronger the garlic aroma, the better! Just a few cloves will infuse the shrimp with that rich flavor we all love.
White Wine: This is optional, but I love adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan. It adds acidity and depth to the dish. A dry wine works best, but just make sure it’s one you’d enjoy sipping, as it really elevates the flavor!
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright zing that balances the richness of the butter. It’s like sunshine on a plate!
Cooked Rice: This is what you’ll serve your splendid shrimp over. I usually go for jasmine rice; its fragrant aroma pairs beautifully with seafood. But brown rice or any rice of your choice will work just fine!
Is Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice Good for You?
You might be wondering, with all that butter, is this dish even healthy? Well, here’s the scoop on the health benefits:
Shrimp: They are low in calories and high in protein! Plus, they’re loaded with key nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Just watch your portion sizes and opt for wild-caught when possible.
Butter: While it does have saturated fat, using it in moderation can fit into a balanced diet. Plus, those healthy fats are essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.
Garlic: This pungent little bulb isn’t just for flavor; it also has some impressive health benefits! Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting properties.
Rice: While white rice is often seen as less nutritious than brown rice, it still provides a decent source of carbohydrates for energy. Just pay attention to your portions, especially if you’re watching carbs.
All in all, it’s a delicious balance of flavors, and when enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet, it can certainly be a treat you can indulge in without guilt!
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – my go-to brand is Kerrygold for its rich flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 cups cooked rice (I recommend jasmine)
Serves 4.
How to Make Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
1. Begin by cooking your rice according to package instructions. If you’re a meal prepper like me, you can use leftover rice too!
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about a minute, or until fragrant.
4. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start turning pink.
5. Flip the shrimp, add the remaining butter, and if you’re using it, pour in the white wine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked (they’ll turn opaque and firm).
6. Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp and give everything a good stir to combine.
7. Serve the butter garlic shrimp over the cooked rice and drizzle that glorious sauce from the pan over the top!
Delicious Tips and Variations
– If you want to spice it up, add some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a little kick.
– Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
– If you’re feeling especially fancy, garnish with lemon slices and a sprig of parsley. It might seem small, but it makes your dish look restaurant-worthy.
I hope you give this Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice a try! Cooking should be fun and full of love, just like our friendship in the kitchen! So, let me know how your version turns out, and happy cooking!
