Shrimp With Garlic And Basil
Succulent shrimp cooked in garlic, butter, and fresh basil, finished with lemon juice and paprika; a flavorful, quick dish perfect for seafood lovers and elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter and garlic in a heavy skillet.
- Add shrimp, parsley, basil, scallions, and lemon juice.
- Cook, turning shrimp and basting in sauce, until they turn white, about 5 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper, cook for 1 minute more.
- Sprinkle with paprika and serve on a bed of seasoned rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using unsalted butter to control the saltiness, or substitute with olive oil for a lighter option. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can work in a pinch, though the flavor will differ slightly. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or mix in some diced tomatoes. This dish is great for a quick weeknight meal or when hosting friends.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp dish over a bed of seasoned rice or pasta for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside a dish like Seafood Gumbo(Microwave) or a refreshing Crab Meat Pasta Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, covered, but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp With Garlic And Basil contains roughly 647 calories, with 72g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (376% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (270% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2375mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp are a convenient option. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water.
What type of shrimp is best for this dish?
Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe as they hold up well during cooking and have a nice texture. Look for shrimp labeled as 'wild-caught' for better flavor, but farmed shrimp will also suffice.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas can enhance the dish's nutritional value and add a pop of color. Sauté the vegetables briefly before adding the shrimp to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).