Dinner

Sautéed Shrimp Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Name: Sautéed Shrimp Recipe – Great Meal Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 lb jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 Juice of lemon; 1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley

Barbara Brito August 12, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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As I stood in my kitchen one fine afternoon, the sun spilling in through the window, I thought about what delightful dish could grace my table. I had a craving for something light yet satisfying. That’s when sautéed shrimp came to my mind, and I knew exactly what I wanted to pair it with: a zesty Italian pasta salad. This combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant pasta would be a hit, perfect for any gathering or just a casual dinner.

What is Sautéed Shrimp?

Sautéed shrimp is a simple yet elegant dish that often steals the spotlight at dinner parties. The technique of sautéing allows for the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through while getting a gorgeous color. It doesn’t just taste good; the aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, making even the pickiest eaters curious about what’s cooking.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to whip up this delightful dish:

1 lb jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, finely minced

Seasoning:

1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle heat kick)
Juice of 1 lemon (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley (adds a fresh, vibrant flavor)

How to Make Sautéed Shrimp?

The process is straightforward. With a few simple steps, you will have flavorful sautéed shrimp ready to serve. Let’s dive into the details!

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Remove any shell remnants and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that lovely sear that we all want. If the shrimp is wet, it will steam instead of sauté.

Step 2: Heat the Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. There’s something soothing about watching butter melt; it tells you that deliciousness is on the way. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, you’re ready to add flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it around for about 30 seconds to a minute. The goal is to get it fragrant without browning too much. The aroma alone is worth the effort, trust me on this one.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Now, it’s time to add the star of the show—the shrimp! Make sure to spread them out in one even layer to ensure they cook properly. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they start to turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Season the Shrimp

Once you’ve flipped the shrimp, sprinkle in the Italian herb blend, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling adventurous). Stir gently to coat all the shrimp in those lovely spices.

Step 6: Add Lemon Juice and Parsley

After another 2-3 minutes of cooking, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and toss in the freshly chopped parsley. This brightens up the flavors brilliantly. Stir everything until well combined, and cook for another minute.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Once the shrimp is fully cooked (they should be opaque all the way through), it’s time to plate! Serve immediately. I love to arrange the shrimp over a bed of zesty Italian pasta salad; that’s my secret weapon for balance.

Notes

Here are a few tips and tricks to elevate your sautéed shrimp game:

Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp. The difference in flavor is noticeable.
Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly. Aim for a light pink color and avoid rubbery texture.
Customize the Heat: Adjust spicy seasonings based on your personal preference. A touch of crushed red pepper can elevate without overwhelming.
Herbs: Fresh herbs can enhance flavor. Feel free to swap parsley for basil or cilantro for a unique twist.
Perfect Pairings: This shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, particularly the Italian pasta salad mentioned.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers—lucky you! Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just reheat gently in a skillet to prevent overcooking.

Nutrition Information

A serving of sautéed shrimp can be a healthy choice. With the ingredients listed, you get a dish that is rich in protein and low in carbs. Here’s a rough breakdown for one serving of sautéed shrimp (about 1/4 of the recipe):

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving sautéed shrimp, you have options. Here’s a list of delightful ways to enjoy this dish:

Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta for a filling meal. The creamy texture of pasta balances the lightness of shrimp nicely.
Salad: Toss with mixed greens for a refreshing light lunch. The shrimp adds protein and flavor to any salad.
Tacos: Assemble shrimp tacos with fresh veggies and a squeeze of lime. You’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Rice: Pair with jasmine or brown rice. The flavors of the shrimp blend beautifully with a hint of citrus.
Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread. Use it to soak up the delicious buttery garlic sauce left on your plate.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Sautéed Shrimp?

If shrimp isn’t your style, here are some great substitutes to consider:

Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, chicken works well with the same seasonings and cooks up nicely.
Tofu: Use firm tofu for a vegetarian option. It absorbs flavors well when marinated.
Scallops: Sautéed scallops can offer a sweet seafood alternative with a quicker cooking time.
Fish Fillets: Any firm white fish, like tilapia or cod, can be an excellent swap. Adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness.
Mushrooms: For a vegan option, opt for hearty mushrooms like portobellos. They provide a satisfying texture.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Sautéed shrimp isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that combines simplicity and flavor beautifully. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a taco, or with that zesty Italian pasta salad, each bite can transport you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. So grab your ingredients and dive into this delectable creation. Here’s to good food, great company, and many more culinary adventures ahead! Happy cooking!

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Sautéed Shrimp Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Author: Barbara Brito Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 261

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

As I stood in my kitchen one fine afternoon, the sun spilling in through the window, I thought about what delightful dish could grace my table. I had a craving for something light yet satisfying. That's when sautéed shrimp came to my mind, and I knew exactly what I wanted to pair it with: a zesty Italian pasta salad. This combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant pasta would be a hit, perfect for any gathering or just a casual dinner.