Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Delights

I love making garlic butter shrimp for spring dinners because it’s incredibly delicious and quick to prepare. The combination of fresh shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen. Paired with spring vegetables, this dish not only delights the palate but also celebrates the vibrant flavors of the season. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, and the best part is how easy it is to make—just a few ingredients come together to create something truly special.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T22:49:36.053Z

In my quest to create the perfect spring dinner, I've found that garlic butter shrimp is my go-to dish. The first time I prepared it, I was amazed at how simply sautéing shrimp with butter, garlic, and a touch of lemon zest could transform a regular meal into something extraordinary. The key is to get the shrimp just right—cooking them briefly until they’re pink and tender, which keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Using fresh, seasonal vegetables elevates the dish even more. I like to incorporate asparagus or snap peas for a pop of color and texture. This not only adds nutrients but also makes each bite a delightful mix of flavors. It’s become a favorite in our home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Rich garlic flavor that perfectly complements succulent shrimp.
Versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or on its own.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter

The key to achieving a rich garlic flavor lies in the timing of how you sauté the minced garlic. You want to cook it just until it turns fragrant, about 30 seconds over medium heat. If you let it go too long, it could burn and turn bitter, ruining the delicate balance of flavors in your dish. I suggest using fresh garlic for the best taste, as jarred garlic often lacks the same aromatic intensity.

Butter not only provides a luxurious mouthfeel but it also acts as a carrier for the garlic's flavor, enhancing every bite. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you could substitute part of the butter with olive oil, but I recommend using at least some butter for that signature richness. The combination of butter and shrimp creates a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp and vegetables.

Choosing and Preparing Your Shrimp

When selecting shrimp, opt for large or extra-large shrimp for a satisfying bite. Ensure that they are deveined and peeled to save preparation time. Fresh shrimp will have a sweet, briny aroma; however, frozen shrimp can also work well—just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the cooking process a bit tricky.

Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but timing is crucial. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so watch them closely! Once they turn pink and opaque, that’s your cue to take them off the heat. I recommend cooking them in batches if you're preparing a larger quantity to avoid crowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to begin your shrimp dinner:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have all the ingredients, you can start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your garlic butter shrimp:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the asparagus and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set it aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Return the asparagus to the skillet, add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then toss everything together. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Enjoy this quick and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender. You can also substitute other seasonal vegetables if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic butter shrimp pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy rice or al dente pasta, which help soak up the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of sautéed greens or spiralized vegetables like zucchini. Add a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to squeeze over their servings, as this will enhance the dish's overall brightness.

If you're entertaining, consider offering a simple salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the shrimp. A crisp cucumber salad or a fresh arugula salad tossed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar would complement this dish nicely.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can become tough when reheated, I recommend gently reheating them in a skillet over low heat with a tiny bit of butter—just until warmed through. This will help maintain their texture rather than zapping them in the microwave, which can easily lead to overcooking.

While it's not ideal to freeze garlic butter shrimp due to texture changes, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Portion them out into smaller containers, and use them within a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, using the same method mentioned above to ensure the best possible results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use alternative oils instead of butter?

Yes, olive oil or avocado oil can be used for a lighter version.