Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite seafood dish: pan roasted shrimp with paprika lemon butter sauce! This dish is a flavor explosion, combining the richness of butter with the bright zing of fresh lemon and that smoky kick from paprika. It’s simple yet elegant, perfect for impressing guests or just a cozy dinner at home. I remember the first time I made this; the shrimp turned out so succulent and juicy, and the aroma filled my kitchen like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite! So, if you’re ready to indulge in a delicious seafood experience, let’s dive right into how to make this delightful dish!
Ingredients for Pan Roasted Shrimp with Paprika Lemon Butter Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish sing! Here’s what you’ll need:
1 pound large shrimp – Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for an effortless cooking experience. I love getting fresh shrimp, but you can also use frozen if that’s what you’ve got!
4 tablespoons unsalted butter – This is where the magic happens! It adds that rich, creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and adding a lovely flavor foundation.
2 cloves garlic – Minced, of course! Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This gives the shrimp a warm, smoky flavor. Feel free to adjust if you like it spicier!
1 lemon – You’ll need the juice for that zesty brightness, and don’t forget to zest a bit for an extra punch if you’re feeling fancy!
Salt and pepper to taste – Simple but essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors.
Fresh parsley – Chopped, for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness to finish off the dish perfectly!
Now that you have everything lined up, you’re one step closer to enjoying this delightful dish! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Pan Roasted Shrimp with Paprika Lemon Butter Sauce
Alright, let’s get you cooking up this mouthwatering pan roasted shrimp with paprika lemon butter sauce! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
First things first, grab your trusty skillet and heat it over medium heat. You’ll want to add in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. The key here is medium heat—this helps the butter melt slowly without burning. You’ll see it start to bubble gently, and that’s when you know it’s ready for the next step!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Now, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds to a minute. You’re looking for that heavenly aroma to waft through your kitchen, but be careful! You don’t want it to brown too much—just until it’s fragrant and golden. Trust me, this will elevate the dish like nothing else!
Step 3: Add Shrimp and Season
Time for the star of the show! Add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, making sure they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and that delicious smoked paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn that beautiful pink and opaque color. You’ll know they’re done when they curl slightly and are firm to the touch!
Step 4: Add Lemon Butter
Now, let’s bring it all together! Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter right into the skillet. Stir everything together until the butter melts and creates a luscious sauce that coats the shrimp. The citrusy brightness combined with the rich butter is just divine!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to plate this beauty! Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color. I love serving this dish with crusty bread to soak up all that amazing sauce, or over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal. Trust me, your tastebuds are in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a speedy weeknight dinner.
Rich Flavors: The combination of buttery richness, zesty lemon, and smoky paprika creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the shrimp and healthy fats from the olive oil and butter, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Versatile: Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it fits perfectly into various meal plans.
Impressive Yet Simple: It looks and tastes like a gourmet meal, but it’s so easy to make that you’ll feel like a pro chef in your own kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make sure your pan roasted shrimp with paprika lemon butter sauce turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips:
Choose Fresh Shrimp: If you can get your hands on fresh shrimp, do it! Fresh shrimp have a sweeter, more delicate flavor. If you’re using frozen, just make sure to thaw them properly beforehand. A quick soak in cold water does the trick!
Don’t Overcook: This is key! Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Adjust the Spice: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more smoked paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go, and find that perfect balance that suits your palate.
Use Quality Butter: Opt for unsalted butter for this recipe to control the saltiness. A high-quality butter makes a huge difference in flavor, so don’t skimp on this!
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to toss in some red pepper flakes for extra heat or even a splash of white wine when you add the lemon juice for a deeper flavor profile. Get creative, and make it your own!
Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a burst of freshness. You can also try adding lemon zest or even some capers for an extra pop!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning and delicious dish that’ll impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Pan Roasted Shrimp with Paprika Lemon Butter Sauce
Let’s talk about the nutrition in this delightful dish! It’s always good to know what you’re fueling your body with, right? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving for this pan roasted shrimp with paprika lemon butter sauce:
Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 180mg
As you can see, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a satisfying meal. Plus, the low carbohydrate content keeps it light, perfect for any time of day! Enjoy this guilt-free seafood treat without holding back!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be a great option, especially if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. I usually place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or let them sit in the fridge overnight. This helps retain their texture and flavor. When using frozen shrimp, you might need to cook them for an extra minute or so, just to ensure they’re heated through. But trust me, they’ll still turn out delicious!
What can I serve with this dish?
This pan roasted shrimp with paprika lemon butter sauce is super versatile! I love serving it with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all that incredible sauce—it’s like a little piece of heaven! You can also toss it over a bed of pasta or rice for a heartier meal. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully. And don’t forget, some roasted veggies or a side of garlic sautéed spinach would complement this dish perfectly!
Can I adjust the spice level?
You bet! If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of smoked paprika. You can start with half a teaspoon and taste as you go. For those who love a bit of a kick, why not add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes? Just remember to start small—you can always add more if you want that extra heat! Cooking is all about finding that perfect balance that suits your palate, so don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your liking!
Pan roasted shrimp with paprika lemon butter sauce is a flavorful seafood dish that combines the richness of butter with the zest of lemon and a kick from paprika.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Stir in lemon juice and remaining butter until melted.
I share easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking simple, fun, and totally satisfying. Let's get in the kitchen and create something delicious together!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!