If you are a fan of bold, zesty flavors combined with a rich and creamy texture, you are absolutely going to love this Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe. It’s the perfect way to elevate simple shrimp into a luscious spread or a flavorful topping that brings your dishes to life. This recipe combines the bright citrus punch of lemon with the aromatic warmth of garlic and fresh parsley, all wrapped up in buttery goodness that melts in your mouth. Whether you spread it on toast, dollop it over grilled seafood, or mix it into pasta, this shrimp butter is a game-changer you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in layering the flavors and textures that make this Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe so memorable. From the richness of the butter to the freshness of parsley, every component is essential to create that irresistible balance.
- 1/2 lb (8 oz) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides the star protein with subtle sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: The creamy base that carries all the flavors gracefully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the garlic perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the butter with a pungent aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Offers a smoky warmth for extra complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to round out and enhance flavors.
How to Make Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by chopping the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. Aim for a coarser chop to keep some texture—this will make the shrimp stand out beautifully in the buttery mix without turning into a paste. The balance of the shrimp’s tender chew against the creamy butter is part of what makes this recipe so delightful.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a small skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering, then add the minced garlic. Cook it gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the fragrance fills your kitchen. Be sure to watch carefully so the garlic doesn’t brown or burn; you want it soft and aromatic, which will infuse the olive oil perfectly.
Step 3: Combine with Butter
Transfer the softened butter to a medium mixing bowl. Pour in the garlic-infused olive oil and stir together until fully combined. This step is where the rich, garlicky flavor starts to develop, creating the luscious foundation of the shrimp butter.
Step 4: Add Shrimp and Seasonings
Fold the chopped shrimp gently into the butter mixture, making sure each piece gets coated. Then add the lemon juice, fresh parsley, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. This is where the burst of bright citrus and herbal freshness weave through the richness and seasoning.
Step 5: Chill for Best Texture (Optional)
For a beautifully firm, sliceable butter, spoon the mixture onto plastic wrap or parchment paper and shape it into a log. Place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This chilling step enhances presentation and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, though you can serve it immediately if you’re eager to dig in.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe is now ready to shine. Whether you’re spreading it on crusty grilled bread, melting it over seafood, or mixing it into pasta, this buttery shrimp delight will make every bite extraordinary.
How to Serve Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or a light dusting of smoked paprika over your shrimp butter just before serving. A fresh lemon wedge on the side can add a nice touch for guests who want an extra burst of citrus.
Side Dishes
This shrimp butter pairs wonderfully with a host of sides like crusty artisan bread, garlic-rubbed grilled baguette slices, zesty lemon pasta, or even roasted vegetables. It also makes an excellent companion to simple rice or quinoa dishes to soak up all the buttery goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try rolling the chilled shrimp butter into little balls and skewering them on cocktail picks as an appetizer. Or gently melt it over fresh steamed shellfish or grilled fish for an instant gourmet touch. It’s also amazing dolloped onto a baked potato or stirred into a warm risotto for decadent flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep wonderfully for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy it fresh with minimal fuss.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious shrimp butter longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, it can last for up to 1 month. Just be sure to thaw it slowly in the fridge before use to maintain texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently by melting the desired amount slowly in a microwave or over low heat on the stovetop. Avoid high heat to prevent separating the butter. This way, every serving will be silky smooth and full of that fresh garlic and lemon flavor.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?
This Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe is designed for cooked shrimp to preserve the right texture and avoid overcooking during preparation. If using raw shrimp, cook them first and let them cool before starting the recipe.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
Smoked paprika is optional but recommended for a subtle smoky depth. If you prefer a cleaner, brighter flavor, you can leave it out without losing the essence of the dish.
Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use vegan or dairy-free butter alternatives to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets. Just make sure to choose one that is firm when chilled for the best texture.
How long can I keep the shrimp butter in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the shrimp butter will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Beyond that, flavors may diminish and spoilage risk increases.
What dishes pair best with this shrimp butter?
This Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, pasta, or even as a luxurious addition to baked potatoes and rice bowls.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about combining familiar ingredients in a way that feels both elegant and accessible. This Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe brings together the brightness of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the lushness of butter to create a versatile, crowd-pleasing treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how effortlessly it elevates your meals to a new level of deliciousness.
Print
Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter with Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cup (approximately 1 serving as spread or condiment)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Shrimp Butter is a flavorful and versatile spread made by combining cooked shrimp with softened butter, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and seasonings. Perfect for adding a burst of savory seafood taste to grilled bread, crackers, pasta, or seafood dishes, this shrimp-infused butter can be served immediately or chilled to enhance its texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 lb (8 oz) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Chop the cooked shrimp into small pieces, but avoid mincing them too finely to retain some texture in the butter.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Combine with Butter: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with the sautéed garlic and olive oil, stirring until evenly blended.
- Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Incorporate the chopped shrimp into the butter mixture and stir to distribute evenly.
- Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Mix in the lemon juice, fresh parsley, smoked paprika if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill (Optional): For a firmer consistency, shape the shrimp butter into a log using plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. It can be served immediately if preferred.
- Serve: Enjoy the shrimp butter spread on grilled bread, crackers, or used as a flavorful addition melted over fish, shrimp, or pasta.
Notes
- Using cooked shrimp simplifies preparation and keeps the shrimp tender.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Chilling the butter helps it firm up and enhances sliceability.
- Serve as a flavorful spread or melting sauce to complement various seafood dishes.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
