- Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus spears to the baking dish for a full meal.
- Roast alongside shrimp for 12–15 minutes until tender.
6. Serve Over Something Delicious
- Over cooked rice, pasta, or quinoa.
- With crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
Section 4: Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp
- Use fresh shrimp: Avoid frozen if possible, but if frozen, thaw fully in the refrigerator.
- Don’t overcrowd the dish: Overlapping shrimp will steam rather than bake, losing texture.
- Uniform size: Use shrimp of similar size for even cooking.
- Watch the oven: Shrimp cook fast; check frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh lemon juice: Always prefer fresh over bottled for brightness.
- Prep ahead: Make the butter sauce in advance to streamline cooking.
- Use high-quality butter: It greatly impacts the richness of the dish.
Section 5: Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Calories and Macronutrients (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: ~25 g
- Fat: ~12 g (mostly from butter)
- Carbohydrates: ~2 g
- Fiber: <1 g
- Sodium: Varies with added salt
Health Benefits
- Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories.
- Rich source of vitamins and minerals like selenium, vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Garlic supports immune health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
Considerations
- Butter adds saturated fat; use in moderation if watching fat intake.
- Shrimp can be allergenic; be cautious if cooking for sensitive individuals.
Section 6: Side Dish Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairings
- Steamed rice or coconut rice to soak up sauce.
- Angel hair pasta or linguine tossed with olive oil and herbs.
- Garlic bread or baguette slices toasted with butter and herbs.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
Salads and Lighter Options
- Crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Cucumber and tomato salad with lemon and olive oil.
- Quinoa or couscous salad with fresh herbs.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
- Dry white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay.
- Sparkling wine for celebrations.
- Light, crisp beers like pilsners or lagers.
- Non-alcoholic: sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal teas.
Section 7: Storage and Leftover Tips
Storing Cooked Shrimp
- Cool to room temperature quickly.
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Avoid leaving shrimp at room temperature over 2 hours.
Reheating
- Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or lemon butter sauce.
- Avoid microwave reheating, which can overcook shrimp.
- Use leftovers cold in salads or wraps.
Freezing
- Cooked shrimp is best eaten fresh.
- If freezing, wrap tightly and freeze no more than 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
Section 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw thoroughly and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
Q2: How do I know when shrimp is perfectly cooked?
When shrimp turns opaque and pink with a slight curl, it’s done. Overcooking makes shrimp tough.
Q3: Can I prepare the sauce ahead?
Absolutely. Make the garlic lemon butter sauce in advance and store refrigerated up to 2 days.
Q4: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, or substitute with fresh herbs.
Q5: Can I grill the shrimp with this sauce?
Yes, brush shrimp with the sauce and grill for 2-3 minutes per side for a smoky variation.
Conclusion: Why Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp Should Be in Your Recipe Arsenal
This Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can create a dish that feels special. Its balance of buttery richness, fresh citrus, and garlic pungency elevates shrimp into an unforgettable meal.
The recipe is flexible and customizable to your tastes and dietary needs. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests. Plus, the minimal cleanup makes it ideal for hassle-free cooking.
By mastering this recipe, you’ll gain a versatile base for seafood dinners that can be easily adapted, paired, and enjoyed year-round. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or fresh veggies, this shrimp will always be a crowd-pleaser.
So grab some fresh shrimp, butter, and lemons, and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you.
If you want, I can also help with printable recipe cards, shopping lists, or variations for keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets. Just ask!
Bon appétit! 🦐🧄🍋🧈
