Introduction
If you are looking for a quick, healthy, and mouth-watering dish that feels restaurant-quality yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach is a perfect choice! Combining succulent shrimp with a flavorful garlic butter sauce and fresh spinach, it’s a dish that’s both indulgent and nourishing. The tender shrimp are cooked to perfection with garlic and butter, giving them a rich, savory taste, while the sautéed spinach adds a wonderful balance with its earthy flavor. Best of all, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner after a long day or planning a light but impressive meal for guests, this recipe will be your go-to. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Sautéed Spinach:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 10 oz fresh spinach (about 6 cups)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant—make sure it doesn’t burn, as it will turn bitter.
Next, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat). Squeeze 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the shrimp and toss well to coat. Once the shrimp are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Keep them warm by covering them with foil.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
Using the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the spinach to the skillet. Cook the spinach, stirring occasionally, until it wilts completely, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle the spinach with 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese for a touch of creamy, salty flavor.
Step 3: Finish the Shrimp
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir the butter into the spinach, letting the flavors of garlic and butter combine thoroughly. This will create a rich, silky finish that coats the spinach beautifully.
Step 4: Plate the Dish
To serve, plate a portion of the sautéed spinach onto each plate, then top with the garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley and arrange lemon wedges on the side for a bright citrus kick. The lemon helps to cut through the richness of the butter, creating a balanced and flavorful experience.
COOKING Note
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn opaque and pink.
- Garlic Timing is Key: Garlic burns easily and can become bitter, so be sure to sauté it only until fragrant before adding other ingredients. Burned garlic can change the entire flavor profile of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach pairs wonderfully with a number of sides. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside quinoa or cauliflower rice. Add a crusty bread for dipping, or even a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to round out the dish.
For beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works perfectly, as the acidity helps to balance the richness of the butter. Alternatively, an iced lemon tea or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon is a great non-alcoholic option.
Tips
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can skip the red pepper flakes. If you love heat, consider adding a bit more or even using chili garlic paste.
- Extra Citrus: If you enjoy a more citrusy flavor, feel free to zest some lemon into the garlic butter sauce for added brightness.
- Add More Veggies: This dish is versatile; you can add cherry tomatoes or sliced mushrooms to the spinach for extra flavor and color.
- Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce before cooking the spinach for a creamier dish.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 520mg
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach is truly a fantastic combination of flavors and textures. The tender shrimp are bursting with garlic-butter goodness, and the sautéed spinach adds a wonderful freshness to the dish. In just 20 minutes, you can create a healthy, restaurant-quality meal that will impress both friends and family. Whether you serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or pair it with a light salad, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
You can easily make this dish dairy-free by replacing the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. It will still be flavorful with the garlic and lemon.
Can I add pasta to this dish?
Definitely! Adding pasta is a great way to make this dish heartier. Just toss cooked pasta (like linguine or spaghetti) into the skillet along with the shrimp and spinach, and you have a complete, comforting meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp during reheating to keep them tender.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
You can substitute spinach with other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula. Just note that tougher greens like kale will take a bit longer to cook.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!