Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, sliced

Highlighted under: Spring Seasonal Food Collection

As the warmer weather rolls in, I love to embrace lighter, yet satisfying dishes like Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp. This recipe is a delightful combination of tender shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, which complements the bright flavors of spring vegetables. I've perfected this dish to ensure the shrimp are succulent and infused with fresh herbs, making it a family favorite. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up a gourmet dinner that's not only impressive but also incredibly easy to whip up!

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:57:35.234Z

I remember the first time I made this Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp for my family. The aroma of garlic sautéing in butter filled the kitchen, and you could just feel the anticipation in the air. Using fresh shrimp ensures they cook quickly and remain juicy, while the addition of seasonal vegetables adds a pop of color and flavor to the dish.

One tip I've found to elevate this recipe is to finish the shrimp with a splash of lemon juice right before serving. It brightens the whole dish and enhances the garlic flavor. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds as soon as they take the first bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy evenings
The rich garlic butter sauce is irresistible
Packed with seasonal vegetables for a fresh touch

Ingredient Spotlight: Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. Opt for large, fresh shrimp, ideally wild-caught for the best flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild smell. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking, as this prevents rubbery textures. Taste and texture will significantly improve when you use high-quality shrimp in the garlic butter sauce.

The key to perfectly cooked shrimp lies in timing. When sautéing, they should only take about 2-3 minutes to cook until they turn a vibrant pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough shrimp, so remain attentive. If needed, test a piece at the 2-minute mark to gauge doneness. The shrimp should bend slightly but not curl tightly.

Vegetable Variations

While asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper offer a delightful spring profile, feel free to customize this dish with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Snap peas, zucchini, or even baby spinach can add beautiful colors and textures. If you're utilizing harder vegetables like carrots or broccoli, consider blanching them briefly before sautéing to ensure they cook through without losing crunch.

Adding vegetables not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also contributes to a range of flavors and nutrients. I love incorporating a splash of fresh lemon juice at the end for acidity, which brightens up the entire dish. As you play with ingredients, remember to maintain a balance of textures and flavors to keep each bite interesting.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving this Garlic Butter Shrimp over rice or pasta creates a satisfying meal, but you could also pair it with a refreshing salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Try garnishing with additional parsley or grated Parmesan for a gourmet touch. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the heat and flavor profile.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider storing the shrimp and vegetables separately to prevent sogginess. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and gently reheat on the stovetop to maintain texture. For longer storage, the shrimp can be frozen cooked; just ensure it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, sliced

Instructions

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the asparagus and bell pepper, sautéing for about 3 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they start to soften. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the shrimp. Add lemon juice and parsley, tossing everything together. Serve immediately with your choice of rice or pasta.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while it cooks. You can also use a mix of different vegetables based on seasonal availability.

Making It a Meal

To transform this delightful shrimp dish into a complete meal, consider adding a side of quinoa or a citrus-infused couscous. Both options complement the buttery garlic flavors without overshadowing the shrimp. If you prefer a low-carb option, serve it on a bed of zucchini noodles for a light, yet filling alternative.

For an indulgent twist, serve alongside a rich and creamy alfredo sauce. Simply prepare the alfredo as usual, then mix in the sautéed shrimp and vegetables. The combination of flavors is sure to impress while still being relatively simple to put together.

Fresh Herbs and Seasoning Swaps

The use of fresh parsley in this recipe brightens the overall flavor and balances the richness of the garlic butter. However, you can substitute with fresh basil or cilantro if those herbs are more appealing or available. Each herb will impart its unique aroma and taste, allowing for subtle customization.

If you're looking to enhance the dish further, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth while cooking the shrimp. This not only adds depth to the sauce but also creates a wonderful aroma as the alcohol evaporates. Adjust the cooking time slightly to allow any added liquids to reduce properly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use olive oil or vegan butter for a lighter, dairy-free option.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking as they can become rubbery.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the vegetables and shrimp in advance for quicker cooking.