Craving Buttery Garlic Shrimp? 🧈🧄🍤 Do You Call Them Shrimp or Prawns? 🤷🏽‍♂️

Buttery garlic shrimp are a timeless seafood favorite, adored for their simplicity and irresistible flavor. Whether you call them shrimp or prawns, this dish is all about succulent, tender morsels bathed in a rich, garlic-infused butter sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer, this recipe will have you savoring every last bite.

Shrimp or Prawns: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into the recipe, you might be wondering about the difference between shrimp and prawns. In culinary terms, the two are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences:

Shrimp: Generally smaller with a more curved body and a pronounced bend in the tail. They are found in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
Prawns: Typically larger with a straighter body and a more noticeable segmenting in their legs. Prawns are mostly found in freshwater.
Regardless of the terminology, both shrimp and prawns are delicious and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.

Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp or prawns, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp/Prawns:

Pat the shrimp or prawns dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a nice sear.
2. Cook the Garlic Butter:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
3. Sauté the Shrimp/Prawns:

Add the shrimp or prawns to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp and prawns can become rubbery if left on the heat too long.
4. Finish and Serve:

Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp or prawns and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp/Prawns
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp and prawns cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to ensure they are tender and juicy.

Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference, or leave them out entirely for a milder dish.

Why This Recipe Works
Buttery garlic shrimp are the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich, savory taste of butter with the aromatic punch of garlic. The quick cooking time ensures that the shrimp or prawns remain tender and flavorful, while the lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish that balances the richness.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways: over pasta, alongside a fresh salad, or even as a stand-alone appetizer. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet remains straightforward.

So, whether you’re a fan of shrimp or prawns, this buttery garlic recipe is sure to satisfy your seafood cravings and become a go-to in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the ease of preparation, and let each bite transport you to a seafood paradise!