Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
Embark on a culinary adventure with our Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp, a dish that promises to delight your taste buds while keeping your carb count in check. This recipe is not just a feast for your palate but also aligns perfectly with your keto diet goals, providing a luxurious combination of high-quality proteins and healthy fats. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or a show-stopping main course, this garlic butter shrimp will emerge as a new favorite in your low-carb repertoire.
Recipe Details
My journey with this Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp began as a quest to recreate a restaurant favorite while keeping it within the keto-friendly zone. The magic lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the depth of flavors they create when combined. Each succulent shrimp is enveloped in a heavenly sauce of garlic and butter, with a hint of citrus to cut through the richness.
When it comes to keto, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s low in carbs, high in fats, and contains a moderate amount of protein—ideal for maintaining ketosis. Moreover, it’s an excellent way to enjoy seafood, which is often underrepresented in keto meal plans. Shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients like iodine and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a smart choice for a health-conscious diet.
The Method
Creating this dish is as much about technique as it is about the quality of ingredients. Begin by patting the shrimp dry—this is crucial for achieving that perfect sear. When cooking the shrimp, be sure to lay them in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures each one cooks evenly and gets a nice golden color.
The garlic should be minced finely to distribute its flavor throughout the sauce, and added to the butter just as it melts to infuse the fat with its aroma. When adding the chicken broth and lemon juice, stir well to deglaze the pan, allowing the liquid to pick up all the delicious browned bits that hold an immense depth of flavor.
As the shrimp are returned to the skillet, they should be tossed gently in the sauce to coat them without breaking their delicate texture. The final touch of fresh parsley and lemon zest adds a burst of freshness, while the Parmesan cheese, if you choose to use it, brings a savory note that complements the dish beautifully.
Variations
Spicy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
For those who enjoy a kick, adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can transform this dish into a spicy delicacy. The heat from the spices will balance the richness of the butter and add another layer of flavor.
Herb-Infused Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
Infuse the butter with a selection of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to create an aromatic twist on the classic recipe. The herbs will lend their fragrant notes to the sauce, making each bite a complex taste experience.
Citrusy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
Enhance the lemony aspect by incorporating orange or lime zest along with the lemon. The additional citrus zests will brighten the dish and offer a refreshing contrast to the savory garlic and butter.
Substitutions
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a bit of extra seasoning can serve as a suitable substitute. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with ghee or coconut oil. And for those who don’t consume alcohol, the white wine can be swapped out for additional broth with a splash of white wine vinegar.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How can I ensure my shrimp doesn’t turn rubbery? Cook the shrimp until just pink and opaque. Overcooking is the main reason for rubbery shrimp.
What can I serve with Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp? This dish pairs well with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
Can I store leftovers of this dish? Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! Prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and reheat gently before serving.
## Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
This Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp is a succulent and flavorful dish that’s low in carbohydrates and packed with healthy fats and protein. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. The shrimp are pan-seared to perfection and coated in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
**Servings:** 4
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Cuisine:** Seafood
**Category:** Dinner
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound (453g) of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
– 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1/2 teaspoon (2g) red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 2 tablespoons (30g) fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup (28g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
**Method:**
1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant for about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through.
6. Remove from heat, stir in the lemon zest, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
**Calories:** 238 per serving
**Carbohydrates:** 3g
**Net Carbs:** 2g
**Fiber:** 1g
**Fat:** 15g
**Protein:** 24g
**Equipment Used:**
– Large skillet
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Knife and cutting board
– Zester
– Paper towels
**Other Notes:**
– For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or additional olive oil.
– Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Cook just until pink.
– This dish pairs beautifully with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a complete keto-friendly meal.