Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay Recipe

Butterflies fluttered in my stomach as I presented this dish to my family for the first time. I’d been experimenting in the kitchen, aiming for a weeknight meal that was both quick and bursting with flavor. The aroma alone, a tantalizing blend of zesty lemon, rich butter, and the unmistakable savory-sweet spice of Old Bay, had already won half the battle. As they took their first bites of the succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp, a hush fell over the table, broken only by contented murmurs and the clinking of forks. My son, usually a picky eater, declared it his new favorite, and even my husband, a man of few culinary compliments, asked for seconds. This Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay isn’t just a recipe; it’s a weeknight wonder, a flavor explosion, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. It’s incredibly easy to make, ready in minutes, and tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and sheer deliciousness of this dish – it’s a true culinary gem.

Ingredients

To create this symphony of flavor, you’ll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of zesty, buttery, and savory notes that define this Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay recipe. Let’s delve into each ingredient and understand why it’s essential for this dish:

• 1 pound Large Shrimp, Peeled and Deveined: The star of our show, shrimp should be fresh or high-quality frozen, thawed completely. Opt for large shrimp (21-25 count per pound) as they cook quickly and remain succulent. Peeled and deveined shrimp save you valuable prep time and ensure a clean, enjoyable eating experience. The natural sweetness of shrimp is the perfect canvas for the vibrant flavors we’re about to introduce. When selecting shrimp, look for a firm texture and a bright, translucent appearance. Avoid shrimp that smells overly fishy or has a mushy texture, as these are signs of less-than-fresh seafood. Properly sourced shrimp is key to a truly delicious dish. For frozen shrimp, ensure it is thoroughly thawed under cold running water or in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Patting the shrimp dry before cooking is also crucial, as it helps them to sear properly and prevents them from steaming in the pan.
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Butter is the heart of the luscious sauce that coats the shrimp. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, especially since Old Bay seasoning already contains salt. The rich, creamy texture of butter melts beautifully, creating a velvety base for the lemon and Old Bay flavors to meld into. Using high-quality butter will elevate the taste of the sauce, adding a depth of flavor that margarine or lower-quality butter simply cannot replicate. The butter not only contributes to the flavor but also helps to create a beautiful golden-brown sear on the shrimp as it cooks. It’s important to use unsalted butter so you can precisely control the salt level of the dish, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced.
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable for this recipe. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, zesty flavor and aroma of fresh lemons. The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter, adding a refreshing tang that brightens the entire dish. Lemon juice not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the shrimp slightly, enhancing its texture. The citrus notes of lemon are a classic pairing with seafood, and in this recipe, it perfectly complements the Old Bay seasoning. Make sure to use real lemons and squeeze the juice just before you are ready to cook to capture the most vibrant flavor. You can also zest a bit of lemon peel to add an extra layer of lemon intensity to the dish, if desired.
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning: Old Bay is the secret weapon that takes this shrimp dish from ordinary to extraordinary. This iconic seasoning blend, with its signature mix of celery salt, paprika, and other spices, provides a unique savory-sweet flavor that is synonymous with seafood, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Old Bay adds a complex layer of flavor that is both warm and slightly spicy, without being overwhelmingly hot. It perfectly complements the lemon and butter, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is incredibly addictive. While Old Bay is readily available in most grocery stores, ensure you are using authentic Old Bay seasoning for the best results. No other spice blend quite captures the distinctive flavor profile of Old Bay.
• 2 cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic depth to the dish. Minced garlic infuses the butter sauce with its characteristic savory flavor, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. Fresh garlic is preferred over pre-minced garlic in jars, as it has a brighter, more robust flavor. The garlic mellows slightly as it cooks in the butter, becoming sweet and fragrant. It’s important to mince the garlic finely to ensure it cooks evenly and releases its flavor throughout the sauce. If you are sensitive to the strong flavor of garlic, you can use one clove instead of two, or roast the garlic beforehand for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished dish. Parsley not only serves as a beautiful garnish but also adds a subtle, clean flavor that complements the richness of the butter and the spice of the Old Bay. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) is generally preferred over curly parsley for its more robust flavor, but either type will work. Chopping the parsley just before serving ensures it is at its freshest and brightest. Parsley is a classic garnish for seafood dishes, and it adds a final touch of elegance and freshness to this Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes (for a touch of heat): If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the butter sauce. Red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick that complements the other flavors without overpowering them. Start with a small pinch (about ¼ teaspoon) and adjust to your preference. The heat from the red pepper flakes adds another dimension to the dish, balancing the richness of the butter and the zesty lemon. It’s a completely optional addition, but for those who appreciate a little spice, it can elevate the dish even further.

Instructions

This Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay recipe is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The magic lies in the simplicity of the steps and the speed at which the shrimp cooks. Follow these detailed instructions to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen:

1. Prepare the Shrimp (if needed): If you are using frozen shrimp, ensure it is completely thawed. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place it in a colander under cold running water for about 5-10 minutes, or until it is no longer frozen. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as it helps the shrimp to sear properly in the pan and prevents it from steaming, which can result in rubbery shrimp. Drying the shrimp removes excess moisture, allowing for a beautiful golden-brown crust to form when it comes into contact with the hot butter. Set the prepared shrimp aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Melt the Butter in a Large Skillet: Place a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely. As the butter melts, it will become fragrant and begin to shimmer. Be careful not to overheat the butter and let it brown too much at this stage, as burnt butter can have a bitter taste. The melted butter forms the base of the flavorful sauce and provides the fat necessary for cooking the shrimp and developing a rich, savory flavor. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding, which can also lead to steaming instead of searing.
3. Add Garlic and Sauté: Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Stir the garlic frequently to prevent it from burning. Sautéing the garlic in the butter releases its aromatic oils and infuses the butter with its pungent flavor. The garlic should be cooked until it is fragrant but not browned or burnt, as burnt garlic can also impart a bitter taste to the dish. Keep a close eye on the garlic as it cooks quickly in hot butter.
4. Add Old Bay Seasoning and Lemon Juice: After sautéing the garlic, stir in the Old Bay seasoning and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together to combine the spices and lemon juice with the melted butter and garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their full flavor. The heat from the skillet will activate the spices in the Old Bay seasoning, intensifying their aroma and flavor. The lemon juice will deglaze the pan slightly, lifting any browned bits from the bottom and adding its bright, acidic notes to the sauce. This step is crucial for building layers of flavor in the sauce.
5. Add Shrimp and Cook: Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; if necessary, cook the shrimp in batches. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the shrimp and the heat of your skillet. Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it’s important not to overcook it, as overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. You’ll know the shrimp is cooked when it changes from translucent gray to opaque pink and curls slightly. Flip the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking on both sides.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the shrimp is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Toss the shrimp gently to coat them evenly with the sauce and parsley. Serve immediately while the shrimp is hot and the sauce is luscious. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serving the dish immediately ensures the shrimp is at its most tender and flavorful, and the sauce is still warm and vibrant.

Nutrition Facts

This Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay is not only delicious but also offers a good source of protein and essential nutrients. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes:

• Servings: 4
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 30-35 grams (Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein)
• Fat: 15-20 grams (Primarily from butter, mostly saturated fat. Can be reduced by using less butter or substituting part of it with olive oil, though it will alter the flavor slightly.)
• Saturated Fat: 9-12 grams (From butter)
• Cholesterol: 200-250 mg (Shrimp is naturally higher in cholesterol)
• Sodium: 500-700 mg (Varies depending on the amount of Old Bay seasoning used and the inherent sodium in shrimp. Old Bay does contain salt.)
• Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams (Minimal carbohydrates, mostly from lemon juice and spices)
• Fiber: Less than 1 gram (Negligible fiber content)
• Vitamin D: Good source (Shrimp contains Vitamin D)
• Vitamin B12: Excellent source (Shrimp is a good source of Vitamin B12)
• Selenium: Excellent source (Shrimp is rich in selenium, an antioxidant)
• Iodine: Good source (Shrimp is a source of iodine, important for thyroid function)

Important Note: These nutritional values are estimates. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator app or website, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Consider that the actual calorie count might slightly vary depending on the size of the shrimp and the exact amount of butter absorbed. This dish, while flavorful and satisfying, should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

The beauty of this Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay recipe lies in its speed and simplicity. From start to finish, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in a remarkably short amount of time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (This includes thawing shrimp if frozen, peeling and deveining if necessary, mincing garlic, chopping parsley, and juicing the lemon.)
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes (The actual cooking time in the skillet is very quick, as shrimp cooks rapidly.)
• Total Time: 15-17 minutes

This recipe is truly a weeknight winner, perfect for those evenings when you want a delicious and healthy meal on the table in under 20 minutes. The minimal prep work and fast cooking time make it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families. You can even further reduce the prep time by purchasing pre-peeled and deveined shrimp and pre-minced garlic (though fresh garlic is always recommended for the best flavor). The quick cooking time also means that the shrimp retains its tender texture and doesn’t become overcooked.

How to Serve

Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Over Pasta:
  • Linguine or Spaghetti: Toss the cooked shrimp and flavorful butter sauce with linguine or spaghetti for a classic and comforting pasta dish. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful meal.
  • Angel Hair Pasta: The delicate strands of angel hair pasta are perfect for soaking up the light and zesty lemon butter sauce.
  • Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta is another excellent option, offering a slightly different texture and absorbing the sauce wonderfully.
• With Grains:
  • Rice: Serve the shrimp over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The grains provide a neutral base that allows the flavors of the shrimp and sauce to shine.
  • Couscous: Fluffy couscous is a quick-cooking grain that pairs well with the bright flavors of the shrimp.
  • Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a rich and comforting base for the shrimp and sauce, creating a more substantial meal.
• Alongside Vegetables:
  • Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper is a simple and elegant side dish that complements the shrimp beautifully.
  • Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli provides a healthy and vibrant green side that balances the richness of the butter sauce.
  • Sautéed Spinach: Garlic-sautéed spinach is a quick and nutritious side that pairs perfectly with the lemon and Old Bay flavors.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: During summer months, grilled corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness and smoky flavor to the meal.
  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp dish.
• Bread for Sopping:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty baguette or sourdough bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious lemon butter sauce.
  • Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to seafood dishes and enhances the garlicky notes in the shrimp.
• As an Appetizer:
  • Serve smaller portions of the shrimp as a flavorful appetizer at a party or gathering. Provide toothpicks or small forks for easy serving.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay is absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, and overcooking will result in tough, rubbery shrimp. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque and curls slightly. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s cooked through to maintain its tender texture. Err on the side of slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook slightly off the heat. Watching the color change from translucent to opaque is the best indicator of doneness.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley make a significant difference in the overall flavor of the dish. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright zestiness of fresh lemon, and pre-minced garlic often lacks the pungency of freshly minced cloves. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant herbaceous note that dried parsley cannot replicate. Investing in fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the taste of this simple recipe.
3. Adjust Old Bay Seasoning to Your Preference: Old Bay seasoning has a distinctive flavor, and its intensity can vary slightly between brands. Start with the recommended amount (2 tablespoons) and adjust to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more to taste. If you like a stronger Old Bay flavor, you can add a bit more. Remember that Old Bay also contains salt, so be mindful of the overall saltiness of the dish.
4. Add a Splash of White Wine (Optional): For an even richer and more complex sauce, consider adding a splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) to the skillet after sautéing the garlic and before adding the lemon juice and Old Bay. The white wine will deglaze the pan and add another layer of flavor to the sauce. Allow the wine to reduce slightly before proceeding with the rest of the recipe. This is an optional step but can enhance the depth of flavor in the sauce.
5. Make it Spicy (Optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce, as mentioned in the ingredients section. You can also add a dash of hot sauce, such as Tabasco or sriracha, for extra spice. Experiment with different levels of heat to find your perfect balance. For a milder heat, consider using a milder chili flake or a less spicy hot sauce. For a more intense heat, use more red pepper flakes or a hotter variety of hot sauce.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay to help you make this recipe with confidence:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a convenient and perfectly acceptable option. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place it in a colander under cold running water for about 5-10 minutes or thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels after thawing to ensure it sears properly in the pan. Using frozen shrimp can be a great way to have this meal ready even quicker, especially if you keep frozen shrimp on hand.

Q2: I don’t have Old Bay seasoning. Can I substitute it with something else?

A: While Old Bay is the key to the signature flavor of this dish, if you don’t have it on hand, you can create a substitute. Mix together celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. However, it won’t be exactly the same as authentic Old Bay. For a closer approximation, you can also add a pinch of dry mustard and ground cloves to your spice blend. If possible, try to find Old Bay seasoning as it truly makes this recipe special. Many grocery stores carry Old Bay in the spice aisle.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: It’s best to enjoy this Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay fresh, right after cooking. Shrimp is best served immediately for optimal texture and flavor. If you need to prepare components ahead of time, you can mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and juice the lemon in advance. However, cooking the shrimp and making the sauce should be done just before serving for the best results. Reheating cooked shrimp can often lead to a rubbery texture.

Q4: Is this recipe spicy?

A: Buttered Lemon Shrimp with Old Bay is not inherently spicy. Old Bay seasoning has a savory-sweet flavor with a subtle warmth but is not typically considered spicy. However, you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. As mentioned in the tips, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a touch of heat. Start with a small amount of spice and add more to taste until you reach your desired level of spiciness. If you are sensitive to spice, you can omit the red pepper flakes entirely.

Q5: Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

A: While butter is essential for the rich, creamy sauce in this recipe, you can substitute part of the butter with olive oil if you prefer. Using all olive oil will result in a different flavor profile and a less rich sauce, but it is a healthier alternative if you are watching your saturated fat intake. A good compromise could be using 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to retain some of the butter’s richness while reducing the saturated fat content. Keep in mind that butter contributes significantly to the flavor of the sauce, so using it is recommended for the best taste.

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