Pan-Fried Shrimp Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

This delicious shrimp dish is made with just a few ingredients and is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal. The butter brings out the sweetness of the shrimp, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang. It's simple, yet packed with flavor!

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 pound peeled and deveined bay shrimp
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, divided
• 1 pinch garlic salt, or to taste
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over high heat.

Step 2: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, in the hot butter until browned, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons of lemon juice, garlic salt, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for about 1 minute, until everything is heated through.

Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	292
Total Fat	24g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	234mg
Sodium	483mg
Total Carbohydrates	0g
Total Sugars	0g
Protein	19g
Vitamin C	4mg
Calcium	42mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	173mg

Servings per recipe: 4

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This Pan-Fried Shrimp recipe is a quick and simple way to prepare succulent shrimp with a burst of lemony, buttery flavor. The recipe involves cooking shrimp in hot butter and seasoning them with garlic, salt, and pepper. Whether you're looking for a fast weeknight meal or a simple appetizer for your dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

History and Origins

While shrimp is a popular ingredient in various cuisines around the world, the method of pan-frying them with butter and lemon is widely associated with American coastal cooking. This dish likely draws inspiration from the southern United States, where seafood, particularly shrimp, plays a major role in local diets. The ease and speed of cooking make it perfect for busy households while still delivering a satisfying, flavorful dish. In fact, many dishes of shrimp are traditionally prepared on both coasts of the U.S., with slight variations depending on regional tastes and available spices.

Regional Features

The pan-fried shrimp recipe is commonly prepared in southern and coastal regions of the United States, especially in states like Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. These areas are known for their rich seafood culture, influenced by both local and international culinary traditions. In Louisiana, for instance, shrimp is often paired with bold Cajun or Creole spices, but this particular recipe sticks to a simple, classic preparation with butter and lemon. This simplicity allows the shrimps natural flavor to shine through.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike more complex seafood dishes such as shrimp scampi or shrimp gumbo, this pan-fried shrimp recipe emphasizes minimalism. The primary ingredientsshrimp, butter, lemon juice, garlic salt, and pepperare simple yet create a rich, savory flavor. In contrast, other shrimp dishes may include cream sauces, pasta, or heavy seasoning. What sets this recipe apart is its quick cooking time and the option to serve it with various sides, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Where It's Typically Served

Pan-fried shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. It is commonly found on seafood restaurant menus, especially along the coasts. At home, it's a favorite for quick dinners or special occasions. It pairs beautifully with sides like rice, salad, or roasted vegetables, and is often accompanied by a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. Whether at a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that shrimp are the most widely consumed seafood in the world? They're incredibly popular not just in the U.S. but also in countries like China, India, and Thailand. In fact, shrimp farming is a major industry globally, with an estimated 60 million tons of shrimp being consumed annually. Interestingly, shrimp have been a part of human diets for thousands of years, with evidence suggesting they were first harvested by ancient civilizations in Asia and the Mediterranean.

Additionally, shrimp come in a variety of species and sizes, and while the "bay shrimp" used in this recipe are small and sweet, larger shrimp varieties like tiger or jumbo shrimp offer a different texture and flavor profile. The simplicity of the pan-fried shrimp recipe, however, works well with any size of shrimp, making it a flexible and popular choice for home cooks.

FAQ about Pan-Fried Shrimp Recipe

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