Description
This Easy Jalapeño Garlic-Butter Shrimp recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in a vibrant mixture of honey, garlic, jalapeños, and citrus juices, then quickly sautéed and finished with a flavorful garlic-butter sauce. Perfect for a spicy, zesty meal that comes together in under 35 minutes, this dish is ideal served over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh slaw.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound large raw shrimp (tail-on, peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4–6 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 jalapeño peppers (seeded and chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 lemon
Cooking and Finishing
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade and Shrimp: In a large resealable bag, combine the shrimp, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, honey, finely chopped garlic, chopped jalapeños, lime juice, and lemon juice. Seal the bag and toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Refrigerate and let the shrimp marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp and some garlic pieces from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Place the shrimp in the skillet and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and develop a slight golden sear.
- Make the Sauce: Add the reserved marinade to the skillet along with the salted butter. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the butter has melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Monitor the garlic carefully; once it becomes golden and fragrant, remove the skillet from heat.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the freshly chopped cilantro just before serving. This flavorful shrimp can be enjoyed as is, served over rice, wrapped in tacos, or paired with your favorite coleslaw for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño peppers according to your spice preference; removing seeds reduces heat.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to maintain their juicy texture.
- Marinating time can be up to 30 minutes but avoid exceeding 1 hour to prevent the acid from curing the shrimp.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
