Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach

There’s something magical about the combination of garlic butter and shrimp, especially when paired with a bed of tender, wilted spinach. This dish is bursting with flavor, incredibly simple to whip up, and sure to impress at your next dinner. The shrimp are buttery and garlicky, while the spinach adds a nutritious, vibrant touch, making this a meal that’s both delicious and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights!
• Full of Flavor: The garlic butter sauce is a rich, savory base that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Healthy: With protein-packed shrimp and nutrient-rich spinach, this dish satisfies both your taste buds and your body.
• Versatile: Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

The Taste

Picture this—juicy shrimp, seared in a garlicky butter sauce, with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. When you take a bite, you’ll get that burst of citrusy brightness from the lemon, paired with the smooth, earthy flavor of sautéed spinach. And the aroma—oh, the smell of garlic and butter sizzling together is simply irresistible!

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 10 oz fresh spinach
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• A large skillet
• Tongs or a spatula for turning the shrimp
• A garlic press or small knife for mincing
• A lemon juicer (or just use your hands!)

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Shrimp substitutions: Don’t have shrimp? Swap them out for scallops or even chicken tenders.
• Spinach alternatives: Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula work well too!
• Butter alternative: Use ghee or dairy-free butter to keep it lactose-free.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach

1. Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, then remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Sauté the Spinach

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently with the sautéed spinach to combine and heat through.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, serve immediately, and enjoy!

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Spinach

• Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up that garlicky butter sauce.
• Steamed rice: To turn this into a heartier meal.
• Pasta: Toss everything together with some linguine or spaghetti for a delicious shrimp pasta dish.
• Zoodles: If you’re going low-carb, zucchini noodles are a great option!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Every Time

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook fast! Once they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape, they’re ready.
• Prep everything before you start: Shrimp and garlic cook quickly, so have everything ready to go.
• Fresh spinach wilts fast: Be careful not to overcook it—you want it just tender.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little butter or olive oil to refresh the sauce. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is there a way to make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers would be great additions to this dish.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Spinach is not only a visual stunner, but it’s also one of the easiest, most flavorful meals you can throw together in 20 minutes. It’s versatile, comforting, and brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, with a side of rice, or on its own with some crusty bread, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!

Looking for more shrimp recipes? Check out these delicious ideas:

• New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp
• Garlic Butter Lobster Bites with Saffron Mash
• Succulent Steak Topped with Rich Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know what you thought by leaving a review, and don’t forget to share your dish on Pinterest!

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 7g
• Fat: 12g

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