Description
A rich and flavorful Shrimp Butter recipe that combines tender cooked shrimp with garlic-infused butter, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Perfect for serving with grilled bread, seafood, or pasta, this easy-to-make butter adds a delightful seafood twist to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Butter Ingredients
- 1/2 lb (8 oz) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Chop the cooked shrimp into small pieces, keeping some texture to ensure a pleasant bite in the butter mixture.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Combine with Butter: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with the sautéed garlic and olive oil until thoroughly combined.
- Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Stir the chopped shrimp into the butter mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Mix in lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure all ingredients are well blended.
- Chill (Optional): For optimal texture, shape the shrimp butter into a log using plastic wrap or parchment paper, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. It can also be served immediately if preferred.
- Serve: Enjoy the shrimp butter spread on grilled bread, crackers, or melted over seafood dishes and pasta for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked shrimp to save time; fresh shrimp must be cooked and cooled before using.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Refrigerate before serving to firm the butter for easier slicing and serving.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust garlic and lemon juice amounts to suit personal taste.
