Name: Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh squeezed); 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ground red chili flakes (add more to your taste); 21 oz shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail on or off); 1 pinch salt (to taste); 4 lime wedges (to serve); 1 pinch fresh parsley (chopped, to serve)

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There’s something truly magical about the combination of flavors in Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp. I still remember the first time I prepared this dish for my family. It was a sunny weekend, and I wanted to whip up something special yet simple. The rich aroma of the browned butter filling the kitchen instantly raised everyone’s curiosity. You could almost taste the anticipation in the air! The moment the first shrimp hit the pan, the sizzling sound was like music, and I could hardly wait to dig in. The sweet and savory combination of honey and lime paired perfectly with the shrimp, making it a winning dish that left us all wanting more. I knew right then that this recipe would become a staple in our home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
330 kcal

Protein:
29 g

Diet:
Keto, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why We Love This Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp

Flavor Explosion

What sets Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp apart is the incredible fusion of flavors. The nutty undertones from the browned butter create a rich base, while the honey introduces a delightful sweetness. Adding lime juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness beautifully.

Quick and Easy

This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have much time. The entire process takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish! It’s a lifesaver when unexpected guests pop by.

Beautiful Presentation

Let’s not forget the visual appeal! The glossy shrimp glistening in the sauce are a feast for the eyes. Serve it with some steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice, and you’ll have a stunning meal that looks as amazing as it tastes.

Versatile

One of my favorite things about Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes! Prefer it sweeter? Just drizzle in a little more honey.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is not just for casual dinners; it fits right in for special occasions too! Whether it’s a family gathering, date night, or a summer barbecue, Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp will steal the show and impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp

When it comes to the ingredients for Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays an essential role, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The key players here are the unsalted butter, which lends a rich, nutty flavor once browned, and the honey, which adds a sweet touch that complements the lime juice. Together with the fresh shrimp, they create a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare.

4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star of the dish; browning it enhances its flavor.
4 tablespoons honey: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
1 tablespoon lime juice: Freshly squeezed for that zesty kick.
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce: Provides umami without overpowering the other flavors.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic richness.
1 teaspoon ground red chili flakes: For a hint of heat; adjust to your preference.
21 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined: The main protein of the dish.
1 pinch salt: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
4 lime wedges: For serving; fresh lime enhances flavor at the table.
1 pinch fresh parsley, chopped: A colorful garnish that’s fresh and aromatic.

The Process for Making Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp

Cooking Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp is as easy as it is delicious! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in no time. Each step is straightforward and filled with opportunities to engage your senses.

Begin by heating the browned butter in a non-stick pan or skillet over medium-high heat. As the butter melts, keep swirling the pan and stirring occasionally. After about 3 minutes, the butter will foam, settle, and begin to turn golden brown, filling the kitchen with a delightful nutty fragrance. This is the perfect moment to enjoy the transformation of the butter!
Now, add the honey, lime juice, low sodium soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes to the pan. Stir everything well to combine the flavors. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the mixture to meld beautifully.
Remove the pan from the heat, and carefully pour out just over half of the browned butter mixture, reserving it for later. Make sure to leave about 2 tablespoons of the lime butter mixture in the pan.
Add half of the shrimp to the reserved lime butter in the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, keeping an eye on their color; they should turn opaque and pink. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
To cook the remaining shrimp, wipe the pan with a paper towel and return it to the heat. Add another 2 tablespoons of the reserved lime butter mixture to the pan. If the sauce has thickened too much, feel free to add a teaspoon of olive oil or extra butter.
Season and sear the remaining shrimp in the same manner, about 2 minutes on each side. Watch them closely; they’ll quickly go from translucent to perfectly cooked!
Once they’re cooked through, add the first batch of shrimp back into the pan along with any juices they’ve released. Pour in the remaining lime butter sauce, stirring everything together to coat the shrimp evenly.
Now, taste and season with additional salt if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of chili flakes for additional heat and color.
Finally, serve the Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp alongside steamed vegetables, over rice, or with a fresh salad. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Browning butter: Watch closely! It can go from perfect to burnt in seconds.
Fresh ingredients: Use fresh lime and garlic for the best flavors; they make a significant difference.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear shrimp in batches to get that lovely golden crust.
Quality shrimp: Choose high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best taste. Frozen shrimp works too but ensure it’s properly thawed.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to customize your Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp, you’re in luck! There are so many ways to switch up this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

Add vegetables: Toss in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavor.
Swap the protein: Try using scallops or tofu for a different protein option.
Spice it up: Increase the amount of chili flakes for a hotter dish, or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Sweeten it up: In addition to the honey, consider adding a splash of orange juice for a fresh twist.
Fresh herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for unique flavor profiles.
Serving ideas: Serve it on a bed of quinoa or with crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Perfect Pairings for Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp

Pairing dishes with Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic ideas to consider:

White rice: The mild flavors of white rice absorb the delicious lime and butter sauce, making each bite a treat.
Steamed vegetables: Add a vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a healthy side.
Salads: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the shrimp perfectly.
Quinoa: Nutty quinoa adds a hearty texture while soaking up the sauce.
Occasions: This dish is ideal for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or a casual family meal.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl with lime wedges on the side for a beautiful table setting.

FAQ

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just as well as fresh. Just ensure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can defrost them overnight in the fridge or place them in a bowl of cold water for faster results. Once thawed, pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely in the pan.

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it over white rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A fresh salad or quinoa can also complement the shrimp, adding texture and additional nutrition. The options are endless!

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to warm them gently, preventing the shrimp from becoming tough.

Yes! If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add extra red chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The beauty of Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp is its versatility, and adjusting the spice level to your liking is simple.

Conclusion

In summary, Browned Butter Honey Lime Shrimp is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its sweet, savory, and zesty notes. It’s quick to prepare and visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try! Your family and friends will love it, and you might just find it becoming a new favorite in your kitchen.