Irresistible Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp: A Seafood Lover’s Dream
Hey there, seafood lovers! If you’re craving a dish that combines simplicity with rich, mouth-watering flavors, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into the delectable world of Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp. This dish is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a comforting meal at home. Let’s get ready to cook up a storm with this easy-to-follow recipe that’ll make you feel like a pro chef in no time!
Ingredients
Squid: Squid is a versatile seafood that’s tender and slightly sweet when cooked properly. It’s low in calories and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice. Plus, it has a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic and butter.
Shrimp: Shrimp are a staple in many seafood dishes. They’re juicy, tender, and have a slightly sweet taste. High in protein and low in fat, shrimp are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health.
Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish. It’s perfect for sautéing seafood, giving it a golden-brown finish and enhancing the overall flavor with its luscious, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Garlic: Garlic is a must-have in this recipe. It brings a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the seafood beautifully. Besides, garlic has numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and having anti-inflammatory properties.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish with a zesty kick. It helps balance the richness of the butter and adds a fresh, tangy flavor that elevates the seafood.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is much more than a decorative touch. It adds vibrant color and a mild, peppery taste that elevates the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, it’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the seafood, giving it a nice, crispy texture. It’s a healthier option compared to other oils and adds a subtle, fruity flavor.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the seafood and other ingredients. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper are all you need to elevate this dish to perfection.
Recipe
Alright, folks, let’s get cooking! Here’s how you can whip up this delightful Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp dish in your kitchen.
Instructions:
- Prep Time: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Clean and slice the squid into rings. If not done already, peel and devein the shrimp. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Prepping everything in advance makes the cooking process smooth and easy.
- Heat the Pan: Grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for action.
- Cook the Squid: Using the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, just like the squid. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the squid.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque. Just like with the squid, don’t overcook the shrimp. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside with the squid.
- Make the Sauce: Now, add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt and start bubbling. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – you want it golden, not brown.
- Combine Everything: Place the squid and shrimp back into the skillet. Add the lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Stir thoroughly to ensure the seafood is evenly coated in the buttery garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp hot, straight from the skillet. You can enjoy it as is, or pair it with some crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad. The choice is yours!
Health Perks
This Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits. Here’s why you should feel good about indulging in this seafood delight:
- High in Protein: High in Protein: Squid and shrimp are both rich in protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Low in Calories: Seafood is generally low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight. This dish gives you a hearty meal without the extra calories.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp, in particular, is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
- Boosts Immune System: Garlic is a powerhouse ingredient that can boost your immune system, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Good for Bone Health: The parsley in this recipe is packed with vitamin K, essential for maintaining healthy bones.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Lemon juice and parsley are both rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body, promoting overall health.
So, there you have it! A delicious, easy-to-make Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp recipe that’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a boost for your health. Now, let’s get cooking and enjoy this seafood feast!
Butter Garlic Squid and Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound squid cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Clean and cut the squid into rings. Peel and devein the shrimp if not done already. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the squid rings to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn opaque and start curling up. Remove the squid from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside with the squid.
- Add butter to the skillet. Let it melt and start bubbling. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Return the squid and shrimp to the skillet. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the chopped parsley. Stir everything together until the seafood is well-coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet. Enjoy as is, or pair with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.
Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for added flavor.