Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp: A Weight Watchers-Friendly Delight

Enjoy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp, a Weight Watchers-friendly dish that’s both delicious and guilt-free. Perfect for healthy, flavorful meals! This recipe is an absolute delight for seafood lovers and offers a sumptuous flavor profile without any of the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: The dish is made with easy-to-find ingredients that don’t overwhelm your palate.
• Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Healthy: Packed with rich flavors while being low in points on the Weight Watchers scale.
• Versatile Dish: Easily adaptable for various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up and impress your guests with minimal effort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp are not only simple but essential for creating a dish that bursts with flavor. Each one contributes to the overall taste and texture, ensuring you enjoy every bite.

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp are both great; they are the star of the dish.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to the dish; feel free to use light butter for fewer points.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh and vibrant touch, enhancing the overall presentation.

Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your favorite ingredients, dietary needs, or taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider!

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat to spice things up.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill for a unique flavor twist.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
• Wine Sauce: Incorporate a splash of white wine for an elevated flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles instead of rice for a low-carb meal.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to give your shrimp that perfect baked texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse your shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for ensuring they bake evenly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a flavorful base for your shrimp.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Add the shrimp to the garlic butter mixture, tossing them to coat evenly. This ensures every piece is full of flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

Spread the shrimp in a single layer on a baking dish and pour any remaining garlic butter mixture over the top. Bake for around 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp (Weight Watchers-Friendly)

• Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp when possible for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to season according to your taste; a little salt and pepper can go a long way.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your shrimp right after baking for the best flavor experience.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Try different spices and herbs to discover your favorite combination.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp (Weight Watchers-Friendly)

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of quinoa for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet light.

Creative Ways to Present

Present the garlic butter baked shrimp in a beautiful platter, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs to impress your guests at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier.

Freezing

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, it can be frozen before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain the shrimp’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients used in Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp (Weight Watchers-Friendly) are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl slightly; this usually takes about 10-12 minutes in the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Of course! Just ensure you have a larger baking dish to accommodate all the shrimp, and adjust the cooking time if necessary.

What can I substitute for butter?

For a lighter option, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute while keeping the flavor intact.

Final Thoughts

You simply must try the Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp (Weight Watchers-Friendly). It’s not only a quick and easy dish to prepare but also a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy meal bursting with flavor. Make it tonight and impress your taste buds!

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