Introduction:
Craving a seafood dinner that’s bursting with flavor, yet quick and easy to prepare? What if I told you that you could make a dish with two types of seafood—shrimp and salmon—cooked together in a sizzling skillet with a rich garlic butter sauce? Yes, that’s right! This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Salmon Skillet recipe will give you the best of both worlds: tender, juicy shrimp and flaky, flavorful salmon, all in one dish. Ready to impress your taste buds and dinner guests? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Overview:
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Salmon Skillet recipe combines two of the most beloved seafood options—shrimp and salmon—in one simple yet elegant dish. Here’s what makes it so special:
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Cook time: 15-20 minutes
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Difficulty level: Easy
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Perfect for: Quick weeknight dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The garlic butter sauce is the star of the show, infusing both the shrimp and salmon with rich, savory flavors, while a dash of lemon and herbs adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
Essential Ingredients:
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful seafood skillet:
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4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, your choice)
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Salmon’s rich, tender texture and natural oils make it the perfect pairing for the buttery sauce.
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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Shrimp cook quickly and add a juicy, slightly sweet contrast to the rich salmon.
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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The base of the garlic butter sauce that adds richness and flavor.
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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Garlic adds depth to the butter sauce and infuses the seafood with a savory, aromatic flavor.
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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A bright, citrusy zing that balances the richness of the butter and complements the seafood.
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1 tsp dried parsley
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Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
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1/2 tsp paprika
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A mild spice that enhances the flavor without overpowering the seafood.
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1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper
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To season the seafood and garlic butter sauce.
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Lemon wedges (for serving)
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To squeeze over the shrimp and salmon for an extra burst of freshness.
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Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
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Adds color and freshness to the finished dish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp and Salmon
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Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help them sear beautifully in the pan.
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Season both the salmon fillets and shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
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Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets).
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Sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) when done.
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Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.
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Once the shrimp are cooked, return the salmon fillets to the skillet.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
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Add the lemon juice, dried parsley, and a pinch more salt and pepper to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all the flavors.
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Allow the shrimp and salmon to simmer for another 1-2 minutes in the garlic butter sauce, so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
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Transfer the shrimp and salmon to serving plates. Spoon some of the garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top for extra flavor.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Assembly and Presentation Tips:
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Serving Suggestions:
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This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Salmon Skillet pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a light green salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
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Presentation Tips:
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For a visually stunning presentation, serve the shrimp and salmon on a large platter with extra sauce poured over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
To Store:
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Refrigerate: Allow the shrimp and salmon to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To Reheat:
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Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
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Skillet: You can also reheat the seafood in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little more butter or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Make-Ahead Tip:
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You can prep the shrimp and salmon in advance, seasoning them with the spices and storing them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. The garlic butter sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge, then reheated when you’re ready to cook.
Recipe Variations:
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Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a little heavy cream or cream cheese to the garlic butter sauce to create a rich, creamy sauce for the shrimp and salmon.
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Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or tarragon instead of dried parsley for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion:
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Salmon Skillet is the perfect meal for seafood lovers and anyone looking for a quick, delicious dinner. The combination of shrimp and salmon creates a balanced dish, while the garlic butter sauce ties everything together with its rich, savory flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re adding some spice or making it extra creamy, the possibilities are endless!
FAQs:
1. Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon? Yes! If using frozen shrimp or salmon, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
2. Can I make this recipe without butter? You can use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option, but the flavor of the garlic butter sauce is what makes this dish so special.
3. What sides go best with this dish? This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a crunchy green salad. For a heartier meal, serve with potatoes or pasta.
4. Can I make this dish without garlic? If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it, but the garlic is a key flavor in this recipe. Try using shallots or onions as a milder alternative.
5. Can I substitute the shrimp for another seafood? Yes! You can use scallops, white fish fillets, or even lobster tail in place of the shrimp.
