Lemon garlic butter creates a tantalizing flavor profile that enhances a variety of dishes. From succulent Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta to savory Grilled Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, these recipes offer something for everyone. Vegetables like asparagus or zucchini noodles also shine when tossed in this zesty sauce. Additionally, savory options like Lemon Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken and Crab Cakes deliver rich taste. Discover more enticing combinations and meal ideas that elevate any dinner table with ease.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delicious and indulgent dish that brings together the rich flavors of succulent shrimp sautéed in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is ideal for seafood lovers and makes for an impressive meal to serve guests or a quick weeknight dinner.
With a preparation time of about 25 minutes, it's perfect for anyone looking to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or linguine
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Cooking Steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook until the shrimp is pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
4. Combine: Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.
Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Serve: Serve the pasta hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top and extra lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Vegetable Additions: You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
- Pasta Options: Feel free to use other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, depending on your preference.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to suit your taste if you're a fan of garlic flavor.
- Protein Swap: If shrimp isn't your thing, you can substitute it with chicken or even scallops.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce after combining the shrimp and pasta.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance, keeping it separate from the pasta. Simply reheat the sauce before combining with the cooked pasta and shrimp.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken
Lemon Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering with friends. This dish combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter, resulting in a roasted chicken that is succulent and aromatic.
With a preparation time of approximately 15 minutes, followed by a cooking time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you can create a beautiful centerpiece for your dinner table with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, if available)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan. Gently lift the skin on the breast and thigh areas, being careful not to tear it. Place half of the lemon garlic butter mixture under the skin and massage it evenly, then spread the remaining mixture over the entire outside of the chicken.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with pan juices once or twice during cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For Added Flavor: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aromatic flavor.
- Vegetables: Surround the chicken with root vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, or onions) in the roasting pan for a complete one-pan meal.
- Cooking Method: For a crispy skin, consider spatchcocking the chicken (removing the backbone) to help it cook faster and evenly.
- Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.
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Grilled Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, making certain it is well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill.
- Grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Carefully remove the salmon from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle any leftover marinade from the dish over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Variations:
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as dill or thyme, for added flavor.
Tips:
- If using frozen salmon, make sure to fully thaw it before marinating to guarantee even cooking.
- To enhance the grill marks, avoid flipping the salmon too soon. Let it sear well on the first side before turning.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon!
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Lemon Garlic Butter Asparagus
Lemon Garlic Butter Asparagus is a fresh, vibrant side dish that perfectly complements any main course, making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or even a simple weeknight meal. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic meld harmoniously with tender asparagus spears, creating a dish that not only tastes delicious but is also visually appealing. Preparation time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for busy cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by rinsing the asparagus under cold water and trimming the tough ends. This will guarantee a more pleasant eating experience.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is bright green and tender but still crisp.
- Once the asparagus is cooked, add in the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to coat the asparagus evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Variations and Tips:
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- If you prefer roasted asparagus, toss the asparagus in the lemon garlic butter mixture and spread it out on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
- You can also add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the skillet for more colors and flavors.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or as part of a larger spread during dinner parties.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are a quick and elegant seafood dish that brings together the delicate flavors of scallops with the savory richness of butter, complemented by the brightness of lemon and garlic.
Ideal for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, this recipe only takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect choice for any busy weeknight or entertaining guest.
The scallops sear beautifully, creating a lovely caramelized crust while remaining tender inside.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cooking Steps
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and hot.
- Season the scallops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Once the butter is bubbling, add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer (do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
- Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until they're golden brown. Flip them gently and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through and opaque.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and place them on a warm plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour the lemon garlic butter over the scallops, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Variations and Tips
- For added flavor, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter for a bit of heat.
- Substitute half of the butter with olive oil for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Serve the scallops over a bed of creamy risotto, pasta, or sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
- Make certain that the scallops are dry before cooking to get a proper sear.
- If using frozen scallops, make sure they are completely thawed and dried before searing.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Steak
Lemon Garlic Butter Steak is a delightful and succulent dish that combines the richness of steak with the zesty brightness of lemon and the aromatic allure of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or even a weeknight meal that feels indulgent. It serves 2 and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the steaks in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it.
- Sear the Steaks: Cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steaks and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare or adjust depending on your desired doneness.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Butter: In the last minute of cooking, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the steaks to baste them, enhancing their flavor and moisture.
- Finish with Lemon: Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, add the lemon juice and zest to the pan. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds to meld the flavors together.
- Serve: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Slice against the grain, drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley.
Variations and Tips:
- Steak Choices: While ribeye and sirloin are popular options, feel free to use filet mignon, T-bone, or flank steak for different flavor profiles.
- Herb Infusion: For additional flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary when basting the steaks with butter.
- Add Vegetables: Sauté some asparagus, broccoli, or mushrooms in the same skillet after cooking the steaks for a complete meal.
- Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness—135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well done.
- Side Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the steak.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Broccoli
Lemon Garlic Butter Broccoli is a delightful and vibrant side dish that brings together the juicy brightness of lemon and the rich flavor of garlic in a buttery sauce, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
Perfect for those looking to incorporate a healthy vegetable into their dinner, this dish takes just about 15 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The combination of flavors elevates the humble broccoli to a featured role on your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Cooking Steps:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside once cooled.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Stir in the lemon zest and juice, seasoning the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
- Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the florets evenly with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For a different flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the butter sauce for a tangy kick.
- If you enjoy a little sweetness, you can toss in some sliced almonds or walnuts just before serving for added crunch.
- To make it a complete meal, add cooked chicken or shrimp to the pan along with the broccoli.
- Pairing this dish with grilled salmon or steak will create a deliciously balanced meal. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Broccoli!
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Lemon Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Lemon Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a delectable seafood dish, perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home. This elegant meal combines the rich, buttery flavors of garlic and lemon with tender, succulent lobster meat, resulting in a dish that is as impressive as it is delicious. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes with a cooking time of 10-15 minutes, making it an exquisite yet easy option for a romantic dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 large lobster tails
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the broiler on your oven to high.
- Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail, from the base to the tip, making sure not to cut the meat underneath. Gently pull the meat up and over the shell, keeping it attached at the base.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Lobster: Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet, flesh side up. Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat.
- Broil the Lobster: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and fork-tender. Baste with additional garlic butter halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lobster tails from the oven, drizzle with any remaining garlic butter, and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Variations and Tips:
- Herb Infusion: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy version.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: If you have leftover lobster, it can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Lobster Tails with a glass of white wine for a truly indulgent dining experience!
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Lemon Garlic Butter Cauliflower Steaks
Lemon Garlic Butter Cauliflower Steaks are a delicious and satisfying vegetarian main dish that showcases the rich flavors of lemon and garlic paired with the hearty texture of cauliflower. Perfect for those looking for a healthy yet indulgent meal, this recipe serves well for weeknight dinners or as an impressive side dish for special occasions.
In just 30 minutes, you can have a beautifully caramelized cauliflower steak ready to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and carefully slice it into 3/4-inch thick steaks. Reserve any florets that break off for another use.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
- Place the cauliflower steaks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cauliflower is tender, flipping halfway through to guarantee even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for added flavor.
- If you prefer a grilled version, cook the cauliflower steaks on a preheated grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the lemon garlic butter.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad or quinoa for a complete meal.
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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a delicious and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. This recipe features tender chicken thighs bathed in a savory lemon-garlic butter sauce that is both rich and invigorating. The preparation time takes about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a relatively quick dish that brings a taste of gourmet dining to your home kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to guarantee a crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme, and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
- Carefully flip the chicken thighs over so they are skin-side up. Spoon some of the lemon garlic sauce over the top of the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once fully cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
- Incorporate vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or sliced bell peppers by adding them to the skillet during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.
Enjoy this rich and zesty dish that is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!
Lemon Garlic Butter Green Beans
Lemon Garlic Butter Green Beans are a delightful and vibrant side dish that perfectly complements any dinner table. This simple yet flavorful dish takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
The combination of fresh green beans, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter enhances the natural taste of the beans, creating a rejuvenating accompaniment to your main course, particularly chicken, fish, or steak.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Lemon slices and fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain them and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Drain again and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter until well coated. Sprinkle in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and mix thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Once the green beans are heated through (about 2-3 minutes), transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with lemon slices and freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Swap out the green beans for asparagus or broccoli for a different vegetable option.
- Feel free to add toasted almonds or pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- To enhance the lemony flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your taste preference.
- This dish can also be made ahead of time; just reheat the green beans gently in a skillet before serving to retain their crispness.
Lemon Garlic Butter Crab Cakes
Lemon Garlic Butter Crab Cakes
Lemon Garlic Butter Crab Cakes are a delightful seafood dish that brings together the rich flavors of crab, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. These savory cakes are perfect for seafood lovers, making them an excellent choice for a special dinner or festive gatherings.
With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, these crab cakes are quick to whip up without sacrificing flavor. You'll enjoy a delicious entrée that pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a buttery garlic dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cooking Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
- Form the mixture into crab cakes, approximately 3-4 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to help them firm up.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the crab cakes (working in batches if necessary) and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Add additional butter as needed when flipping the cakes.
- Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations and Tips:
- For a cucumber-dill sauce, substitute the lemon juice with Greek yogurt and add fresh dill for a revitalizing dip.
- Feel free to incorporate other ingredients such as diced bell peppers or finely chopped scallions for added flavor.
- To make these crab cakes even lighter, consider baking them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Pair with a light salad or a refreshing coleslaw for a complete meal experience.
Lemon Garlic Butter Quinoa Salad
Lemon Garlic Butter Quinoa Salad is a revitalizing and vibrant dish that combines protein-packed quinoa with the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic, all brought together with luxurious butter. This salad is perfect for those seeking a light yet filling meal, suitable for lunch or dinner, and can be enjoyed by vegetarians and health-conscious individuals alike.
Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 20 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for topping
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and broth; bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed garlic butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Toss to mix well.
- Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve warm or chilled, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- You can substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free version.
- Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or avocados for additional flavor and nutrition.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it great for meal prep.
Lemon Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles
Lemon Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles are a light and invigorating dish that makes for an excellent low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quick and flavorful meal without the heaviness of carbohydrates, making it great for anyone, including vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
The preparation time for this dish is around 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a simple yet elegant dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Begin by spiralizing the zucchinis to create noodle shapes. If you don't have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create long strips.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the prepared zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently, until the noodles are tender but still have a bit of crunch.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the zucchini noodles warm, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For added protein, consider incorporating shrimp or grilled chicken into the dish.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or thyme, for a unique flavor twist.
- If you want a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
- Make sure not to overcook the zucchini noodles, as they can become mushy; a quick sauté is all that's needed.
- To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and omit the cheese.
Lemon Garlic Butter Tuscan Mushroom Risotto
Lemon Garlic Butter Tuscan Mushroom Risotto is a creamy, delightful dish that perfectly balances the rich flavors of buttery mushrooms with the zesty brightness of lemon. This risotto is ideal for anyone who appreciates a comforting, gourmet meal that can impress guests or provide a special dinner for family.
With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the broth: In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling.
- Cook the mushrooms: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms, salt, and pepper, cooking until golden brown, around 5-7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring the grains are coated with the butter mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent.
- Add wine and simmer: Pour in the white wine, stirring frequently until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Incorporate the broth: Begin adding the warmed broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth. Repeat this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
- Finish with flavors: Once the risotto is cooked, stir in the sautéed mushrooms, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Remove the risotto from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Variations & Tips:
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed spinach.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for varied flavor profiles.
- If you want a plant-based option, substitute butter with vegan butter and Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- To enhance flavor, try adding a splash of truffle oil just before serving for a luxurious finish.
- Risotto is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat with a little extra broth to restore creaminess.
