Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack is a deliciously elegant and flavorful meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in rich garlic butter and layered over perfectly cooked rice, then stacked for a beautiful presentation. Garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon, this dish combines simplicity and sophistication in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Rice
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
Additional
- 4 small round molds (or an empty tuna can with both ends removed)
- Extra parsley or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Start by warming the cooked rice in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt until heated through and slightly fluffy. This will add flavor and improve the texture for stacking.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, lemon juice, and paprika. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Stack: Place the round molds on serving plates. Spoon the warm buttered rice into each mold, pressing gently to compact it. Next, layer the cooked garlic butter shrimp on top of the rice within each mold.
- Finish and Garnish: Carefully remove the molds to leave a neat stack of rice and shrimp. Garnish each stack with freshly chopped parsley and optionally add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal that balances rich butter, savory shrimp, and aromatic garlic perfectly.
Notes
- You can use either white or brown rice based on your preference and dietary needs.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
- If you don’t have molds, you can carefully shape the stacks using a spoon or ring mold.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
- Fresh lemon juice is key to brightening the flavors, but lemon zest can be added for extra aroma.
