Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the garlic and butter.
5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts into the cream, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
6. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently in the creamy sauce to coat.
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the shrimp through.
9. Serve the Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and color.

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Enjoy the creamy and tangy flavors of this delicious dish!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but keep in mind that they may become overcooked if added to the skillet for too long. Simply add the pre-cooked shrimp to the skillet at the end, just to heat through.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

• While heavy cream provides a richer and creamier texture, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative. The sauce may not be as thick, but it will still be delicious.

3. Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?

• Parmesan cheese adds a distinct flavor to the dish, but you can experiment with other cheeses such as Asiago, Romano, or even cream cheese for a different taste.

4. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

• Shrimp are cooked through when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery and tough.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and add freshly cooked shrimp before serving.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the shrimp for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

• Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this dish by using a plant-based heavy cream substitute and dairy-free Parmesan cheese. The sauce may have a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.

8. Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

• While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

9. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle instead of fresh lemon juice?

• Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the amount to taste, as bottled lemon juice may be more concentrated.

10. Can I serve this dish with something other than pasta or rice?

• Absolutely! This dish pairs well with crusty bread, quinoa, or even steamed vegetables for a lighter option.