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Keto Butter Lime Shrimp – Bright, Buttery, And Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp: 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off).
  • Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon to prevent the butter from burning.
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, finely minced.
  • Lime: Zest of 1 lime and 2–3 tablespoons fresh lime juice.
  • Spices: 1 teaspoon chili powder or paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional).
  • Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped (or parsley if you prefer).
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.
  • Optional add-ins: 1 tablespoon capers for briny bite, a pinch of garlic powder, or 1 teaspoon fish sauce for depth.
  • To serve: Cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or lettuce cups.

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry: Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. Dry shrimp sear better and don’t steam in the pan.
  2. Season generously: Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, chili powder or paprika, and cumin. Add a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  3. Preheat the pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil, then 2 tablespoons of butter. When the butter melts and foams, you’re ready to cook.
  4. Sear the shrimp in batches: Add half the shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes until the underside is opaque and lightly seared, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes. Remove to a plate and repeat with remaining shrimp.
  5. Lower the heat and build the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  6. Add lime zest and juice: Stir in zest and juice, scraping up any browned bits. If using capers or a splash of fish sauce, add now. Let it bubble for 30 seconds.
  7. Return shrimp: Add shrimp back to the pan with any juices. Toss to coat and warm through for 30–60 seconds. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime.
  8. Finish with herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and give it a final toss.
  9. Serve right away: Spoon over cauliflower rice or zoodles, or pile into lettuce cups. Pour extra sauce over the top.