Fresh Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe with Spring Peas and Mint Easy and Perfect

The first time I whipped up this fresh garlic butter shrimp with spring peas and mint, I was rushing to get dinner on the table after a long, unpredictable day. Honestly, my fridge was looking pretty sparse—just a few shrimp, some frozen peas, and a lonely bunch of mint that had seen better days. I wasn’t even sure if the combo would work. But as I tossed everything in a hot skillet, the sizzle of garlic in butter filled the kitchen, and suddenly, the whole place smelled like a cozy, sunny afternoon. The bright pop of peas paired with that fresh mint note—well, it surprised me. Who knew that such a simple, almost thrown-together dish could feel so thoughtful and fresh?

That night, as I sat down with a plate full of what I now think of as the perfect spring dinner, I realized this recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about that moment of calm after chaos, the kind of meal that feels like a little reset. It’s quick, easy, and honest, the kind of recipe I find myself making several times a week when I want something light but satisfying. This dish stuck with me because it captures that fleeting freshness of spring, and the garlic butter just ties it all together with a richness that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want to impress yourself, not just guests, and that’s why it’s become one of my go-tos.

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe with Spring Peas and Mint

After testing this recipe multiple times in my kitchen, tweaking the garlic-to-butter ratio and finding the perfect moment to add fresh mint, I can confidently say this dish hits all the right notes. It’s a blend of flavors that’s bright, buttery, and just a little unexpected. Here’s why you’re going to want to have this on repeat:

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, it takes under 20 minutes—ideal for those nights when you want something fresh but can’t spend forever cooking.
• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find items. Pantry staples like garlic and butter meet fresh spring peas and mint for a recipe that’s as accessible as it is tasty.
• Perfect for Spring & Light Dinners: The fresh peas and mint give it a seasonal vibe that’s lovely for lighter dinners or even a casual weekend lunch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve served this at small gatherings, and it always gets a nod—even from folks who usually prefer heartier meals.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The garlic butter sauce coats each shrimp perfectly, while the mint adds a refreshing lift that makes every bite feel lively.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance—it’s not just garlic butter shrimp thrown together with peas. The mint isn’t an afterthought; it’s a crucial player that brings that subtle brightness and herbaceous depth you don’t see in most shrimp dishes. It’s a little like meeting an old friend in a new, unexpected way—and you want to keep that feeling going.

Honestly, this recipe has become a quiet favorite of mine, much like the creamy spring pea and mint soup I adore during chillier days. You get the same fresh vibe but in a completely different texture and experience. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when treated right, can create moments worth savoring.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This fresh garlic butter shrimp recipe uses straightforward ingredients that work together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find in your local grocery store, and they come together with minimal fuss.

• Shrimp: 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (I like wild-caught when possible for the best texture)
• Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons (adds richness and helps mellow the garlic)
• Garlic: 4 cloves, finely minced (fresh garlic is essential for that punch)
• Spring Peas: 1 cup (fresh or frozen, thawed; fresh peas add a sweeter note)
• Fresh Mint: 2 tablespoons chopped (adds bright, refreshing flavor—use more if you love herbs)
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed (balances the butter and garlic with a zesty lift)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste (season simply to let the other flavors shine)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (to help sear the shrimp without burning)
• Optional Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch (if you like a little heat)

For this recipe, I often reach for a good quality unsalted butter like Kerrygold because it melts beautifully without overpowering the garlic. When it comes to shrimp, choosing fresh or high-quality frozen makes a big difference. If you’re curious about other ways to enjoy shrimp, the honey lemon glazed salmon recipe from the same kitchen shares a similar balance of sweet and citrus that pairs well with seafood.

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best to get that nice sear on the shrimp while melting the butter evenly.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring without scratching your pan.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: To keep ingredient amounts precise, especially for the garlic and butter balance.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for mincing garlic and chopping mint finely.
• Citrus Juicer or Reamer: To get the most juice out of your lemon without seeds.

If you don’t have a heavy skillet, a good non-stick pan will do, though it might not get quite the same sear. I’ve found that a cast iron skillet works wonders if you want a deeper golden crust on your shrimp, but be mindful of the seasoning—it can sometimes add a smoky note that’s not for everyone.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse 1 pound (450g) of large shrimp under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear better and prevent steaming. Set aside.
2. Cook the Spring Peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Frozen peas can be thawed and drained. This step ensures peas stay bright green and retain texture.
3. Mince Garlic and Chop Mint: Finely mince 4 cloves of garlic and chop 2 tablespoons of fresh mint leaves. Set aside separately to add at different stages for maximum flavor.
4. Heat the Pan: Warm 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side without moving them to get a nice sear.
5. Flip and Add Garlic: Turn shrimp over and add the minced garlic around the edges of the pan. Stir garlic quickly to avoid burning; it should soften and become fragrant, about 30 seconds.
6. Add Butter and Peas: Reduce heat to medium, add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and the cooked peas. Stir gently, coating shrimp and peas in the garlic butter sauce. Let the butter melt fully and start to bubble slightly.
7. Season and Finish: Squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if desired. Toss in the chopped mint leaves and give everything a final gentle stir. Cook for another minute until shrimp are opaque and cooked through (internal temp about 120°F/49°C).
8. Serve Immediately: Transfer to plates or a serving bowl. The sauce will be glossy and fragrant, the shrimp tender with a buttery garlic finish, balanced by the fresh peas and mint.

Pro tip: Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they turn rubbery fast, and that buttery sauce won’t save them. When they turn pink with slight translucency in the center, they’re done. Also, adding the mint last ensures it keeps that fresh, bright flavor without wilting into bitterness.

Cooking Tips & Techniques for Success

Cooking shrimp can be intimidating, but a few tricks make this garlic butter shrimp recipe foolproof. First, always pat your shrimp dry before cooking. Moisture means steaming instead of searing, and that changes the texture completely. I learned this the hard way after one batch turned out soggy instead of crisp-tender.

Next, when cooking the garlic, keep the heat moderate. Garlic burns quickly and becomes bitter, which can ruin the whole dish. Adding it after flipping the shrimp lets you control the timing better and get that toasty, fragrant note without the harshness.

Butter and olive oil together create a nice balance—olive oil raises the smoke point, so the butter doesn’t burn, but you still get that rich, creamy flavor. This combo is one of those little chef secrets I picked up that truly makes a difference.

Timing-wise, multitask by prepping your peas and herbs while the shrimp cooks. It keeps the process smooth and ensures nothing sits too long, which can make the shrimp tough or the peas mushy.

Lastly, don’t shy away from seasoning generously. Salt and pepper enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor, and the pinch of red pepper flakes adds just enough warmth without overpowering the freshness.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is a great canvas for tweaks depending on your mood or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried or thought about:

• Low-Carb or Keto: Serve the shrimp and peas over zoodles or cauliflower rice instead of bread or pasta for a light, grain-free meal.
• Vegan Version: Swap shrimp for marinated king oyster mushrooms sliced thickly, and use vegan butter. The mushrooms soak up the garlic butter sauce nicely.
• Seasonal Twist: In late summer, swap spring peas for fresh green beans or snap peas for a slightly different crunch and sweetness.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the butter for a bolder profile.
• Herb Variations: If mint isn’t your favorite, fresh basil or tarragon also pair beautifully with shrimp and garlic butter.

One personal favorite is swapping in a splash of white wine during the butter melting stage—adds a subtle acidity and depth. For more herbal inspiration, you might enjoy the fresh herb layering in lamb chops with rosemary mint sauce, which similarly balances bold flavors with fresh herbs.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This fresh garlic butter shrimp with spring peas and mint is best served immediately while warm and glossy. I love plating it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs well, keeping the meal light and fresh.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid turning the shrimp rubbery. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce back up.

The flavors actually mellow and meld nicely after a day, making it a great option for next-day lunches. Just refresh with a sprinkle of fresh mint before serving to bring back the brightness.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish is a lean protein powerhouse thanks to the shrimp, which is low in calories but packed with vitamins like B12 and minerals such as selenium. The fresh peas add fiber and vitamin C, while the mint contributes antioxidants and a refreshing digestive aid. Using unsalted butter keeps sodium in check, and the lemon juice adds vitamin C and bright flavor without extra calories.

Overall, it’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent but is pretty light on the waistline. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for low-carb or dairy-free diets.

Conclusion

Fresh garlic butter shrimp with spring peas and mint is one of those recipes that quietly wins you over without fuss. It’s quick, simple, and full of fresh spring flavor, perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying but not heavy. I love how the mint adds a little surprise freshness that makes the whole dish feel special.

Don’t hesitate to make it your own—swap herbs, add a little heat, or pair it with your favorite sides. I hope this recipe becomes a comforting staple in your kitchen, the kind of meal you make when you want to feel a little fancy but keep it easy.

If you’ve tried this dish or have your own variations, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below. Sharing those little tweaks is what makes cooking fun and keeps recipes alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to get the best sear.
• What if I don’t have fresh mint? Fresh mint really brightens the dish, but fresh basil or tarragon can be good substitutes. Dried herbs won’t give the same freshness.
• How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking? Cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat until just opaque and pink—typically 3-4 minutes total depending on size.
• Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Absolutely. Replace butter with a vegan butter or extra olive oil for a dairy-free version.
• What should I serve with garlic butter shrimp and peas? Rice, crusty bread, or light pasta work well. For a brunch twist, it pairs nicely with dishes like quiche lorraine or a simple green salad.

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