Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp

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Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp

Introduction

Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that brings together the sweet richness of honey, the creamy smoothness of butter, and the bold, savory spice of Old Bay seasoning. The result is a dish that is slightly sweet, perfectly spiced, and full of flavor. Quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or as an appetizer at parties. It captures the heart of coastal cooking while delivering a touch of comfort food warmth.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, depending on preference)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (plus more for sprinkling)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss lightly with olive oil and half the Old Bay seasoning.
  2. Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until slightly bubbling.
  3. Add Honey and Garlic: Stir in honey and garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  5. Finish with Flavor: Add the remaining Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly in the honey butter sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Methods of Serving

  • Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks.
  • Pair with rice, couscous, or buttered pasta for a main course.
  • Add to tacos with a drizzle of creamy sauce.
  • Layer over a fresh green salad for a light meal.

History

The use of Old Bay seasoning dates back to the 1940s in Baltimore, Maryland, where German immigrant Gustav Brunn created the iconic blend to season crabs and shrimp. Its bold mix of celery salt, paprika, and spices became a staple of Chesapeake Bay cuisine. Honey butter, on the other hand, has long roots in Southern cooking, often served with biscuits and cornbread. The fusion of honey butter with Old Bay shrimp is a modern twist that celebrates both coastal traditions and Southern comfort food.

Benefits

  • Quick and Easy: Takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
  • Flavorful Balance: Sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in harmony.
  • Nutritious: Shrimp is high in protein, low in calories, and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Versatile: Can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.

Formation (Flavor Profile)

  • Sweetness: Honey adds a caramelized richness.
  • Creaminess: Butter creates a silky coating for the shrimp.
  • Savory Spice: Old Bay adds depth, heat, and a coastal seafood essence.
  • Freshness: Lemon juice and zest brighten the flavors.
  • Aromatic: Garlic ties everything together with warmth.

Conclusion

Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is a dish that perfectly marries tradition with modern taste. It’s bold yet balanced, quick to make yet elegant enough for entertaining. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, a main dish, or even tucked into tacos, it’s a recipe that always leaves people wanting more.

For the Lovers of This Dish

  • Seafood lovers enjoy its bold coastal flavors.
  • Spice lovers appreciate the kick of Old Bay.
  • Sweet-savory lovers find the honey butter glaze irresistible.
  • Quick meal lovers treasure its fast preparation.

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