Description
This Seafood Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce is a quick and delicious accompaniment perfect for enhancing the flavor of shrimp, crab legs, lobster, scallops, and other seafood. Made with melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and a blend of optional spices like paprika and red pepper flakes, this sauce combines rich, buttery goodness with zesty and aromatic notes for a flavorful dipping experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Melt the butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted, creating the rich base for your dipping sauce.
- Cook the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but does not brown, ensuring a fresh garlic flavor.
- Season the sauce: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley (if using), paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Remove the sauce from heat and pour into a small serving bowl. Serve immediately alongside your favorite seafood like shrimp, crab legs, lobster, or scallops for a delightful dipping experience.
Notes
- Do not brown the garlic to avoid bitterness; cook just until fragrant.
- Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the butter.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of heat to your preference.
- Best served warm to keep the butter melted for dipping.
- Can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
