The moment you lay eyes on a Seafood Platter with Lemon, Herb & Garlic Butter, you know it’s going to be a good day. Imagine freshly steamed clams, plump shrimp, and delicate crab legs glistening under a drizzle of butter so rich it could make a steak cry. The aroma? A heavenly blend of zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and the unmistakable allure of garlic that dances through your kitchen like a well-rehearsed ballet. shrimp and broccoli foil packs This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that makes you want to gather friends, pop open some chilled white wine, and dive into the ocean’s bounty.
I remember the first time I whipped up this seafood extravaganza for my family. My cousin almost did a backflip when he saw the spread. It was as if I had summoned Poseidon himself to deliver dinner. We spent the evening cracking shells and sharing stories, all while savoring the delightful flavors bursting from every bite. comforting turkey soup Whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a casual weekend get-together, this platter steals the show every single time.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Seafood Platter with Lemon, Herb & Garlic Butter is easy to prepare yet impressively elegant. The vibrant colors and luscious aromas make it visually appealing at any gathering. Perfect for special occasions but versatile enough for a cozy night in. The combination of seafood flavors with herb-infused butter creates an unforgettable taste sensation.[/info_box]
Sharing this recipe with my friends always leads to laughter and plenty of compliments about my culinary prowess. air fryer tandoori turkey.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp; they provide satisfying bites and are perfect for grilling or steaming.
Clams: Look for fresh clams that feel heavy in their shells; they should close tightly when tapped.
Crab Legs: Choose pre-cooked crab legs for convenience; they only need reheating and are sweet and succulent.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are key; their juice brightens flavors and adds refreshing acidity to balance richness. For more inspiration, check out this simple lemon caper sauce recipe.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves; nothing compares to their aromatic punch compared to jarred alternatives.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Thyme): These add vibrant color and aromatic depth; always opt for fresh over dried.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here; it allows you better control over seasoning in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this classic appetizer recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Get Your Seafood Ready: Start by rinsing your shrimp and clams under cold water. This step ensures they’re clean and ready for cooking without any grit ruining your feast.
Prepare the Flavorful Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter slowly until it starts bubbling gently. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute—taking care not to let it brown.
Add Fresh Herbs and Lemon Juice: Stir in chopped parsley and thyme along with freshly squeezed lemon juice into your butter mixture. Let these flavors meld together while making your kitchen smell divine.
Cook the Seafood to Perfection: In a large pot or steamer basket set over boiling water, add your clams first since they take longer to cook. After about 3 minutes, add shrimp on top of the clams for another 4-5 minutes until everything is opaque and tender.
Pile It All Together on a Platter!: Carefully transfer everything onto an impressive serving platter while ensuring all those delicious juices aren’t left behind! Drizzle your herb-garlic butter generously over the seafood before serving.
Enjoy this mouthwatering Seafood Platter with Lemon, Herb & Garlic Butter surrounded by friends or family—and don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up that incredible sauce! cranberry orange sauce.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] The seafood platter with lemon, herb & garlic butter is a feast for the senses. This recipe not only impresses guests but also brings a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for any gathering. Remember, fresh seafood makes all the difference! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your seafood and butter mix. Sear the seafood for a rich flavor, then toss in the herb and garlic butter to finish cooking while absorbing all those savory flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your seafood selection or add spices like paprika or chili flakes. A splash of white wine can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture; avoid overcooking.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use quality seafood for best results; freshness enhances flavor and texture significantly. Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can elevate your dish. Pair with a crisp white wine for an unbeatable experience that complements every bite. [/info_box]
Sharing this platter at my sister’s wedding made me realize how much joy good food brings people together. The laughter and compliments were enough to make any chef blush!
FAQ
What types of seafood work best for a platter?
Combine shrimp, scallops, mussels, and crab for a delightful variety.
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How do I know when the seafood is cooked through?
Seafood should be opaque and firm to touch; overcooking makes it tough.
Seafood Platter with Lemon, Herb & Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a vibrant Seafood Platter featuring freshly steamed clams, succulent shrimp, and sweet crab legs, all drizzled with a luscious lemon, herb, and garlic butter. This dish transforms any gathering into a gourmet experience. Perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights at home, it’s a feast that delights the senses and brings people together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
- 1 lb fresh clams (cleaned)
- 1 lb pre-cooked crab legs (thawed)
- 2 lemons (juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
Instructions
- Rinse shrimp and clams under cold water.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped parsley, thyme, and lemon juice; mix well.
- In a large pot or steamer basket over boiling water, add clams first; cook for about 3 minutes.
- Add shrimp on top of clams; cook until opaque (4-5 minutes).
- Transfer seafood to a serving platter and drizzle with the herb-garlic butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 platter serving (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
