15-Minute Low-Carb Butter Garlic Shrimp & Green Beans

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Let’s talk about those nights when you’re staring into your fridge at 6 PM, trying to conjure up something that’s both healthy and satisfying.

After a particularly hectic Monday at work last week, I found myself in this exact situation, with a package of shrimp that needed to be used and a drawer full of green beans.

Here’s the thing about keeping up with low-carb eating – it doesn’t have to mean endless chicken breasts and lettuce wraps.

Sometimes, it means treating yourself to succulent shrimp swimming in garlicky butter sauce alongside crisp-tender green beans that actually make you excited about eating your vegetables.

I’ve been experimenting with this butter garlic shrimp recipe for a while now, but it wasn’t until I added za’atar (my latest spice cabinet obsession) that it really sang.

If you haven’t discovered za’atar yet, it’s this beautiful Middle Eastern spice blend that adds a subtle earthiness that perfectly complements the brightness of lemon and garlic.

Don’t worry if you can’t find it though – the dish stands perfectly well on its own without it.

The key to making this dish spectacular lies in two simple tricks. First, don’t overcrowd your pan when cooking the shrimp.

Yes, it means cooking in batches, and yes, it’s worth those extra few minutes.

Overcrowded shrimp steam rather than sear, and we’re going for that perfect golden butter-basted exterior here.

Second, the green beans should still have some bite to them.

We’re not aiming for the mushy green beans of cafeteria nightmares – these should be vibrant and crisp-tender.

When they turn that perfect bright green colour, that’s your signal.

What I love most about this recipe is how it fits into real life. It’s fancy enough to serve to guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

The entire thing comes together in about 15 minutes, dirties just one pan, and still manages to feel like something you’d order at a restaurant.

And let’s talk about that sauce – the combination of butter, garlic, and lemon creates this luxurious coating that makes everything it touches taste better.

I’ve started keeping a jar of minced garlic in my fridge (don’t judge) just so I can throw this together without having to pull out my cutting board.

For my fellow meal preppers out there – while this is best served fresh, it actually reheats surprisingly well for lunch the next day.

Just be careful not to overcook the shrimp initially if you’re planning on reheating.

So the next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, give this a try.

It’s proof that low-carb doesn’t mean low on flavour, and that a few simple ingredients can transform into something delicious.

Low-Carb Butter Garlic Shrimp and Green Beans (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large lemon, juiced
• 1.5 teaspoons za’atar seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but remain crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Return the green beans to the skillet with the shrimp. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, za’atar (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
6. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
7. Serve immediately, dividing the shrimp and green beans equally among four plates. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.