<p>Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have gained recognition as intriguing materials for environmental remediation because of their interesting structural features and versatility. Although MOFs are promising materials, synthesizing MOF crystals poses significant challenges. To gain insight into the coordination between metal centers and linkers, obtaining these materials in crystalline form is essential. In this study, we have developed a straightforward amino acid mediated approach for the successful synthesis of zinc-based MOF ((ZnBTC), using 1,3,5-benzene tricarboxylic acid as a linker, in crystalline form. The ZnBTC MOF effectively serves as a Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) substrate for trace detection of Malachite Green (MG) dye, a potential carcinogen and common environmental pollutant, usually found in water bodies. Most significantly, the enhancement factor achieved is as high as 1.17 × 10⁴, with a limit of detection (LOD) down to 10⁻⁸ M. This enhancement is attributed to the adsorption of the dye within the pores of ZnBTC which facilitates charge transfer interactions between them. Our study paves the way for designing and synthesizing ZnBTC MOF crystals and showcases the potential of using MOFs as SERS substrates without the need for additional enhancing agents.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>