Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines succulent shrimp with vibrant broccoli in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe balances flavor and health effortlessly. The unique combination of spices elevates the dish, making it not just satisfying but also a feast for the senses.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Packed: The garlic butter sauce combined with herbs creates an irresistible flavor that makes this dish a winner.
- Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find, making it suitable for any occasion.
- Healthy Choice: Loaded with protein from shrimp and vitamins from broccoli, it’s a balanced meal option that’s good for you.
- Single-Skillet Meal: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on washing dishes.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have the right tools handy. This will streamline your process and enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large non-stick skillet: Prevents food from sticking and allows for easy flipping of shrimp.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for spices and sauces, enhancing the flavor profile of your dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs medium raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
– 1 1/2 lbs broccoli rinsed and cut into florets
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 5 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– Salt and fresh cracked pepper (to taste)
– 1/4 cup vegetable stock
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (your choice)
– Crushed chili pepper flakes (optional)
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Step 1: Sauté the Broccoli
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Sauté until crisp-tender, approximately 4–6 minutes. Once done, set the broccoli aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté for about 1–2 minutes on one side until they begin to turn pink.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients
- Stir in minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder into the shrimp.
- Flip the shrimp to cook on the other side for another minute.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of vegetable stock and add your chosen hot sauce.
- Allow the mixture to simmer briefly while stirring gently to combine flavors.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Broccoli
- Move shrimp to one side of the pan.
- Return sautéed broccoli back into the skillet, mixing it gently into the sauce.
- Drizzle lemon juice over both shrimp and broccoli.
- Cook everything together for an additional 1–2 minutes until reheated.
Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon slices, and optional red pepper flakes before serving immediately! Enjoy this delightful Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli dish!
How to Serve Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Serving Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is a delightful experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Pairing with Rice
- White or Brown Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Quinoa: A healthy alternative that adds a nutty flavor and complements the shrimp well.
Adding Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing side that balances the richness of the shrimp.
- Mixed Green Salad: Light greens with a simple vinaigrette make for a perfect contrast.
Enjoying with Pasta
- Garlic Bread Pasta: Tossed with olive oil, this pasta enhances the garlic flavors in the dish.
- Lemon Herb Fettuccine: Adds a citrusy zing that pairs well with the shrimp.
Serving with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Knots: These savory bites echo the garlic theme of the dish, making them an excellent choice.
How to Perfect Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
To achieve perfection in your Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli, follow these simple tips for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and broccoli elevate the dish’s taste; frozen can work but may alter texture.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of hot sauce or chili flakes based on your heat preference.
- Sauté carefully: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque for optimal texture.
- Add lemon zest: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest before serving.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the dish’s flavor profile.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan for maximum taste and quality.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Complement your Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances your meal while providing balanced flavors.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice pairs wonderfully with shrimp dishes.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory garlic butter.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
- Couscous Salad: A light salad made with couscous, fresh veggies, and a lemon dressing adds freshness.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb option that offers a great base for soaking up any remaining sauce.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a perfect dish every time.
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance flavor and texture. Opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best results.
- Overcooking the broccoli: Sautéing too long can make it mushy. Cook until it’s crisp-tender for the right bite.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to blandness. Season each component as you cook for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the vegetable stock: This ingredient adds depth to the sauce. Don’t omit it; use it to enhance flavors in your dish.
- Not letting the sauce reduce: Allowing time for reduction helps intensify flavors. Be patient; this step is crucial for a rich sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli.
Can I use other vegetables with Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?
Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or asparagus for variety.
How can I make Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli spicier?
Add more hot sauce or crushed chili flakes during cooking for an extra kick.
What’s a good side dish with Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?
Serve it with brown rice or quinoa for a balanced meal that complements the flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal planning.
Final Thoughts
Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is not only quick and easy but also offers incredible flavor while being nutritious. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4
Description
Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe features succulent shrimp paired with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce that is both flavorful and nutritious. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that combines health and taste effortlessly. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is versatile enough to complement any side. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a gourmet touch to your cooking repertoire, this recipe will surely impress.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs medium raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 1/2 lbs broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable stock
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add broccoli florets, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until crisp-tender (about 4–6 minutes). Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until pink.
- Stir in minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Flip shrimp to cook on the other side for another minute.
- Pour in vegetable stock and your choice of hot sauce; simmer briefly while stirring to combine flavors.
- Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet, drizzle lemon juice over both shrimp and broccoli, and cook together for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
