This tasty dish brings together shrimp and broccoli, all dressed in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Honestly, who could resist buttery garlic goodness? I like to serve it over rice or pasta, and let’s be real, I always end up licking the plate clean! 😄
This meal is so simple that I can whip it up in no time when I’m hungry. Just toss everything in the pan and enjoy a delicious plate that’s ready in minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them properly. If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute with chicken or firm tofu for a different protein boost.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal for this dish, but you can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have. You could also swap in other veggies like asparagus, snap peas, or bell peppers if you’re looking to mix things up!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic delivers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use less—about 1/2 teaspoon should do. I love using more garlic, so feel free to add adapt to your taste.
Butter: While unsalted butter is recommended for more control over salt levels, you can swap it for olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Each choice brings a unique flavor!
How Do You Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:
- Use medium heat to avoid overcooking. Shrimp should turn pink and form a slightly golden crust.
- If they curl tightly, they might be overcooked—look for them to stay a bit straight.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they turn opaque; they keep cooking from their own heat!
Following this method not only ensures a great texture but also locks in flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making a total of 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal when you’re craving something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Broccoli:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain a crisp texture. When done, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Melt the Butter & Cook Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Stir and sauté for about 1 minute or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2 minutes until they are cooked through and have a nice color.
4. Combine & Finish Off:
Once the shrimp are cooked, return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine and coat the shrimp and broccoli in that delicious garlic butter sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and give it a final stir.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately, enjoying the meal on its own, or over a bed of rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Dig in and savor the flavors!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I Substitute Broccoli with Another Vegetable?
Yes, you can easily swap the broccoli for other vegetables like snap peas, asparagus, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose, so adjust accordingly for the best texture.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, pasta, or even quinoa. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy customizing your meal!
