Are you ready for a quick and tasty dinner? Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is packed with flavor and easy to make. In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this delightful dish. With fresh shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and a rich garlic butter sauce, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (optional, for serving)
Measurement Guide
When measuring the ingredients, use a kitchen scale for the shrimp. A pound is about 16-20 large shrimp. For the broccoli, use a measuring cup to get two cups of florets. The butter should be measured in tablespoons. Fresh garlic is best, so chop four cloves finely. The red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your spice level. Use a tablespoon for the lemon juice to add brightness. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For garnish, chop two tablespoons of parsley. If you want to serve it with grains, one cup of cooked quinoa or rice works well.
Optional Ingredients
You can add other veggies too. Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can mix well. If you like a richer sauce, try adding a splash of white wine while cooking. For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk. You can also try different herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh twist. These changes can make the dish feel new and exciting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients. You need:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (optional)
Next, blanch the broccoli. Boil water in a pot and add salt. Place the broccoli in the water for 2-3 minutes. The broccoli should look bright green and be tender but still crisp. Drain it and set it aside. This step helps keep the broccoli vibrant.
Cooking Process
Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about one minute. You want the garlic to smell nice but not brown.
Then, add the shrimp. Spread them in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. This shows they are done. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
After the shrimp are cooked, stir in the blanched broccoli. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice. Toss everything gently until the butter melts and coats the shrimp and broccoli well.
Tips for Proper Cooking
Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This helps the shrimp cook evenly. If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in batches.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh garlic and shrimp will make a big difference.
Don’t skip the lemon juice. It brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
If you want some heat, adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking. You can add more if you enjoy spicy food.
For a nice finish, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top before serving. This adds color and freshness.
For the full recipe, you can check the earlier section in this article.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your garlic butter shrimp and broccoli pop, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic gives a strong taste. You can also add lemon zest for extra brightness. Want a kick? Try more red pepper flakes. A splash of soy sauce can deepen the flavor too.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp
Cook shrimp fast to keep them juicy. Heat your skillet on medium. Add butter and let it melt. Then, toss in the garlic. When the garlic smells good, add the shrimp. Cook them just until pink. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery. Flip them once for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your dish over cooked quinoa or rice. This adds a nice base. You can also garnish with fresh parsley. It makes the dish look great. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple salad. Enjoy your meal with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps provided.
Variations
Different Vegetable Options
You can change the veggies in this dish. Try snap peas, bell peppers, or asparagus. These options add color and crunch. You can also use spinach for a softer texture. The key is to pick veggies you enjoy. They all work well with the garlic butter sauce.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. For less spice, use just a pinch. You can also replace red pepper flakes with mild paprika. This keeps the flavor but reduces heat. Taste as you cook to find the right balance.
Alternative Sauces and Add-ins
You can switch up the sauce for a new taste. Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce gives it an Asian flair. Adding a splash of white wine can enhance the flavor too. For creaminess, mix in some heavy cream or sour cream. These changes keep the dish exciting and fun. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. It can stay in the fridge for up to three days. Before you eat it again, check for any signs of spoilage. If it smells off or looks strange, toss it out.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli, but it’s best to do it right after cooking. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This dish can last in the freezer for about one month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals. This helps ensure even heating without overcooking the shrimp. Enjoy your flavorful delight from the Full Recipe!
FAQs
How long does Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli last?
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli lasts up to three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. If you notice any off smell or color, it’s best to discard it.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and broccoli, then cool them. Store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat in a pan or microwave until warm. This makes meal prep easy and fun!
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?
You can serve this dish with several sides. Here are some great options:
– Cooked quinoa
– Steamed rice
– Garlic bread
– A fresh salad
These sides add variety and make a complete meal.
Is Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli healthy?
Yes, this dish is healthy. Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories. Broccoli adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Use less butter to reduce calories. This way, you can enjoy a tasty meal without guilt.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw them before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. This saves time and makes cooking easier.
What variations can I try?
You can try many variations for this dish. Swap broccoli for other veggies like:
– Asparagus
– Bell peppers
– Snap peas
This adds new flavors and colors. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, cheese can add a creamy touch. Sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before serving. It melts beautifully and adds flavor. Just remember, cheese adds extra calories. Enjoy in moderation!
What is the best way to reheat Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?
The best way is to reheat in a skillet. This keeps the shrimp tender and broccoli crisp. Heat over medium-low heat until warm. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe.
This blog post outlines all you need for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli. We covered key ingredients, measurement guidelines, and optional items to enhance your dish. The step-by-step instructions ensure you prepare and cook with confidence. I shared tips to boost flavor and serving ideas that impress.
Remember to store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh. With the right techniques and variations, you can customize this dish to your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
