Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli is a perfect choice! This dish combines juicy shrimp, fresh broccoli, and a sweet garlic sauce in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy parent or just want a simple meal, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. Get ready to impress your family with this easy yet delicious dinner that packs flavor and nutrition in every bite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
Sauce Ingredients
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 4 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium for healthier option)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Additional Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
For this honey garlic shrimp and broccoli dish, the ingredients shine. Fresh shrimp and broccoli create a vibrant look and taste. The honey and soy sauce mix adds a sweet and savory twist, while garlic and ginger offer a punch of flavor.
I like to use large shrimp for this recipe. They cook quickly and soak up the sauce well. Broccoli adds color and crunch. You can also mix in other vegetables if you want.
For the sauce, honey brings sweetness, while soy sauce adds umami. Fresh garlic and ginger make the dish fragrant and lively. To thicken the sauce, I use cornstarch mixed with water. This helps the sauce cling to the shrimp and broccoli.
Don’t forget to garnish! Sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only look good but also add extra flavor. These simple ingredients make this meal quick, easy, and delicious. You can find the full recipe above for all the details!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Shrimp
– Mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger in a bowl.
– Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Marinating adds flavor and tenderness to the shrimp. The honey gives a touch of sweetness while the soy sauce adds a savory note. Garlic and ginger provide a lovely kick. This step is key for a delicious meal.
Preparing the Broccoli
– Steam the broccoli florets until they are bright green and tender.
– Set the broccoli aside to keep it warm.
Steaming keeps the broccoli crisp and vibrant. You want it tender but still crunchy. This adds great texture to your dish. Plus, the bright green color makes it visually appealing.
Cooking the Shrimp and Sauce
– Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp.
– Add the reserved marinade and the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
– Combine the shrimp and broccoli in the pan and heat everything through.
Cooking shrimp only takes a few minutes. When shrimp turns pink and opaque, it’s done. Adding the marinade and cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it rich and tasty. Toss everything together to coat it well in the sauce. This dish truly shines at this stage.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above. Enjoy your cooking!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sauce
To make the sauce just right, you can adjust the honey and soy sauce. If you like it sweeter, add more honey. For a saltier taste, increase the soy sauce. Fresh garlic and ginger bring out the best flavors, so always use them.
Cooking Techniques
Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. This keeps them tender and juicy. If you have a wok, use it! A wok can give you a nice stir-fry experience. It helps the shrimp and broccoli cook evenly and quickly.
Serving Suggestions
When you serve the dish, use a large platter. This makes it look great. Drizzle extra sauce over the top to add shine. You can pair this meal with steamed rice or quinoa. These sides make it filling and complete. For the full recipe, check the details above.
Variations
Vegetable Additions
You can add more veggies to this dish. Bell peppers, snap peas, and bok choy bring color and nutrition. They also add crunch and flavor. If you’re short on time, use frozen broccoli. It cooks fast and works great in this recipe.
Protein Alternatives
Not in the mood for shrimp? You can easily substitute it with chicken, tofu, or beef. Each protein brings its unique taste. Just remember, the cook time may change. Chicken and beef need a bit longer to cook, while tofu cooks quickly.
Sauce Modifications
Want to spice things up? Add sriracha for a spicy kick. It adds heat and depth to the dish. If you have dietary needs, use gluten-free soy sauce. It keeps the flavor while meeting your requirements. This flexibility makes the meal more enjoyable for everyone.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This helps keep the shrimp tender and the broccoli crisp.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This method helps maintain the flavors and texture of the dish.
Best Practices
For best quality, store shrimp and broccoli separately. This keeps the broccoli from getting too soft. Also, avoid reheating multiple times. Each time you reheat, the dish loses some of its charm and fresh taste.
FAQs
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp should be pink and opaque; approximately 2-3 minutes on each side. When shrimp turns from gray to pink, it’s time to take them off the heat. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so watch closely.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure they are thawed and patted dry before marinating. This step helps the marinade stick better and improves flavor. For best results, thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or under cold running water.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli?
Serve over rice, quinoa, or with noodles for a complete meal. You could also add a side salad for extra crunch. Pairing with these options adds healthy carbs and rounds out your dish nicely.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it combines lean protein with vegetables and can be made low-sodium. Using low-sodium soy sauce cuts down on salt without losing flavor. This dish provides good nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. Check out the full recipe for more details!
This blog post shared a tasty recipe for Honey Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli. You learned about the main ingredients, sauce details, and cooking tips. I emphasized keeping shrimp tender and suggested easy variations and storage tips. Cooking at home saves money and can be good for your health. I hope you enjoy making this quick and healthy meal! Remember, cooking should be fun and easy. Try new ingredients and make it your own. Enjoy each bite!
