Description
Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli is a light yet flavorful dish that perfectly combines succulent shrimp and vibrant, tender-crisp broccoli. The shrimp are sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, infusing them with rich, savory flavors, while the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly earthy contrast. A touch of lemon juice and seasonings elevate the dish, giving it a bright, zesty finish. Simple yet satisfying, this dish is a healthy, low-carb option that’s full of flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light, protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to make Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head of broccoli)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or halal butter alternative)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: Shrimp is a rich source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12 and iodine. It is naturally low in fat and calories, making it an ideal addition to a balanced meal.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is a low-calorie vegetable that is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It provides important nutrients that support your immune system and overall health.
- Garlic: Garlic is not only aromatic and flavorful, but it also offers numerous health benefits, such as boosting heart health and enhancing immune function.
- Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich and flavorful sauce while providing healthy fats, especially when using olive oil, which is high in monounsaturated fats.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Prep the Shrimp: If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help them cook evenly.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. You can also slice the stems into small pieces if you prefer. Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes in boiling water until tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside. (Alternatively, you can sauté the broccoli in the pan with the shrimp if you prefer a more integrated flavor.)
Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat the Pan: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Make the Garlic Butter: In the same pan, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Combine the Shrimp and Broccoli:
- Add the Shrimp and Broccoli: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, followed by the steamed broccoli florets. Toss everything together until the shrimp and broccoli are evenly coated with the garlic butter sauce. Stir gently to combine and heat everything through for another 2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
- Serve: Transfer the garlic shrimp and broccoli to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with a side of rice, pasta, or your favorite low-carb alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 30g