Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Welcome to today’s elegant and mouthwatering dish—Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli! This delightful recipe pairs succulent shrimp with tender broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, tangy lemon butter garlic sauce. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In this blog post, we will explore the origins of the recipe, provide you with a complete ingredients list, and guide you through step-by-step cooking directions. Plus, we have a frequently asked questions section to help you with any queries. Let’s dive in!
The Origins of the Recipe
The origins of shrimp dishes can be traced back to various coastal regions worldwide, where fresh seafood was a staple. Garlic and butter are common flavor profiles in many cuisines, particularly in Italian and French cooking. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter can be traced to Mediterranean cooking, where these ingredients form the base of many delectable sauces.
This particular dish brings together the vibrant flavors of shrimp, the richness of butter, and the freshness of lemon, creating a dish that is fragrant and visually appealing. Broccoli, as a nutritious green vegetable, adds texture and depth to the plate, making this meal as healthy as it is satisfying. Aimed at delivering both taste and simplicity, this recipe has become a favorite in many households around the world.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli
Below is a table with all the ingredients needed for a serving size of 4-6 people:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1.5 pounds |
| Broccoli florets | 4 cups |
| Butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon (optional) |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley (chopped, for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your shrimp is peeled and deveined, and have your broccoli washed and cut into florets. Mince the garlic and zest and juice the lemon.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes. This will make them bright green and slightly tender. Immediately drain and transfer the broccoli into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, stirring frequently. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Add Lemon and Butter
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir well until the butter melts and combines with the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Broccoli
Finally, add the blanched broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the broccoli is well-coated in the lemon butter garlic sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately. This dish is excellent served over rice, pasta, or on its own for a lighter meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly fine. Just be sure to thaw them beforehand by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before use.
2. What can I substitute for broccoli?
If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can substitute it with other vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may require less time to cook.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative. Olive oil is a great substitute that will still provide a rich flavor profile.
There you have it—an easy and delicious Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe that is sure to impress! We hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as we do. Happy cooking!
