Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice

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Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is a flavorful, healthy dish that combines juicy, succulent shrimp with a rich, garlic butter sauce, all served over a bed of vibrant, nutritious broccoli rice. This meal is a perfect balance of savory, buttery shrimp and light, low-carb broccoli rice, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a satisfying, yet healthy dinner. The dish is quick to prepare, easy to customize, and full of bold, garlicky flavor that will leave you craving more.

I remember the first time I made this for a weeknight dinner. The kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering scent of garlic and butter, and the shrimp cooked up perfectly tender. What’s great about this dish is how customizable it is—you can add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or adjust the seasoning to your liking with a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs. And the broccoli rice is a fantastic low-carb alternative to regular rice, adding both texture and nutrition to the meal.

This dish is surprisingly simple to make, too. With just a few ingredients, you can have this healthy and indulgent meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch after a busy day or something special to serve to guests, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is sure to impress!

Perfect for:

  • Weekend lunch
  • Healthy meal prep
  • Low-carb or keto diets
  • Quick and easy meals
  • Seafood lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice will become a go-to in your kitchen:

  • Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce: The shrimp is cooked in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that coats every bite, delivering a burst of flavor.
  • Healthy and Low-Carb: The broccoli rice is a nutrient-packed, low-carb alternative to traditional rice, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious homemade meal.
  • Packed with Protein and Vegetables: With shrimp as the main protein and broccoli providing fiber and vitamins, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, add extra vegetables, or even make it spicier with some chili flakes or hot sauce.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice:

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

For the Broccoli Rice:

  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: High in protein, low in fat, and quick to cook, making it the perfect base for this dish.
  • Broccoli: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, broccoli rice is a healthy, low-carb alternative to regular rice.
  • Butter and Garlic: The rich butter and aromatic garlic provide the essential flavor base for the shrimp.
  • Parmesan: Adds a touch of umami and creaminess to the broccoli rice, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice:

Prepare the Broccoli Rice:

  1. Process the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, chop the florets into smaller pieces. Pulse the broccoli florets in a food processor until it resembles rice-sized grains. If using frozen broccoli, simply thaw and chop into small pieces.
  2. Cook the Broccoli Rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the broccoli rice, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and cooked through. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

  1. Cook the Shrimp: In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
  2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown. If using, add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  3. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the shrimp in the sauce, coating them well. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are fully coated in the buttery garlic sauce.

Serve the Dish:

  1. Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
  2. Serve: Enjoy immediately, and serve with additional lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve

  • With Extra Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to make it a more complete meal.
  • With a Side of Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
  • For a Light Meal: This dish is light and filling on its own, perfect for a low-calorie dinner.
  • Pair with Wine: A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the richness of the shrimp and garlic butter sauce.

Additional Tips

  • Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture. Make sure to not overcook them as they can become tough.
  • Broccoli Rice Texture: If you prefer a softer texture for your broccoli rice, you can sauté it longer or steam it.
  • Customize with Spices: Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up.
  • Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep—store the shrimp and broccoli rice separately for up to 2-3 days in the fridge.

Recipe Variations

  1. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Cauliflower Rice – For a lower-carb option, swap broccoli rice with cauliflower rice.
  2. Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Rice – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the spice.
  3. Coconut Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Rice – Use coconut oil for a tropical twist.
  4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Rice – Substitute zucchini rice for the broccoli rice for a different texture.
  5. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Spinach Rice – Sauté spinach with the broccoli for added greens and nutrition.
  6. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Asparagus Rice – Use asparagus instead of broccoli for a more elegant variation.
  7. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Avocado Rice – Add avocado for a creamy, satisfying rice alternative.
  8. Herb Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice – Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter sauce for a fragrant twist.
  9. Bacon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice – Crisp up some bacon and mix it into the broccoli rice for a smoky flavor.
  10. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sweet Potato Rice – Try swapping in sweet potato rice for a sweeter, nutrient-packed rice alternative.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the shrimp and broccoli rice separately for up to 1-2 months. Thaw before reheating.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Special Equipment

  • Food processor for making broccoli rice
  • Large skillet for cooking shrimp
  • Tongs for flipping shrimp

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
  2. Can I use regular rice instead of broccoli rice? Yes, you can use cooked rice if you’re not following a low-carb or keto diet.
  3. Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the dish.
  4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can store the components separately for meal prep.
  5. Can I make it spicier? Yes, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the shrimp.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With succulent shrimp cooked in rich garlic butter and paired with nutrient-packed broccoli rice, this dish is both satisfying and light. It’s a quick and easy recipe, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a delicious dinner when you’re craving something healthy yet indulgent.

This meal is low-carb, packed with flavor, and full of nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a lighter dinner without compromising on taste. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply want a fresh, flavorful dish, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is sure to become a favorite!

I’d love to see how your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy your healthy and satisfying meal!

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