Satisfy Your Cravings: Learn How To Make Succulent Shrimp And Broccoli In A Flash

When hunger strikes, few meals can compete with a hearty skillet filled with tender shrimp and vibrant broccoli florets glazed in a savory sauce. This dynamic duo provides the perfect protein and veggie combo to keep you feeling full and energized. Best of all, it comes together in just 15 minutes!

Keep reading to learn how to prepare broccoli and shrimp made simple, with helpful tips for elevating this basic stir fry. We’ll also answer common questions to help you get restaurant-worthy results right in your home kitchen.

Benefits Of Cooking Shrimp And Broccoli

Part of what makes shrimp and broccoli such a winning recipe combination is that they pack a nutritional punch Broccoli is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants to support a healthy immune system. It also provides fiber for better digestion.

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins and minerals like selenium and iodine. Protein helps maintain and repair muscles while minerals strengthen bones and boost thyroid health. Together shrimp and broccoli check all the boxes for a well-balanced meal.

Another reason this duo works so well is the contrast of flavors and textures. The sweet brininess of shrimp complements the slight bitter notes in broccoli. The soft crunch of broccoli florets next to the bouncy, buttery shrimp creates an appealing mouthfeel.

Finally, the meal-in-one convenience can’t be beat! In less than 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying entrée loaded with nutritious veggies and protein ready to fuel your body. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Step-By-Step Instructions For Making Shrimp And Broccoli

Get ready to master this easy skillet meal with these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil and red pepper flakes (if using). Set sauce aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Transfer cooked shrimp to a plate.

3. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until bright green and slightly softened but still crisp.

4. Push broccoli to the sides of the skillet. Add garlic to the center and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Return shrimp to the skillet and add prepared sauce. Toss everything together until broccoli is evenly coated. Cook for 1-2 minutes more until sauce is thickened.

6. Serve shrimp and broccoli stir fry immediately, garnished with sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!

Tips:

• Look for raw, shell on shrimp for maximum flavor and juice retention when cooking.

• Cut broccoli florets smaller for quicker cooking time. Stems can be saved for another use.

• Substitute calamari or scallops for the shrimp if desired.

• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

• Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra veggie goodness.

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Shrimp And Broccoli

If you’re new to making this classic stir fry combo, you probably have a few questions. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

How do I know when the shrimp is done cooking?

Check for an opaque, pinkish-white color throughout. Shrimp transitions quickly from raw to cooked through, usually 1-3 minutes per side depending on size. Take care not to overcook or the shrimp will become rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thawed frozen shrimp works fine, just pat dry before cooking to avoid steaming. Cook frozen shrimp for a minute or two longer than fresh.

What if I can’t find broccoli florets?

You can use broccoli slaw mix or chop broccoli crowns into small pieces. Just adjust cooking time as needed for softer or crunchier texture.

How can I upgrade this simple meal?

Consider adding aromatics like grated ginger, chili flakes, or green onions. A splash of sesame oil enhances flavor. Serve over rice or Asian noodles. Top with toasted sesame seeds, peanuts, or fresh herbs.

What should I serve with shrimp and broccoli?

Some tasty pairings include rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice, noodles, greens like bok choy, and bright citrus wedges. Garlic bread also makes a nice accompaniment.

Can I swap or add other veggies?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, asparagus, green beans, and water chestnuts all taste fantastic when stir-fried with shrimp.

Satisfy Your Cravings With More Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes

Once you master the easy weeknight version, try experimenting with these tasty recipe twists:

• Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil – Roast shrimp and broccoli with sausage, corn, and potatoes

• Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta – Toss with linguine and a lemon garlic cream sauce

• Broccoli and Shrimp Fried Rice – Stir fry with eggs, peas, and carrots for a meal in a bowl

• Cheesy Shrimp and Broccoli Casserole – For a comforting baked dish

• Shrimp and Broccoli Soup – Purée some florets for a thick, creamy base

The options are endless when it comes to repurposing these main ingredients into yummy new dishes. Let your creativity run wild in the kitchen!

With this handy guide, you can look forward to enjoying tender shrimp nestled among fresh, vibrant broccoli any night of the week. Your tastebuds will thank you for whipping up this restaurant-worthy meal at home with little time and effort. Get ready to impress yourself and any lucky guests with your flawless execution of this classic pairing.