Looking for a quick and healthy meal? This shrimp and broccoli recipe is perfect. Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a delicious, satisfying dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. With tender shrimp and crisp broccoli, it’s a tasty way to enjoy a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Choose Shrimp and Broccoli?
Combining shrimp and broccoli in your meals offers a delightful fusion of taste and health benefits. Here’s why this pairing stands out:
Nutritional Benefits
High Protein Content in Shrimp
Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, providing about 20 grams per 3-ounce serving. This high protein content supports muscle development and keeps you feeling full longer.[1]
Vitamins and Fiber in Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in essential vitamins like C and K, and it’s packed with dietary fiber. A one-cup serving offers significant amounts of these nutrients, aiding digestion and supporting immune function.[2]
Flavor Combination
Sweetness of Shrimp Meets Earthiness of Broccoli
The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs beautifully with the earthy tones of broccoli. This combination creates a balanced and satisfying flavor profile that’s both light and savory.
Dietary Advantages
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
For those monitoring carbohydrate intake, shrimp and broccoli are excellent choices. Both are low in carbs, making this duo suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.[3]
Incorporating shrimp and broccoli recipe into your meals not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutritional value, aligning with various dietary preferences and health goals.
Ingredients Needed
Creating a flavorful shrimp and broccoli recipe begins with gathering fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Components
- Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp work well.
- Broccoli Florets: Choose vibrant green florets, cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Sauce Elements
- Soy Sauce: Provides a savory base. Low-sodium versions help control salt levels.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and subtle sweetness.
- Sesame Oil: Imparts a nutty aroma. Use toasted sesame oil for richer flavor.
Aromatics and Seasonings
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic enhances the dish’s aroma.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger offers a zesty kick.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to your spice preference for a hint of heat.
Additional Ingredients
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to the shrimp and broccoli.
- Chicken Broth: Serves as the liquid base for the sauce, adding depth.
- Vegetable Oil: Suitable for high-heat cooking like stir-frying.
By assembling these ingredients, you’re set to create a delicious shrimp and broccoli recipe stir-fry. This dish balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes, making it a delightful meal option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation Steps
Cleaning and Cutting Broccoli
- Rinse broccoli under cold water.
- Cut into uniform florets for even cooking.
Marinating Shrimp with Seasonings
- Pat shrimp dry.
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Cooking Process
Stir-Frying Shrimp Until Pink
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the meat is no longer pink and appears opaque.
- Remove shrimp and set aside.
Cooking Broccoli to Tender-Crisp
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.
- Add broccoli florets.
- Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Combining Ingredients
Mixing Shrimp and Broccoli with Sauce
- If necessary, add a little more oil to the same skillet.
- Pour prepared sauce over the mixture.
Ensuring Even Coating and Flavor Absorption
- Toss ingredients to ensure even coating.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious shrimp and broccoli recipe stir-fry that’s both quick and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your shrimp and broccoli recipe with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some thoughtful suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Accompaniments
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant aroma and soft texture provide a delightful base for the savory shrimp and broccoli recipe.
- Quinoa: A nutritious alternative, quinoa offers a slightly nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, complementing the main dish beautifully.
Garnishing Ideas
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds adds a subtle crunch and a hint of nuttiness, enriching each bite.
- Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions introduce a burst of color and a mild, zesty flavor that brightens the overall taste.
Beverage Pairing
- Green Tea: Enjoying a cup of green tea alongside your meal not only complements the flavors but also offers numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, green tea supports heart health, aids digestion, and provides a gentle energy boost. Studies suggest that regular consumption may also reduce the risk of chronic diseases.[4][5]
By thoughtfully selecting these pairings, you create a harmonious and satisfying meal that delights the senses and nourishes the body.
Tips and Variations
Enhance your shrimp and broccoli recipe stir-fry by incorporating these thoughtful tips and variations, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Alternative Vegetables
While shrimp and broccoli recipe are a classic combination, feel free to experiment with other vegetables to diversify your stir-fry:
- Bell Peppers: Add vibrant color and a sweet crunch by including red, yellow, or green bell peppers.
- Snap Peas: Introduce a fresh, crisp texture that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
- Carrots: Thinly sliced carrots provide a subtle sweetness and additional crunch.
- Mushrooms: Sliced shiitake or button mushrooms can add an earthy flavor to your dish.
Incorporating these vegetables not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
Flavor Enhancements
Elevate the taste of your stir-fry with these simple additions:
- Lemon Zest: Grated lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus aroma and brightness that complements the shrimp.
- Chili Sauce: A touch of chili sauce introduces a pleasant heat, balancing the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Garlic and Ginger: Sautéing minced garlic and ginger at the start infuses the oil with aromatic flavors, forming a flavorful base for your stir-fry.
These enhancements allow you to customize the dish to your palate, creating a more personalized culinary experience.
Dietary Modifications
If you’re aiming for a gluten-free version of this shrimp and broccoli recipe, consider the following substitutions:
- Tamari Sauce: Opt for tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative made with water, soybeans, salt, and sometimes sugar. Brands like Kikkoman offer gluten-free tamari options.[6]
- Coconut Aminos: For a soy-free and gluten-free option, coconut aminos provide a slightly sweeter and less salty flavor compared to soy sauce.[7]
Always check the labels when selecting these products to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
By incorporating these tips and variations, you can create a shrimp and broccoli recipe that aligns with your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and satisfying addition to your culinary repertoire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this shrimp and broccoli recipe offers a delightful blend of simplicity and health benefits. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious meal without hassle. Feel free to personalize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. We’d love to hear about your experiences and any unique twists you’ve added. Share your feedback and variations in the comments below. Happy cooking.
shrimp and broccoli recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1½ pounds broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water slurry
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp and Broccoli:
- o Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green; drain and set aside.
- o Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
Cook the Shrimp:
- o Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- o Add shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- o Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
- o In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon canola oil.
- o Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce:
- o Add chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet.
- o Bring to a simmer.
- o Stir in cornstarch slurry; cook until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Combine and Serve:
- o Return shrimp and broccoli to the skillet.
- o Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- o Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
- o Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Calories: Approximately 287
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Is Shrimp with Broccoli Healthy?
What Does Broccoli Pair Well With?
Broccoli’s versatility makes it a great match for various ingredients, including:
Proteins: Chicken, beef, shrimp, and tofu.
Grains: Rice, quinoa, and pasta.
Sauces: Cheese sauce, garlic butter, and soy-based sauces.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, and sesame seeds.
What Tastes Good with Shrimp?
Shrimp’s mild sweetness pairs well with:
Fruits: Mango, pineapple, and citrus.
Vegetables: Garlic, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
Herbs and Spices: Basil, cilantro, chili flakes, and paprika.
Grains and Breads: Risotto, couscous, and crusty bread.
Should You Cook Broccoli Before Stir-Frying?
It’s not necessary to pre-cook broccoli before stir-frying. Cooking it briefly in the stir-fry helps preserve its nutrients and achieve a tender-crisp texture.
Can I Fry Broccoli Without Boiling It?
Yes, you can fry broccoli without boiling it first. Stir-frying raw broccoli florets allows them to cook quickly while retaining their crunch and nutrients.
Do I Need to Boil Broccoli Before Cooking?
Boiling broccoli before cooking is optional. For methods like stir-frying, sautéing, or roasting, it’s best to use raw broccoli to maintain its texture and nutritional value.
Which cooking method is best for broccoli?
Steaming or stir-frying are excellent methods for cooking broccoli. Steaming preserves its nutrients, while stir-frying enhances its flavor and texture.
How long should broccoli be cooked?
Broccoli should be cooked for 4-5 minutes if steaming, or 2-3 minutes if stir-frying, to keep it crisp-tender and retain its vibrant color.
Why add milk to boiling water for broccoli?
Adding milk to boiling water helps preserve the green color of broccoli and reduces the loss of nutrients during cooking. It also enhances the texture.
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