Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Asian Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, boasts vibrant colors, and is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or easy recipes that don't compromise on taste. Get ready to enjoy a burst of fresh flavors with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Prepare your ingredients. Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Slice the red bell pepper and green onions. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. This step makes the cooking process much smoother.
Cook the Shrimp and Veggies:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the broccoli and bell pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Make the Sauce and Combine:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli and bell pepper in the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat everything in the delicious sauce.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Asian Shrimp and Broccoli:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a more filling and nutritious meal.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.
- Use different protein: Chicken or tofu can be substituted for the shrimp.
- Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This recipe is a great example of healthy meals that are also quick and easy to prepare. It's a fantastic option for a delicious and nutritious weeknight dinner, perfect for those looking for best recipes that are both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy!