Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This pan-seared flounder with garlic shrimp is the perfect solution for a weeknight meal that's both satisfying and impressive. It's packed with flavor, easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy cooks! This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking to a whole new level!
Ingredients:
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For the Flounder:
- 2 (6-ounce) flounder fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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For the Shrimp:
- ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Flounder:
- Season the flounder fillets generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure to season both sides evenly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The skillet should be hot enough that the oil shimmers.
- Carefully place the flounder fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the flounder is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Preparing the Shrimp:
- While the flounder is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining and Serving:
- Once the flounder and shrimp are cooked, you can either serve them separately or combine them on a plate.
- Garnish with extra parsley, a lemon wedge, and a sprinkle of paprika for an added touch. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the flounder and shrimp in batches ensures even cooking and browning.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and shrimp. Always check for doneness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in the taste and quality of the dish.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano.
- Lemon butter sauce: For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter to the shrimp at the end of cooking.
- Add vegetables: Sauté some vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers with the shrimp.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy option. Calorie count and other nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but generally, you can expect a relatively low-calorie, high-protein meal. For precise nutritional information, it's best to use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and measurements.
This pan-seared flounder with garlic shrimp is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the ease of preparation! It's one of those best recipes you'll want to add to your regular meal rotation. It truly is a delicious dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your desire for healthy and easy homemade cooking!