Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This pan-seared flounder with sautéed shrimp recipe is the perfect solution for a weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor, takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, and is bursting with fresh, vibrant tastes that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a sophisticated meal without the fuss. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) flounder fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Flounder
Pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Flounder
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the flounder fillets, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Reduce the heat to low, stir in the butter, and let it melt into the sauce. Add the cooked shrimp and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the sauce over the flounder fillets and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the shrimp and flounder in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your flounder fillets and the size of your shrimp. Always check for doneness.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Using fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or chives.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Creamy sauce: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Lemon-garlic butter: Use a compound butter (softened butter mixed with minced garlic and lemon zest) to sear the flounder for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This pan-seared flounder with sautéed shrimp recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your easy recipes repertoire. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!