Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp and broccoli stir-fry recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and a fantastic source of protein and nutrients. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet satisfying dish. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and is among the best recipes for a quick and healthy meal.
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 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Start by washing and cutting your broccoli into bite-sized florets. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and mince the garlic. Prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining it. This initial prep work makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). This simple sauce is the key to the dish's incredible flavor.
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Stir-fry the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of 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.
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Stir-fry the vegetables: Add the broccoli and bell pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp. Don't overcook the vegetables; you want them to retain a bit of their crunch.
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Combine and simmer: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, and stir to coat everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When stir-frying, it's essential not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the shrimp and vegetables cook evenly and don't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will always result in the best flavor. Look for bright, vibrant broccoli and bell peppers.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this stir-fry, such as carrots, snow peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Use different protein: Chicken or tofu can be substituted for the shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Add nuts: Toasted cashews or peanuts would add a nice crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is a great source of lean protein and fiber. Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate for a serving would be around 300-350 calories, with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.
This shrimp and broccoli stir-fry recipe is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy!