Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This shrimp and Brussel sprouts recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, easy to make, and boasts a beautiful vibrant presentation that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Start by trimming and halving the Brussel sprouts. If they're particularly large, you might want to quarter them for even cooking. Peel and devein the shrimp – this step is crucial for a great final product. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Having everything prepped before you begin cooking will make the process much smoother.
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Roast the Brussel sprouts: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the Brussel sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussel sprouts.
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Sauté the shrimp: While the Brussel sprouts are roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can quickly become bitter.
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Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
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Combine and serve: Once the shrimp is cooked, add the roasted Brussel sprouts to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together gently to combine the flavors.
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Season and enjoy: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and easy meal!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute with dried parsley (use about 1 tablespoon).
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp and Brussel Sprouts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Brussel Sprouts: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
- Lemon Herb Shrimp and Brussel Sprouts: Add other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving will likely contain around 300-400 calories, with a moderate amount of fat and a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. It's a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. This recipe is a great example of best recipes that are both satisfying and good for you.
This shrimp and Brussel sprouts recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to become a family favorite, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly tasty and satisfying. Enjoy!