Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This shrimp and potato recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's surprisingly easy, even for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this delicious dish – a perfect blend of savory shrimp and tender potatoes. This recipe is packed with flavor and is a great source of protein and healthy carbohydrates. It's one of the best recipes for a quick dinner, perfect for those healthy meal goals!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb small red potatoes, quartered
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Begin by washing and quartering the potatoes. Make sure the pieces are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the delicious base of your dish.
Cook the potatoes:
- Add the quartered potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 8-10 minutes. You want them tender but not falling apart.
Add the shrimp and simmer:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as it can become tough.
Finish and serve:
- Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. If using, add the butter and let it melt into the sauce, creating a lovely richness. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy and flavorful meal.
Tips for Success:
- Prep ahead: You can chop the potatoes and onions earlier in the day to save time during weeknight cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of shrimp and potatoes, it's best to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to the skillet along with the potatoes.
- Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder to add a unique flavor profile.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer and creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary slightly based on portion size and ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This simple shrimp and potato recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It's a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can be both satisfying and nutritious. This is undoubtedly one of the best recipes for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal.