Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Shrimp String Beans recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and boasts a beautiful vibrant color that will impress your family and friends. This recipe offers a fantastic balance of protein and vegetables, making it a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound string beans, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Begin by trimming the ends off your string beans. If they are particularly long, snap them in half. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Having everything prepped beforehand will make the cooking process much smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Step 3: Cook the String Beans
Add the string beans to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a bit of their bite.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp & Wine (or Broth)
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. If using, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the liquid to slightly reduce.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Stir in the lemon juice and butter. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a simple side of rice or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp String Beans:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more lemon juice, garlic, or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will always result in a more flavorful dish.
- Consider adding other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp String Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Shrimp String Beans with Parmesan: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for a richer flavor.
- Shrimp String Beans with Lemon-Herb Butter: Enhance the flavor by using a compound butter infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy shrimp string beans recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on taste or health. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It’s a perfect choice for those looking for easy recipes and delicious dishes that are also good for you. Try this recipe today and discover a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire!