Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This shrimp with pineapple recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's bursting with vibrant tastes, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of shrimp, all in a delightful sauce that will have you licking your plate clean. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels. It's a delicious dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the red bell pepper and red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for best results.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch until smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Add the diced pineapple and bring to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately over cooked rice or quinoa. This healthy meal is best enjoyed hot!
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp with Pineapple:
- For even sweeter results, use extra ripe pineapple.
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp becomes tough.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Add some veggies: Include other vegetables like broccoli florets, snow peas, or zucchini.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fat: 5-10g
This shrimp with pineapple recipe offers a fantastic balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It's a great addition to your collection of best recipes and easy recipes for healthy meals. This homemade cooking project is sure to impress your family and friends.