Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This yellow rice and shrimp recipe is a delicious and healthy option that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with fresh flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to enjoy a taste of sunshine on your plate!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads (optional, but adds a beautiful color and flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Broth
Stir in the rice, turmeric, saffron (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the cooked shrimp. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve hot and enjoy this quick dinner idea!
Tips for the Best Yellow Rice and Shrimp:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of turmeric, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots along with the onion and garlic.
Variations:
- Spicy Yellow Rice and Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the rice while it's cooking.
- Lemon Yellow Rice and Shrimp: Substitute lemon juice for lime juice and add some lemon zest for a zesty twist.
- Coconut Yellow Rice and Shrimp: Add a can of coconut milk to the rice along with the chicken broth for a creamy and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This easy recipe for yellow rice and shrimp provides a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend lunch. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!