Save to Pinterest Succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli are sautéed in a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce for a vibrant, quick, and flavorful meal.
The first time I made this Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could produce such a bright and impressive dish in barely 25 minutes.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- Broccoli florets: 4 cups (300 g), fresh
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g)
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Lemon juice: 3 tbsp fresh (about 1 large lemon)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Red pepper flakes: Pinch, optional
- Lemon wedges: To serve
Instructions
- Blanch Broccoli:
- Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add Broccoli & Sauce:
- Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to coat everything evenly and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
- Finish & Serve:
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Save to Pinterest This is the kind of meal my family gathers around for busy weeknights, always fighting over the last shrimp in the buttery lemon sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal or keep it light with extra veggies on the side.
Customizations
Add a handful of cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor or try with sliced bell peppers for more crunch.
Pairings
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrusy flavors beautifully.
Save to Pinterest Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli is an effortless weeknight superstar. Enjoy every zesty, buttery bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep broccoli crisp-tender?
Blanch broccoli in boiling salted water for 2 minutes, then drain immediately to preserve a bright color and slightly firm texture.
- → What’s the best way to cook shrimp evenly?
Cook shrimp in a single layer over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- → Can I substitute butter for dairy-free options?
Yes, olive oil works well as a dairy-free alternative without compromising flavor.
- → How to enhance the flavor further?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat or garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for brightness.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta to create a heartier plate.
- → Which wines pair well with this dish?
Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the citrus and butter notes beautifully.