Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe

If you’re in search of a quick, delectable dinner bursting with flavor, look no further than this scrumptious Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli. With savory shrimp that are lightly charred and broccoli cooked to perfection, this meal comes together in a flash yet tastes like it took hours. It’s the perfect weekday rescue, tasty enough to impress the pickiest of eaters!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings its own magic to the table, crafting a dish that’s as visually enticing as it is deliciously satisfying.

• Honey: Not only sweetens but creates that glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp.
• Soy Sauce: Provides a deep umami flavor, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
• Fresh Grated Ginger: Adds a zingy freshness that enlivens the sauce.
• Minced Garlic: Essential for that classic garlic butter flavor, enhancing the dish’s aroma and taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A touch of heat that makes the flavors pop without overpowering them.
• Cornstarch: Ensures a thick and rich sauce that coats each piece perfectly.
• Large Shrimp: Tender and juicy, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the marinade.
• Butter: Adds richness and allows the shrimp to sear beautifully.
• Broccoli: Adds a vibrant, crunchy contrast and pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
• Olive Oil: Helps in sautéing the broccoli for that tender yet crisp texture.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that amplifies all the other flavors.

Variations

This recipe is a veritable chameleon, adapting beautifully to personal tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it and make it your own!

• Spice It Up: Add a dash more red pepper flakes or some Sriracha for extra heat.
• Ginger Swap: Use ground ginger if fresh isn’t available, but reduce the quantity slightly to avoid overpowering.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in some bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and color variety.
• Make It Sophisticated: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a refined flavor profile.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. This blend is the heart of your dish, infusing every bite with rich, layered flavors. Scoop some of this delightful marinade over the peeled and deveined shrimp to get those flavors working their magic right away.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat olive oil in a skillet or wok over high heat. Toss in the broccoli along with a pinch of salt and pepper, and let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes. You’re aiming for crisp-tender florets that are vividly green. Once done, transfer them out of the pan, making way for your shrimp.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Melt butter in your skillet, then add the marinated shrimp, discarding the used marinade. Cook each side for about 2 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and slightly golden. This is when the flavors really take hold, giving the shrimp that irresistible succulence.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

Introduce the reserved marinade (whisked with cornstarch) to the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer. This lovely sauce will begin to thicken, hugging each shrimp and broccoli piece with its glossy goodness. Add the broccoli back to the pan, giving everything one last toss until well coated and heated through.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Garnishes

A light scatter of sesame seeds or chopped green onions atop your bowl of Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli can elevate both its look and taste, adding a delightful nuttiness and freshness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a simple pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nutritious twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli stylishly on a long platter, separating the shrimp from the greens for a visual feast. Consider large, shallow bowls for a cozy, family-style serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover shrimp and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a wonderful, flavorsome lunch the next day.

Freezing

If you plan to freeze Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli, ensure the dish is fully cooled before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to one month.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon of water to prevent dryness. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Taking that first bite of Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is like receiving a warm embrace. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity and flavor, one that I hope you’ll find joy in making and sharing with those you love. Don’t wait too long to try this—your taste buds will thank you!

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