Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Juicy and vibrant, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This meal not only showcases the succulent flavor of shrimp but also offers a balanced plate with fluffy rice and colorful vegetables. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is both easy to prepare and packed with nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce infuses the shrimp with irresistible flavor, making every bite memorable.
• Versatile: Customize the vegetables to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand!
• Healthy Options: Packed with protein and vitamins, this meal supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
• Single Serving Friendly: Perfectly portioned for one, it’s great for solo diners or those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, certain tools can simplify the process. Gathering them ahead of time will ensure you enjoy preparing this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Steamer basket
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for quickly sautéing shrimp in garlic butter, ensuring even cooking.
• Saucepan: Perfect for boiling rice to fluffiness while keeping everything contained.
• Steamer basket: Provides an easy way to steam vegetables while retaining their nutrients and crunch.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 200g (about 7 oz) shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup white rice (jasmine or basmati)
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 tsp olive oil or butter
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil, add rice and salt. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until fluffy. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Steam broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp. Toss with olive oil or butter, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp along with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Arrange rice, shrimp, and vegetables on a plate. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: ~420 kcal per serving
Servings: 1

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Serving Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures effortlessly. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and added freshness.
• Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions can provide a mild onion flavor and enhance the presentation.

Add a Squeeze of Citrus

• Lemon Juice: A drizzle of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the garlic butter.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for those who prefer a zesty kick.

Pair with Sauces

• Chili Sauce: Offer a spicy chili sauce for those who like an extra kick.
• Soy Sauce: A light drizzle of soy sauce can enhance umami flavors, complementing the shrimp beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

To ensure your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp will give you the best texture and flavor.
• Control Heat: Cooking over medium-high heat helps achieve that perfect sear without overcooking the shrimp.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Steam Vegetables Correctly: Ensure vegetables are steamed just until tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Complementing your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables can elevate your meal. Here are some great side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs well, soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crunchy contrast to the tender shrimp and rice.
3. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa can provide a fruity balance to the savory components of the meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette adds protein and texture.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus offers an elegant touch that complements both flavor and presentation.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly helps cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Rinsing Step: Failing to rinse the rice can lead to a gummy texture. Always rinse until the water runs clear for fluffy rice.
• Overcooking Shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Sauté just until they turn pink and slightly crispy for the best texture.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Neglecting salt and pepper can dull flavors. Be generous with seasoning at each step for a well-balanced dish.
• Ignoring Vegetable Doneness: Overcooked vegetables lose their vibrant color and crunch. Steam just until tender-crisp for optimal taste and nutrition.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold shrimp or butter can affect cooking times. Bring your ingredients to room temperature before cooking for even results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Cover in a microwave-safe container, heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What goes well with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables?

This dish pairs beautifully with fresh salads or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw the shrimp completely before cooking for even heating.

How do I customize my Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, or swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu.

Is Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is low in calories and packed with protein and nutrients from the vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile enough to suit any palate. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy this delicious meal any night of the week!