Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy is a delightful dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. This one-skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, showcasing tender shrimp and crisp bok choy enveloped in a savory garlic-butter sauce. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also bursts with flavor, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Save on cleanup time with this easy one-pan dish that cooks all ingredients together.
• Flavorful Profile: The combination of garlic, sriracha, and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates the simple ingredients.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from bok choy, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal that fits your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy efficiently, having the right tools will speed up your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and bok choy.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of mincing garlic and cutting vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (Choose medium-large raw shrimp (16–20 count per pound) for best texture.)
• 3 tablespoons butter (Substitute with olive oil or ghee for dairy-free.)
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (Provides the aromatic backbone.)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (Use low-sodium to control saltiness.)
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (Adjust to taste.)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (Brightens the dish.)

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups baby bok choy, halved (Adds crunch and nutrients.)

Seasoning

• to taste salt and pepper (For seasoning.)

Garnish

• as needed chopped green onions (For garnish.)

How to Make Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Mince the garlic finely, halve the baby bok choy, and chop green onions for garnish.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. You can substitute olive oil if preferred.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Sauce

Add the shrimp to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce, sriracha, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly.

Step 5: Incorporate Bok Choy

Once the shrimp turn pink (about 3-4 minutes), add halved baby bok choy. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until bok choy is tender yet crisp.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot over rice or noodles as desired. Enjoy your flavorful Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy!

How to Serve Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the shrimp and bok choy over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a satisfying base that soaks up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the shrimp and bok choy with cooked rice noodles or udon for a hearty, noodle-based meal. Add a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with shrimp and bok choy. Top with additional sriracha for a spicy kick.

As Part of a Bowls Meal

• Create a vibrant bowl by layering quinoa, fresh vegetables, and the shrimp mixture. Drizzle with sesame oil for added richness.

How to Perfect Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

To achieve the best results with your Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp will have better texture and flavor compared to previously frozen options.

• Control the heat: Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference. Start small, then add more if desired.

• Don’t overcook: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque for perfect tenderness. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

• Use high heat: Cooking on high heat helps to quickly sear the shrimp, enhancing their flavor while keeping them juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the main dish.

2. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice provides a creamy contrast to the spicy shrimp, making each bite delightful.

3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.

4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar balances the heat from the dish nicely.

5. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory flavors.

6. Quinoa Pilaf: A lemon-infused quinoa pilaf adds texture and nutty flavor, making it an ideal companion for this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes be tricky, especially when trying new recipes. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using overcooked shrimp: Overcooking shrimp makes them tough and rubbery. Cook just until they’re pink and opaque.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors. Use measuring spoons and cups for precision.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth to the dish. Don’t skip it, and adjust to your taste for the best flavor.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to blandness. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Crowding the pan: Cooking too much at once traps steam and prevents browning. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Quickly reheat in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy:

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What can I substitute for baby bok choy?

You can substitute baby bok choy with spinach or kale, but adjust cooking times accordingly as they may wilt faster.

How spicy is the Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy?

The spiciness depends on the amount of sriracha used. Start with one tablespoon and adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components like chopping bok choy or mincing garlic ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Baby Bok Choy is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a flavorful dinner that comes together in under 15 minutes!