Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables makes for an ideal meal any night of the week. This dish combines tender shrimp seared in rich garlic butter with fluffy rice and a colorful mix of vegetables, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic butter and paprika gives the shrimp a deliciously rich flavor.
• Healthy Option: With a medley of fresh vegetables and lean protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your vegetable mix based on what you have available; it works well with various seasonal veggies.
• Single Serving: Ideal for solo diners or those cooking for one, ensuring no leftovers go to waste.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Steamer basket (or pot with lid)
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for sautéing the shrimp evenly, allowing for perfect browning.
• Saucepan: Used to cook the rice; having a lid helps retain steam for fluffy results.
• Steamer basket: Provides a gentle way to cook vegetables while preserving their nutrients and vibrant colors.

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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 the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice and salt, then 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 them with olive oil or butter, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

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

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Arrange rice on one side of the plate. Top with shrimp and serve alongside steamed vegetables. Serve hot for a delightful meal!

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

Serving Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your guests and enhance flavors.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad complements the richness of the shrimp. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your plate with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. This adds a burst of color and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Serve lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zing to each bite.

Over a Bed of Spinach

• For an added nutrient boost, serve the shrimp on a bed of lightly sautéed spinach. The warmth of the shrimp will wilt the spinach just right.

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

To achieve the best results when making Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables, follow these practical tips for success.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.

• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp until they are pink and slightly crispy. Overcooking can make them rubbery; aim for 2-3 minutes per side.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances overall taste, so adjust according to your preference.

• Keep Ingredients Prepped: Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking. This helps in maintaining timing and ensures everything is served hot.

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

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Shrimp can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this recipe beautifully.

1. Crispy Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce from the shrimp.

2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a sophisticated touch while offering a contrasting texture to the meal.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp.

4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and creaminess that pairs well with garlic butter flavors.

5. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add color and crunch without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of both shrimp and rice nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Overcooking leads to rubbery texture. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Not Rinsing the Rice: Skipping this step can make your rice gummy. Always rinse under cold water until it runs clear for fluffy rice.
• Ignoring Vegetable Timing: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Steam until tender-crisp for the best texture.
• Using Too Much Butter: While butter adds flavor, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to one tablespoon for balanced taste.
• Not Seasoning Well: Under-seasoned shrimp or vegetables lack flavor. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Place shrimp and rice in an airtight, freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just thaw them before cooking for even results.

How do I customize the vegetables?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. Just steam them along with the others.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal for this recipe due to their light and fluffy texture.

How do I make this dish healthier?

You can reduce butter or use olive oil instead. Also, increase vegetable portions for more fiber.

Can I substitute chicken for shrimp?

Absolutely! You can use diced chicken breast cooked thoroughly instead of shrimp for a different protein option.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures beautifully. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!