Name: Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings together succulent shrimp and vibrant broccoli in a mouthwatering sauce, then look no further than this Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli recipe. This dish not only delivers delightful flavors but also comes together in under 30 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and rich butter creates a luxurious sauce that coats the tender shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli beautifully. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe offers straightforward steps that make cooking feel effortless. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from broccoli, this dish is both satisfying and healthy

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; choose medium to large-sized shrimp for the best texture
Broccoli Florets: Use fresh broccoli florets for optimal color and crunch; frozen can be used if fresh is unavailable
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves to achieve maximum flavor in the sauce
Butter: Use unsalted butter to better control the overall saltiness of the dish
Honey: Opt for pure honey to enhance the sweetness without artificial flavors
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to balance out flavors while keeping sodium levels in check

For the Sauce:

Cornstarch: This will help thicken the sauce; mix it with water before adding it to the pan

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if necessary. Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about three minutes until bright green but still crisp.

Step 3: Add Shrimp to Skillet

Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet and add another tablespoon of butter. Then place the shrimp in the skillet. Cook them for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixed with water. Stir until smooth before pouring it over the shrimp and broccoli mixture.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir everything together gently in the skillet so that all ingredients are coated well with the sauce. Continue cooking for another two minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer to plates immediately or serve directly from the skillet. Drizzle any remaining sauce over top for an extra burst of flavor!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the shrimp in soy sauce prior to cooking

How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and broccoli in advance by marinating the shrimp in honey, garlic, and butter for about 30 minutes. Chop the broccoli and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days before cooking.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure that shrimp and broccoli are completely cooled before sealing to keep them fresh.
Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp and broccoli in a skillet over medium heat for about five minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave them on low power in short intervals to prevent overcooking.

Suggestions for Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Overcooking the Shrimp

When preparing honey garlic butter shrimp & broccoli, one common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly and should only take about 3 to 5 minutes on medium heat. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their delicate texture. To avoid this, keep an eye on them as they change color from gray to pink. Once they curl into a C shape and are opaque throughout, it’s time to remove them from the heat. This ensures you maintain their juicy flavor and perfect consistency.

Skipping the Marination

Another error is skipping the marination phase for your shrimp. Marinating enhances the flavors significantly and can make a noticeable difference in your dish. A quick marinade of honey, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce can add depth to your honey garlic butter shrimp & broccoli. Aim to marinate for at least 15 minutes but not longer than an hour, as too much time can lead to mushy shrimp. The right balance ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ignoring Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is essential when making honey garlic butter shrimp & broccoli. Frozen or old vegetables can alter the taste and texture of your dish. Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but retains its vibrant green color and nutritional value. Always choose firm, bright green florets without any yellowing or wilting. The same applies to garlic; using fresh cloves instead of pre-minced options will provide a stronger flavor profile and enhance the overall dish.

Not Balancing Flavors

Failing to balance flavors is yet another mistake when preparing this dish. The sweetness of honey must complement the saltiness of the butter and soy sauce for a harmonious taste experience. If you find your sauce too sweet, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or extra soy sauce for acidity and balance. Taste as you go; adjusting seasonings during cooking allows you to achieve that perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami that makes honey garlic butter shrimp & broccoli so delightful.

FAQs

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli?

Honey butter shrimp & broccoli pairs wonderfully with various sides that enhance its flavors. For a balanced meal, consider serving it over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. These options absorb the delicious sauce beautifully while providing additional nutrients. You could also serve it alongside noodles like udon or soba for a comforting twist. Adding a side salad with light vinaigrette can offer freshness and crunch, making for a well-rounded dinner.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for honey butter shrimp & broccoli! However, it’s crucial to properly thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking results. Place your frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight for gradual thawing or run them under cold water in a sealed bag if you’re short on time. Once thawed, follow your recipe as usual; just remember that cooking times may vary slightly due to moisture content.

How do I store leftovers from Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli?

Storing leftovers from honey butter shrimp & broccoli requires some care to maintain flavor and texture. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly; they can last for up to three days in the fridge. When reheating, use low heat on the stovetop or microwave in short intervals until warmed through—this prevents overcooking the shrimp again and losing their tenderness.

Can I make Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily make honey butter shrimp & broccoli dairy-free! Instead of using regular butter, opt for plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter that still provide richness without dairy components. Additionally, ensure that any sauces used are free from dairy ingredients as well—soy sauce usually fits this criterion perfectly! With these substitutions, you’ll still enjoy all the flavors without compromising dietary preferences.

Conclusion for Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

In summary, preparing honey garlic butter shrimp & broccoli requires attention to detail in various aspects—from cooking times to ingredient selection. Avoid common pitfalls such as overcooking shrimp or neglecting marination steps for maximum flavor enhancement. Using fresh ingredients guarantees vibrant taste profiles while balancing sweetness with savory elements elevates your dish further. Remember these key points for optimal results: cook quickly at medium heat, marinate effectively, use fresh produce, and balance flavors carefully. Following these guidelines will help you create a delightful meal that impresses family and friends alike.