Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Juicy and flavorful, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This quick meal combines the rich taste of garlic butter shrimp with fluffy rice and a vibrant mix of vegetables. It’s not only satisfying but also healthy, making it great for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of just 25 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce enhances the shrimp, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, this meal is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or served as part of a larger spread at gatherings.
• Single Serving: Ideal for solo diners or those looking to control portion sizes without leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare this recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Steamer basket
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing shrimp evenly while infusing flavors from the garlic butter.
• Saucepan: Essential for cooking rice to fluffy perfection without any hassle.
• Steamer basket: Allows you to steam vegetables quickly 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

1. Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.
3. Add rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce heat.
4. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until fluffy.
5. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Arrange rice on a plate, top with sautéed shrimp, and serve alongside mixed vegetables while hot.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables—a meal that’s sure to impress!

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. Here are some ways to enhance your meal presentation and enjoyment.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty squeeze that brightens the dish.

Pair with a Light Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens drizzled with vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the dish nicely.

Add Some Crunch

• Toasted Almonds: Scatter toasted almonds over the vegetables for an added nutty flavor and crunch.
• Fried Onions: Top your dish with crispy fried onions for a savory finish.

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

Creating the perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Shrimp: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Control Heat Carefully: Cook shrimp over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear without overcooking.
• Fresh Garlic Matters: Use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced for an intense, aromatic flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Steam vegetables until tender-crisp to retain their vibrant colors and nutrients.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices, like chili flakes, for an extra kick.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoying this dish hot enhances the flavors and textures.

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

Complementing your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side provides a delicious way to soak up any remaining garlic butter sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon is a nutritious option that pairs well.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned simply offer a hearty addition.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob complements the savory shrimp perfectly, especially in summer months.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of when making Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables.

• Not rinsing the rice: Rinsing your rice is crucial. It removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. Always rinse until the water runs clear for fluffy rice.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and slightly crispy.
• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key to bringing out flavors. Don’t skip salt and pepper during cooking; these enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Steam vegetables too long: Overcooking vegetables can lead to a loss of nutrients and vibrant color. Steam them just until they are tender-crisp for the best results.
• Not using enough garlic: Garlic is the star of this dish! Use fresh minced garlic for maximum flavor and aroma in your butter sauce.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like fresh parsley not only add color but also enhance flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some on before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for even results.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Jasmine or basmati rice works best due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked.

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

Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas, or use different herbs like cilantro for added flavor.

How do I ensure my shrimp are tender?

Avoid overcooking by watching closely as shrimp turn pink quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they are opaque.

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a delightful meal that combines juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies into one plate. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences while keeping it healthy and flavorful. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately two people 1x

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Description

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and colorful veggies in a delightful quick meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is not only satisfying but also nutritious. With its vibrant mix of vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots paired with fluffy rice, it makes for a well-rounded dinner option that’s sure to impress family and friends. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and healthy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g shrimp (peeled & deveined)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup white rice (jasmine or basmati)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 tsp olive oil or butter

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. Boil water in a saucepan, add the rice and salt, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Steam broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots for about 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp. Toss with olive oil or butter, salt, and pepper.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
4. Serve by arranging rice on a plate topped with sautéed shrimp and mixed vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing/Steaming
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 175mg