Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa

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Are you ready to indulge in a culinary delight that brings together tender shrimp, flavorful garlic butter, and nutritious quinoa? This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, lunch meal prep, or a casual gathering with friends, this dish showcases the delightful combination of seafood and wholesome grains.

Each bite bursts with garlic goodness and is enhanced by the savory richness of butter, all while being light and refreshing with a hint of freshness from lemon.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe is a must-try for numerous reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute meal plans.

Secondly, the vibrant flavors from the garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon juice create a deliciously harmonious dish that elevates simple ingredients into something truly special.

Quinoa not only adds a wonderful nutty flavor but also boosts the dish’s nutritional content, providing a great source of protein and fiber.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa will become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp, thawed if frozen and deveined, tails off (I used 50-70 count per pound)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

How To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter.

In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth for added flavor. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.

Fluff it with a fork and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant and slightly golden.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet.

Sprinkle the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the shrimp.

Stir gently to coat the shrimp evenly in the garlic butter and spices.

Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque, indicating that they are cooked through.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice

Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp.

Give it a final stir to combine all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

To serve, place a generous portion of quinoa on a plate and top it with the garlic butter shrimp.

If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your meal with a wedge of lemon on the side for an added zesty touch!

Expert Tips

• Ensure your shrimp are fresh, and if using frozen, thaw them thoroughly to maintain the best texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking shrimp; this ensures they cook evenly and achieve that perfect sear.
• Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or even some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• For a touch of freshness, consider adding some finely chopped parsley or chives just before serving.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap quinoa for other grains like brown rice or couscous, depending on your preference.
• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for a heartier meal.
• Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option that still maintains rich flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as dill or Old Bay seasoning, to personalize the flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, you can microwave the shrimp and quinoa in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

If you find the dish is a bit dry after refrigeration, consider adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil before reheating to bring back some moisture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking.

This will help you achieve the best texture and flavor.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque.

They will also curl into a “C” shape.

Be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter shrimp and quinoa ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge.

Just combine them and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa?

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

You could even serve it with crusty bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa is a versatile, quick, and above all, delicious recipe that will please anyone at your table.

It beautifully balances flavor and nutrition, making it a winning choice for lunch or dinner.

So why not give this recipe a try? Incorporate it into your meal rotation and enjoy the tantalizing taste of garlic butter-infused shrimp served over fluffy quinoa.

With its hearty yet light profile, this dish surely deserves a place in your recipe book.

Happy cooking!