Lemon Butter Shrimp Broccoli

Succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli are sautéed in a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce for a vibrant quick and flavorful meal.

I first made this when I needed something both fast and special on a rainy evening. The burst of lemon and the richness of butter always brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) peeled and deveined tails on or off
• Broccoli florets: 4 cups (300 g)
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped plus extra for garnish
• Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g)
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
• Lemon juice: 3 tbsp fresh (about 1 large lemon)
• Salt: 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Pinch
• Lemon wedges: To serve

Instructions

Blanch Broccoli:

Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic:

In a large skillet over medium heat melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant about 30 seconds.

Cook Shrimp:

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Add Broccoli and Sauce:

Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss to coat everything evenly and cook for 1 2 minutes until heated through.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

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When we serve this for family dinner it disappears even faster than I expect — especially when everyone builds their own bowls and squeezes extra lemon on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve lemon butter shrimp & broccoli over steamed rice quinoa or pasta for a fuller meal. Pair with Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a refreshing combination.

Ingredient Swaps

Use cauliflower florets or green beans if you are out of broccoli and add a handful of cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor. For dairy free swap butter with olive oil.

Essential Kitchen Tools

For easy prep have ready a large skillet a pot for blanching broccoli a colander a knife and a zester or grater for the lemon zest.

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Bright flavors and quick prep make this meal a winner. Enjoy every vibrant bite with your favorite sides!

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you keep shrimp tender when cooking?

Cook shrimp quickly over medium heat until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side, to avoid toughness.

→ What’s the best way to blanch broccoli for this dish?

Boil broccoli florets in salted water for 2 minutes until bright green and just tender, then drain immediately.

→ Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for its vibrant flavor and zest, enhancing the dish’s brightness.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil to remove dairy while maintaining rich, savory notes.

→ What sides complement shrimp with lemon butter broccoli?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta pair well, adding a hearty base to the tender shrimp and vegetables.

→ Is it possible to add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding cherry tomatoes or other quick-cooking vegetables can enhance color and flavor without much extra effort.