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A well-portioned and balanced shrimp dinner with vegetables and grains on a white plate.

Zesty Garlic Shrimp with Roasted Vegetables

This vibrant dish features succulent shrimp infused with zesty garlic, complemented by a colorful array of perfectly roasted vegetables. It's a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that's perfect for any weeknight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • colander
  • medium bowl
  • large skillet or wok

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 small onion or 2 shallots, finely diced (optional)
  • 3-4 cups mixed non-starchy vegetables (e.g., broccoli florets, bell peppers, asparagus, snap peas, zucchini, spinach)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice, cauli-rice)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Salt
  • black pepper
  • paprika
  • red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Thaw frozen shrimp, then pat dry with paper towels. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if desired), then set aside.
  • Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package directions if using.

Cooking

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion or shallots for 2-3 minutes, then add harder vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, cooking for 5-7 minutes.
  • Add softer vegetables like spinach or snap peas during the last 2-3 minutes, stirring in minced garlic for the final minute.
  • Move vegetables to one side or remove from the pan, then add seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  • Return vegetables to the pan with the shrimp, squeeze fresh lemon juice over, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Toss gently to combine.

Serving

  • Divide cooked grains among plates, then top with the shrimp and vegetable mixture.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to your preference. For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep it tender and juicy.