Looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s packed with protein and fresh vegetables? This Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp dish is the answer. With succulent shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and a simple, yet bold seasoning, this recipe is a delicious combination of savory, zesty, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s the perfect go-to meal for a busy weekday or a light dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal.
- Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean shrimp and nutrient-dense broccoli, this dish is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals while being light on calories.
- Bold and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, black pepper, sesame oil, and lime juice adds depth of flavor that enhances the natural tastes of the shrimp and broccoli.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Make it spicier with more black pepper or adjust the sweetness with a bit more sugar.
Ingredients for Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp
- 2 ounces shrimp (heads removed): A small but flavorful portion of shrimp, packed with protein.
- 1 medium broccoli, cut into pieces: Provides a rich source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
For the Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon lime juice: Adds a refreshing, tangy note to balance the richness of the shrimp.
- 2 teaspoons chopped onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 large clove garlic: Adds aromatic richness to the dish.
- Black pepper to taste: The star seasoning, providing heat and a peppery kick.
- Salt to taste: Balances the flavors of the shrimp and vegetables.
- Sugar to taste: Just a touch of sweetness to round out the savory and tangy flavors.
For Sautéing:
- Sesame oil: Imparts a nutty, toasted flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and broccoli.
- Olive oil, coconut oil, or margarine: Choose according to your preference for sautéing.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp
1. Prepare the Garlic and Seasoning:
- Begin by pureeing the garlic, black pepper, and salt in a food processor or mortar and pestle. This will create a flavorful seasoning paste for the shrimp. Set it aside for later.
2. Season the Shrimp:
- Thoroughly wash the shrimp to remove any impurities.
- Mix the shrimp with the prepared pureed garlic seasoning. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil (or your choice of coconut oil or margarine) in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the shrimp with the black pepper and garlic seasoning until the shrimp turn orange and opaque (about 2-3 minutes).
- Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add one teaspoon of olive oil (or your chosen oil) and one teaspoon of sesame oil. Heat the oils together.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
5. Cook the Broccoli:
- Once the onions are fragrant, add the broccoli pieces to the skillet.
- Stir briefly, then add a splash of water (just enough to steam the broccoli).
- Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli becomes slightly tender but still bright green and crisp-tender.
6. Combine Shrimp and Broccoli:
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the broccoli.
- Stir well, and then add a pinch of sugar and lime juice to balance the savory and tangy flavors.
- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the shrimp and broccoli are fully tender and well combined.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with additional lime wedges or fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over rice or quinoa: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- With a side of stir-fried vegetables: Add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more crunch and color.
- A squeeze of lime: If you love tangy flavors, a little extra lime juice can brighten up the dish even more.
Tips for Making the Best Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can turn rubbery if left on the heat for too long. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the black pepper, sugar, and lime juice to suit your personal preference. Add more lime for extra tang or more sugar for a slightly sweeter dish.
- Swap the oil: If you’re avoiding sesame oil or coconut oil, olive oil works just fine as a substitute while still providing a flavorful base for the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I make this dish spicier?
If you love spice, feel free to add some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili along with the black pepper for an extra kick.
What can I serve with this dish?
You can serve Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp with steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or even a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a healthy, balanced meal.
Conclusion
Black Pepper Broccoli Shrimp is a vibrant, simple, and flavorful dish that combines the savory goodness of shrimp with the fresh crunch of broccoli. With its minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal. The combination of garlic, black pepper, sesame oil, and lime creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that elevates the natural taste of shrimp and vegetables.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a nutritious, tasty dish that’s sure to become a regular part of your weeknight dinners.