Get ready to enjoy a meal that's quick, tasty, and packed with flavor! In this blog post, I'll show you how to make Sheet-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli. It's a simple dish that brings together juicy shrimp and fresh broccoli, all drizzled with zesty lemon and garlic. Perfect for busy nights, this one-pan wonder makes clean-up a breeze. Let’s get cooking and bring delight to your dinner table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Optional Add-ins
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Gather these ingredients before you start. The large shrimp give a great flavor and texture. Broccoli florets bring a nice crunch and color. Olive oil helps everything cook well and adds richness.
For the seasonings, fresh garlic gives a strong, tasty kick. Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish and add tang. Paprika adds warmth and color. You can adjust the red pepper flakes for heat.
If you want, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is simple but full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot oven is key to cooking the shrimp and broccoli quickly.
2. Preparing the shrimp and broccoli mixture: In a large bowl, mix together 1 pound of large shrimp, 2 cups of broccoli florets, and 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Add in 4 cloves of minced garlic, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything well until all the shrimp and broccoli are coated.
Baking Instructions
1. Spreading mixture on the baking sheet: Take a large baking sheet and spread the shrimp and broccoli mixture evenly across it. Make sure the shrimp are not crowded. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Drizzling olive oil before baking: Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture. This will help create a beautiful, golden finish when baked.
Completion Steps
1. Baking times and checking doneness: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque. The broccoli should be tender and have a slight crisp.
2. Garnishing with parsley: When done, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve directly from the sheet pan for a fun and easy meal.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get perfect shrimp, watch the cooking time. Shrimp cook fast. Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes. They turn pink and opaque when done. Overcooking makes them tough. Aim for that tender bite!
For crispy broccoli, keep an eye on it, too. The broccoli should be tender but still have a little crunch. Bake it alongside the shrimp. The heat will help it crisp up nicely.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to kick up the flavor? Add more spices or herbs! Try thyme or oregano for a fresh touch. You can also add more red pepper flakes if you like heat.
Lemon slices can add a zesty punch. Place them on top of the shrimp before baking. They infuse extra lemony goodness as everything cooks.
Presentation Ideas
Serving this dish is a breeze. You can bring it right from the sheet pan to the table. It looks great and saves dishes! Add lemon wedges on the side. They make it pop visually and add a burst of flavor.
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds color. It makes the dish look fancy and fresh. Just sprinkle it on top before serving. This little touch can impress your guests!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, try different proteins.
- Alternatives for shrimp: You can use chicken, scallops, or firm tofu. Each gives a unique taste and texture.
- Different vegetables to include: Feel free to add bell peppers, asparagus, or snap peas. These veggies cook well and add color.
Style Variations
Want to make this dish even heartier?
- Making it a complete meal with grains: Serve the shrimp and broccoli over rice, quinoa, or couscous. This adds carbs and makes it filling.
- Adjusting spice levels for preferred heat: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. For less spice, cut the amount or leave them out.
Dietary Considerations
This dish can fit many diets.
- Gluten-free options: All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check any packaged items you use.
- Low-carb variations: Keep it low-carb by skipping grains. Add more broccoli or other low-carb veggies for bulk.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your shrimp and broccoli fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to chill them in the fridge within two hours after cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. The shrimp and broccoli can last in the fridge for up to three days. Before storing, avoid mixing them with any sauces to keep their texture intact.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, your goal is to keep the shrimp tender and the broccoli crisp. I recommend using the oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. If you prefer, you can also use a microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, but be careful not to overdo it.
Freezing Options
Yes, you can freeze this dish! However, freezing may change the texture of the shrimp. If you freeze it, do so within two hours of cooking. Use a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook shrimp in the oven?
Cooking shrimp in the oven takes 12 to 15 minutes. The cooking time depends on the size of the shrimp.
- Large shrimp: 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Medium shrimp: 8-10 minutes at the same temperature
- Small shrimp: 6-8 minutes
Keep an eye on them. They turn pink and opaque when they are done.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first.
- To thaw, place shrimp in the fridge overnight.
- If you're short on time, submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook better.
What should I serve with Sheet-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli?
You have many options for side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice pairs well.
- Quinoa: A healthy, nutty option.
- Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Bread: A crusty baguette is great for soaking up the juices.
For drinks, try a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. This enhances the meal's flavors.
This recipe for Sheet-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli is simple and tasty. We covered key ingredients, like shrimp and broccoli. You learned step-by-step how to prep and bake them. I shared tips to make your dish even better and ways to change it up.
Remember, cooking is all about creativity and fun. Enjoy every bite and make it your own!
