Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Juicy and flavorful, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is perfect for any occasion. This dish combines tender shrimp seared in rich garlic butter with fluffy rice and a colorful medley of vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend meal. You’ll love how the flavors come together in just 25 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of only 25 minutes, this meal is perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic butter and shrimp creates a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the freshness of steamed vegetables.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, this dish offers great nutritional benefits.
• Versatile Meal: Whether you’re cooking for one or entertaining guests, this dish can easily be scaled up or down.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet and a pot are all you need to create this delicious meal, minimizing your post-cooking cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Steamer basket or pot with lid
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp while allowing the garlic to infuse its flavor into the butter.
• Saucepan: This tool is vital for cooking the rice to fluffy perfection without sticking.
• Steamer basket or pot with lid: Steaming vegetables retains their nutrients while providing a tender-crisp texture that enhances the dish’s appeal.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 200g (about 7 oz) shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup white rice (jasmine or basmati)
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 tsp olive oil or butter
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.
1. Add rice and salt.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until fluffy.
3. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Steam broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
1. Toss with olive oil or butter.
2. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
1. Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Arrange rice, shrimp, and vegetables on a plate. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: ~420 kcal per serving
Servings: 1

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Serving Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is all about presentation and enhancing flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish that will impress your guests or family.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Grate a bit of lemon zest on top to give a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the shrimp.

Add a Sauce

• Chili Sauce: Drizzle some chili sauce for a spicy kick that pairs well with garlic butter.
• Soy Sauce: A light splash of soy sauce can add an umami flavor that enriches the overall taste.

Serve with Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Wedges: Place lemon wedges on the side for squeezing fresh juice over the shrimp just before eating.

Create a Layered Bowl

• Layering in Bowls: For a fun twist, layer rice at the bottom, then top with shrimp and vegetables for a beautiful bowl presentation.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

To make your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a stronger aroma and taste.
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are not overcooked; they should be pink and slightly crispy on the edges.
• Even Vegetable Cooking: Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even steaming, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Resting Time for Rice: Let rice sit covered after cooking for 5 minutes to achieve perfect fluffiness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Shrimp enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
2. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the shrimp.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad adds texture and nutty flavor while being nutritious.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Simple steamed asparagus provides vibrant color and a lovely contrast in flavor.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Slightly sweet roasted sweet potatoes complement the savory shrimp wonderfully.
6. Mango Salsa: A zesty mango salsa can offer a refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with the meal.
7. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw can serve as a crunchy counterpart that adds variety to your plate.
8. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly brings freshness and helps cleanse the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables to perfection.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery. Cook for just 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly crispy.
• Skipping the rinsing step for rice: Not rinsing rice can lead to excess starch, making it gummy. Always rinse until the water runs clear for fluffy rice.
• Neglecting seasoning for vegetables: Unseasoned vegetables can taste bland. Don’t forget to season them with salt and pepper after steaming for maximum flavor.
• Using too much heat when cooking: Cooking shrimp on high heat can lead to uneven cooking. Medium-high heat ensures they cook evenly without burning.
• Not letting the rice rest: Serving rice immediately after cooking can result in clumping. Allow it to rest covered for a few minutes before fluffing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables.

What type of shrimp should I use?

You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure that they are peeled and deveined for convenience.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time and water ratio as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

How can I customize the mixed vegetables?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini based on your preference.

Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice & Mixed Vegetables is a delightful, quick meal that combines succulent shrimp with nutritious veggies and fluffy rice. Its versatility allows you to customize the recipe based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful dining experience!