Quick Description
Warm up with this creamy Garlic Shrimp with Herb Rice! This easy and quick recipe features succulent shrimp sautรฉed in a rich garlic-butter sauce, finished with a splash of lemon juice and a hint of spice. Tossed with creamy Parmesan and served over fluffy Jasmine or Basmati rice, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, youโll have a comforting bowl of deliciousness thatโs sure to impress! Garnish with fresh parsley and herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Garlic Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Herb Rice:
- 1 cup Jasmine or Basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Herb Rice
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil.
- Add the rice, olive oil, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Sautรฉ the Shrimp
- While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the butter and let it melt.
- Once the butter is melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet, cooking for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Shrimp with Rice
- To serve, spoon a generous amount of the herb rice onto each plate.
- Top with the sautรฉed garlic shrimp, ensuring each plate gets a good amount of the garlic-butter sauce.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and rice, allowing it to melt into the dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and any additional herbs for extra flavor.
Additional Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the rice and shrimp separately in advance. Store the rice in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve. The shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Spicy Option: For more spice, you can increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp as they cook.
- Substitute: If you prefer another grain, you can substitute the Jasmine or Basmati rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: The shrimp in this recipe provide a lean source of protein.
- Low-Carb Option: To reduce carbs, you can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add Veggies: Toss in some sautรฉed spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for extra veggies and color.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream into the garlic butter sauce for a richer, creamier version of this dish.
- Side Pairing: This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.
Freezing: You can freeze the garlic shrimp and rice separately for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm on the stove or in the microwave.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking.
Q: Can I use different types of rice?
Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, but Jasmine or Basmati rice works best for this dish due to their fluffy texture.