Garlic shrimps and quinoa

Sautéed shrimp in a delightful lemon-garlic butter sauce offers a quick yet savory experience, catering to those who prioritize health without sacrificing taste. Rich in protein and vital nutrients, this dish is ready in 20 minutes or less!

Jason Adams

3/19/20242 min read

Why Garlic Shrimp and Quinoa?

Garlic Shrimp offers a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle maintenance and overall physiological functions, particularly important as we age. Shrimp is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and a superior protein source, boasting high protein content with minimal calories, alternative to fattier meats. Quinoa complements shrimp beautifully by providing a fiber-rich, vitamin-packed base that promotes healthy digestion and provides sustained energy. Together, they create a meal that's not only satisfying but also conducive to a healthy lifestyle.

The Nutritional Benefits:

Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth, protein is a cornerstone of a healthy diet, and keeps you fully for longer.

Fiber: Quinoa is rich in fiber, which is pivotal for healthy digestion. Fiber helps keep you regular, reduces cholesterol levels, and controls blood sugar levels.

Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is packed with vitamins B12, E, and magnesium from shrimp, and manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and folate from quinoa. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including nerve function, immune system health, and bone strength.

Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in cooking garlic shrimp is rich in monounsaturated fats, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Ingredients

Shrimp: A powerhouse of protein, shrimp also offer essential vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, copper, zinc, magnesium, and calcium, making them an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals.

Quinoa: Our preferred side to the garlic butter shrimp is quinoa, as it provides a fiber-rich, vitamin-packed base that promotes healthy digestion.

Unsalted Butter: The essential component of garlic butter shrimp that brings richness to the dish. Pro Tip: If you want to reduce calories, cut anywhere from a teaspoon to one tablespoon of butter, without losing the richness of the dish.

Garlic: The perfect partner to shrimp, garlic enhances flavor. Go heavy or light according to your taste! (Personally I prefer to go heavy on the garlic)

Lemon: A classic companion to shrimp, lemon adds a refreshing twist, elevating the dish's overall taste.

White Wine: Opt for a dry white wine like sauvignon blanc to complement the garlic butter shrimp.

Substitution Tip: If no wine is on hand, don’t worry, use chicken stock instead! You will not lose out on the flavor.

Cayenne Pepper: A touch of cayenne pepper awakens the shrimp's flavor without overpowering it. If you desire a spicier garlic butter shrimp feel free to add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Substitution Tip: Another delightful option is garlic butter shrimp with paprika for a hint of spice without excessive heat of the cayenne pepper.

Fresh Herbs: Freshness is key when it comes to herbs. A handful of fresh parsley, along with a sprig of thyme or rosemary, imparts marvelous flavors to this recipe.

Rapid-Fire Directions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by patting dry your peeled shrimp using paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine your shrimp and seasonings. Toss to coat evenly.

  3. Melt the Butter. Add in Onion.

  4. Sauté the Shrimp. Flip when needed to ensure both sides are perfectly cooked.

  5. Add the Wine and Garlic.

  6. Zest the Lemon and stir in any remaining ingredients. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for that extra zing. Enjoy!

  7. Rinse the Quinoa: Before cooking, rise quinoa through a fine mesh strainer.

  8. Cook the Quinoa. Bring it to a boil then simmer, cover, and cook it absorbs the liquid and becomes tender. Fluff afterwards with a fork.

  9. Combine cooked Shrimp and Quinoa in an individual dish or on a serving plate

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