Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli: A Zesty, Healthy Dinner Boost

Discover how Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli makes a quick, zesty, and healthy dinner boost perfect for any weeknight or meal prep plan.

Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli: A Zesty, Healthy Dinner Boost

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli is the perfect choice. This dish combines succulent shrimp with fresh broccoli, all brightened by tangy lemon, making it an ideal healthy dinner boost after a busy day.

Why You’ll Love It

This recipe is fast, easy, and packed with protein and fiber. The lemon adds a fresh zest that elevates the flavors without extra calories or heavy sauces. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and fits well into a balanced diet.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – can substitute with scallops or firm fish
• 3 cups broccoli florets – cauliflower or green beans work well too
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – avocado oil is a good alternative
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add broccoli florets and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, then add them to the skillet.
5. Cook shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Pour the fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and broccoli and toss everything together.
7. Sprinkle the lemon zest and chopped parsley on top before serving.

For more quick dinners, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners or get inspired with healthy protein-packed meals at Eating Well.

Expert Tips

Don’t overcook the shrimp; they turn rubbery quickly. Look for a slight curl and pink color as your doneness cues. Make this meal ahead by prepping the broccoli and shrimp separately and tossing with lemon just before serving to keep flavors fresh.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to preserve shrimp tenderness.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth for moisture.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; just ensure any added sauces are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: The recipe is already dairy-free.
• Refined-Sugar-Free: No added sugars in this recipe.

FAQ

• Is Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli healthy? Absolutely! It combines lean protein and fiber-rich veggies, ideal for balanced meals.
• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, thaw completely and pat dry for best results.
• What sides go well with this dish? Serve with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• How do I make this dish spicier? Increase crushed red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
• Can I meal prep Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli? Yes, it stores well and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners.

Call to Action

Try this Easy Lemon Shrimp with Broccoli dinner tonight! Leave a comment below with your favorite tweaks, rate the recipe if you loved it, and share with friends looking for simple, healthy meals.

For more zesty ideas, explore our Zesty Healthy Recipes collection or browse through Food Network for inspiration.