When dinner calls for simplicity without sacrificing flavor,few dishes answer teh bell quite like One-Pan Garlic Shrimp & Veggies. Imagine tender, succulent shrimp infused with garlicky goodness, mingling effortlessly with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables-all cooked together in a single pan. This easy,flavor-packed meal not only saves you time in the kitchen but also delivers a vibrant,nutritious plate that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends alike. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the flavorful world of one-pan cooking where convenience meets culinary delight.
One-Pan Garlic Shrimp & Veggies: Easy, Flavor-Packed Meal offers a vibrant and wholesome way to enjoy dinner without overcomplicating the process. This dish combines the succulent sweetness of shrimp with crisp,colorful vegetables,all brought together by fragrant garlic and a touch of spice. Inspired by Mediterranean coastal kitchens where fresh, simple ingredients shine, this recipe is designed to be as approachable as it is delicious-perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 15 minutes
- total: 25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Difficulty Level
Easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, releasing its aroma but careful not to brown it.
- Introduce the shrimp to the pan in a single layer,seasoning with salt,pepper,smoked paprika,and red pepper flakes. Cook 2 minutes on one side.
- Flip the shrimp</ and add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and red onion all at once. sauté together for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently to keep the veggies crisp and vibrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed. Cook an additional 2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and vegetables are tender but still bright and firm.
- Remove from heat and garnish liberally with fresh parsley. Serve instantly to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
tips for Success
Choosing the perfect veggies means balancing sweetness and texture – bell peppers and zucchini provide softness, while snap peas add crispness, creating an irresistible contrast against the tender shrimp. Cherry tomatoes burst with juicy acidity that complements the savory garlic base.
Master one-pan cooking by paying close attention to ingredient order and doneness times: shrimp cook fast and overcooking leads to rubberiness, whereas veggies like peppers and snap peas should remain firm to retain their fresh appeal.
Wont to bulk it up? add cooked couscous or quinoa right in at the end for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Make ahead advice: Prep veggies and marinade shrimp in garlic and paprika for up to 24 hours to intensify flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this one-pan garlic shrimp and veggies over a bed of light couscous salad or alongside fluffy steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch and colour contrast. For a crowd-pleasing presentation, transfer everything to a rustic wooden board, scattered with fresh parsley and lemon slices-perfect for sharing and snapping photos before everyone digs in!
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 10g |
For further reading on balancing shrimp textures, visit the Kitchn’s guide on shrimp.
Q&A
Q&A: One-Pan Garlic Shrimp & Veggies – Easy, Flavor-Packed Meal
Q1: What makes this One-pan garlic Shrimp & Veggies recipe so special?
A1: This recipe is a true weeknight hero-combining succulent shrimp, vibrant veggies, and irresistible garlic in a single skillet.It’s a symphony of flavors with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious without the hassle.
Q2: Can I customize the vegetables in this dish?
A2: Absolutely! The recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to swap in your favorites-think bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or snap peas. Just keep in mind cooking times, as some veggies need a bit longer to soften than others.
Q3: How do I keep the shrimp tender and juicy?
A3: The secret is rapid, high-heat cooking. Shrimp only need a few minutes per side before they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so watch them closely-they cook faster than you might expect!
Q4: Is this recipe keto or paleo-pleasant?
A4: Yes, it fits nicely into both keto and paleo diets. Shrimp and fresh vegetables are naturally low-carb, high-protein, and rich in nutrients.Just double-check any seasoning blends or sauces to avoid added sugars or non-compliant ingredients.Q5: What kind of garlic readiness works best here?
A5: Freshly minced garlic is ideal for bursting that bold,aromatic flavor throughout the dish. If you prefer a milder touch, thin garlic slices work beautifully too. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic-it can be less vibrant and sometimes bitter.
Q6: can I make this ahead of time? How should I store leftovers?
A6: You can prep ingredients ahead-peeling shrimp, chopping veggies-to save time. The cooked meal tastes great refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep shrimp tender.
Q7: Any tips for plating or serving?
A7: Serve right from the pan for a rustic vibe, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. Pair it with fluffy rice,quinoa,or a crisp green salad for a full meal that feels both comforting and fresh.
Q8: Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
A8: As it’s customizable and relies on familiar flavors, it tends to please even finicky taste buds. Garlic and shrimp are crowd-pleasers, and you can easily adjust seasoning or veggie choices to suit personal preferences.
Q9: How long does it take from start to finish?
A9: From prep to plate, you’re looking at roughly 20-25 minutes. This includes chopping, cooking shrimp, and tossing veggies-all done in one pan for maximum efficiency and flavor melding.
Q10: What wine pairs well with this meal?
A10: A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlicky shrimp and fresh vegetables beautifully, enhancing the bright and savory notes without overpowering them.
This Q&A captures the essence of the One-Pan Garlic Shrimp & Veggies recipe-simple, customizable, and packed with flavor-perfect for anyone seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.
Insights and Conclusions
with just one pan and a handful of vibrant ingredients, this Garlic Shrimp & Veggies recipe transforms dinner into a delightful, stress-free experience. Bursting with bold flavors and wholesome goodness, it’s proof that quick meals don’t have to sacrifice taste. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a flavor seeker, this easy, flavor-packed dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary routine.So go ahead-embrace the simplicity, savor the garlic-infused aroma, and enjoy a perfectly balanced meal with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
