Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa: A Mouthwatering Recipe for a Delicious Meal
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering recipe for Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa. Packed with protein, fiber, and a burst of flavor, it is perfect for a quick and easy meal that will leave you satisfied.
This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Quinoa is a superfood known for its high protein content. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diet. Additionally, garlic is not only a flavor powerhouse but also offers various health benefits. It boosts the immune system and reduces inflammation.
This recipe is in our cookbook, “Cooking for One – Not an Army,” along with other favorite recipes. It’s made for one, but you can easily double (or triple) this recipe for company or leftovers! If you didn’t get a copy yet, our book is on Amazon right here!
Health Benefits of Garlic, Shrimp, and Quinoa
Let’s dive into the benefits of each ingredient and understand why this dish is a great addition to your diet.
Garlic
Garlic has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It contains a compound called allicin which is responsible for its distinctive aroma and flavor. Allicin has antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Garlic is a potent ingredient for promoting overall health.
One of the key health benefits of garlic is its ability to boost the immune system. It helps in preventing and fighting off common illnesses such as colds and flu. Garlic also has anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic helps reduce inflammation in the body and promotes cardiovascular health.
In addition to these benefits, garlic is known to improve digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and even aid in weight loss. All these make garlic an excellent ingredient to incorporate into your meals.
Shrimp
Shrimp, too, offers a range of health perks. It’s an excellent source of protein. It delivers essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, shrimp is packed with nutrients like selenium which supports thyroid function and boosts immunity.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in shrimp promote heart health by lowering levels of triglycerides and reducing inflammation. These nutrients also support brain health and may even help prevent depression and anxiety.
With its low calorie and carbohydrate content, shrimp fits well into various dietary plans, including weight management and diabetes control.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a highly nutritious grain-like seed that has gained popularity in recent years. It is naturally gluten-free and contains all nine essential amino acids. Quinoa is a complete protein source. This makes it an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake.
Quinoa is also high in fiber which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full for longer. It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron. These are essential for maintaining overall health.
Moreover, quinoa is a low glycemic index food, meaning it is digested slowly and does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
The combination of garlic, shrimp, and quinoa in this recipe not only provides a burst of flavor but also offers a range of health benefits that will nourish your body.
Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa
To make Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa recipe, you will need the following ingredients (printable recipe card below):
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 8 shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
- ½ teaspoon chili powder divided
- 3 teaspoons oil divided
- 2 tablespoons green onion finely chopped
- 1½ cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup uncooked quinoa
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa
- Season shrimp with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon chili powder.
- Saute shrimp in a skillet with 2 teaspoons of the olive oil over medium-high heat, about 3 minutes on each side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Saute green onion in the skillet for about 2 minutes and then add garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the quinoa, cayenne, and remaining salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and remaining oil. Stir to coat the quinoa with the oil and let brown for 2 minutes on medium-low heat.
- Stir in the chicken stock and bring the broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and allow to simmer until the quinoa is tender, about 12-15 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.
- Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
- Scoop quinoa onto a plate and top with shrimp. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
To ensure your Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Minced garlic from a jar may be convenient, but fresh garlic will enhance the taste of the dish.
- Rinse the quinoa well to remove any bitterness. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy and flavorful quinoa.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- Add a splash of white wine to the skillet when cooking the shrimp for an extra layer of flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen.
Variations and Substitutions for Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa
While the Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa recipe is already bursting with flavor, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- Vegetarian Option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the shrimp with pan-seared tofu or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. The garlic and quinoa will still provide a delicious base for a vegetarian meal. Here’s a variation from Walder Wellness.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp. For a richer and creamier version, melt a tablespoon of butter in the skillet before adding the shrimp. Sauté the shrimp in the butter along with the minced garlic, and drizzle them with lemon juice and chopped parsley as usual.
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp. If you enjoy spicy food, add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning. This will give the dish a kick of heat that pairs perfectly with the garlic and quinoa.
- Substitute Quinoa. If quinoa isn’t your thing, mix it up with an alternative like rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Feel free to experiment and adapt the recipe according to your preferences. Cooking is all about creativity. So, don’t be afraid to put your own twist on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Ideas
Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it further by pairing it with some complementary side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions and side dish ideas to enhance your dining experience:
- Crab Cakes: Sometimes we like a seafood night where we go all in. These Crab Cakes from Keto Recipe Collection are yummy, healthy, and made in an instant fryer (or you can just sear them in a pan with pan spray).
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the Garlic Shrimp with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. The roasted flavors will pair well with the garlic and quinoa.
- Salad: Create a refreshing salad to accompany the Garlic Shrimp and Quinoa. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Mediterranean salad with feta cheese and olives can add freshness and balance to the meal.
- Garlic Bread: Indulge in some garlic bread on the side to complement the garlic flavors in the main dish. You can make your own garlic bread by spreading minced garlic and butter on a baguette and toasting it in the oven.
- Avocado Salsa: Whip up a quick and easy avocado salsa to serve alongside the Garlic Shrimp and Quinoa. Simply dice ripe avocados, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, and toss them together with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
These side dishes will add variety and texture to your meal making it a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Can I substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth?
Absolutely! If you prefer the flavor of chicken broth or that’s what you have on hand, feel free to use it as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best to enjoy Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa fresh, you can make the quinoa and cook the shrimp separately in advance. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the quinoa and quickly sauté the shrimp to maintain their freshness.
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can I double the recipe to serve more people?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled to serve a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Dessert Ideas
We are dessert people. And we feel every meals needs to end with dessert. Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa is a meal that is on the light side. This means it won’t make you feel overly full. That being said, we highly recommend our Chocolate Lave Cake for dessert. If you’re not a fan of chocolate, our Lemon Pudding Cake is an excellent option as well. Remember: Save your fork!
Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa has amazing flavors and is packed full of nutrition! Next time you’re looking for a quick and nutritious meal, give this Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa recipe a try. It’s a dish that will keep you coming back for seconds and leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa
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