Healthy Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce – Ready in Just 20 Minutes!

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Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce Recipe

Are you looking for a flavorful and healthy meal that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further than this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce. It's loaded with tender shrimp, crunchy broccoli, and a savory garlic sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe combines everything you love in a stir fry—quick to make, packed with nutrients, and absolutely delicious.

I stumbled upon this amazing recipe in the Family Cook Recipes Facebook group (check them out here). It's a wonderful community full of shared family-favorite meals, and this particular dish has quickly become one of my go-tos. The mix of shrimp and broccoli paired with the garlic-infused sauce is irresistible. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while still enjoying a hearty, protein-packed dish.

A Little Backstory on This Dish

I was first introduced to stir fry recipes when I needed a quick weeknight dinner that didn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. The combination of shrimp and broccoli is one that I've come back to again and again. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood, and the broccoli adds that perfect crunch alongside the rich garlic sauce. Since then, it’s been my go-to for family meals or even meal prep for the week.

Stir fry dishes like this one are rooted in East Asian cuisine, where cooking methods are often about balancing flavors quickly and efficiently. The garlic sauce in this recipe is a nod to Chinese cooking techniques, and the inclusion of soy sauce and oyster sauce brings that umami punch that makes every bite satisfying.

How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
2. Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Stir occasionally and cook until the shrimp turns pink, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and cook them until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. You want the broccoli to retain a bit of crunch for that perfect stir-fry texture.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
5. Combine and thicken: Pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp and broccoli. Stir until the sauce thickens, which should take another 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened and evenly coated the shrimp and broccoli, remove from heat and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Stir Fry

• Shrimp prep: Be sure to use fresh shrimp or defrost frozen shrimp properly. If you're short on time, pre-peeled shrimp can save you a step.
• Customize the veggies: While broccoli is a classic choice, you can switch it up with bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and texture.
• Add spice: For those who love a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

Pairing Ideas

This shrimp and broccoli stir fry is versatile enough to be served with a variety of sides. For a traditional touch, pair it with jasmine rice or brown rice. If you're cutting down on carbs, try serving it over cauliflower rice or even on its own as a light meal. A side of egg rolls or a simple cucumber salad can round out the meal.

Variations for Dietary Preferences

• Gluten-free option: Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms to create a hearty vegetarian version of this stir fry.

This recipe offers a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and a sauce that packs so much flavor, you'll want to make it again and again. The best part? You can have this meal ready in just about 20 minutes!

Final Thoughts

I highly recommend giving this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce a try for your next weeknight dinner. If you’re interested in discovering more family-favorite recipes like this, don’t forget to check out the Family Cook Recipes Facebook group here.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Let me know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share it with your friends and follow me for more delicious recipes like this.