Lemon Butter Shrimp Broccoli

Succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli are sautéed in a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce for a vibrant, quick, and flavorful meal.

When I need a speedy dinner that feels special, I always reach for this lemon butter shrimp & broccoli. It comes together in minutes and never fails to impress both family and friends.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
• Broccoli: 4 cups (300 g) broccoli florets
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Parsley: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Butter: 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
• Lemon juice: 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• Salt: 1/2 tsp salt
• Black pepper: 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Red pepper flakes: Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Lemon wedges: To serve

Instructions

Soft, absorbent towels keep counters dry while cooking, wiping spills, and handling dishes during everyday recipe prep.

Check price on Amazon

Blanch Broccoli:

Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Cook Shrimp:

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Add Broccoli and Sauce:

Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to coat everything evenly and cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Pin this

This meal quickly became a weeknight favorite for us, and my kids especially love picking out the bright green broccoli pieces to eat with the tangy shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for added brightness.

Variation Ideas

Try adding cherry tomatoes or use asparagus in place of broccoli. For a touch of heat, increase the red pepper flakes, or add a splash of white wine with the lemon juice.

Allergy and Diet Notes

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (butter)—for allergies, substitute with plant-based ingredients and always check labels for potential allergens.

Pin this

Chop vegetables, slice meats, and prep ingredients easily for everyday cooking and homemade recipes.

Check price on Amazon

This lemon butter shrimp & broccoli is as fresh and bright as it is easy. Give it a try tonight—you'll love every zesty bite!

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep the broccoli crisp and vibrant?

Blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for about 2 minutes, then immediately drain to stop cooking and preserve its bright color and tender-crisp texture.

→ Can I substitute the butter in this dish?

Yes, olive oil can replace butter for a dairy-free version while maintaining richness and flavor.

→ What is the best way to cook the shrimp?

Sauté shrimp in melted butter and olive oil over medium heat for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque for optimal tenderness.

→ How do the lemon ingredients enhance the dish?

Lemon zest and juice bring bright, tangy notes that brighten the butter sauce and complement the shrimp and broccoli flavors.

→ What pairings work well with this seafood and vegetable combination?

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta; a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio also pairs wonderfully.