Lemon Butter Shrimp Broccoli

Featured in: Quick Weeknight Dinners

This dish features succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli sautéed gently in a vibrant lemon-garlic butter sauce. The broccoli is first blanched to preserve its bright color and crunch, then combined with garlic-scented butter and fresh lemon juice for a bright, flavorful finish. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, this meal balances richness and zest perfectly. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges, it’s a quick yet elegant option that pairs well with rice, quinoa, or pasta.

Updated on Sat, 15 Nov 2025 11:47:00 GMT
Tender Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli, perfectly cooked, is served with a vibrant lemon wedge on the side. Save
Tender Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli, perfectly cooked, is served with a vibrant lemon wedge on the side. | whisknjoy.com

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

I love making this recipe for busy weeknights when I want something that feels special but comes together quickly. The bright flavors and the simplicity always impress my family.

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Ingredients

  • Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • Broccoli florets: 4 cups (300 g)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g)
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
  • Lemon juice: 3 tbsp (about 1 large lemon)
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
  • Red pepper flakes: Pinch (optional)
  • Lemon wedges: For serving

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Instructions

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.
Combine Ingredients:
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.
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| whisknjoy.com

My kids especially love dipping their shrimp in extra lemon juice, and every time I make this it brings back memories of summer dinners together at the table.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Required Tools

Large skillet, pot for blanching broccoli, colander, knife and cutting board, zester or grater.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 260, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 7 g, Protein 23 g.

A close-up shot of Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli showcases the glistening shrimp and bright green broccoli florets. Save
A close-up shot of Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli showcases the glistening shrimp and bright green broccoli florets. | whisknjoy.com

With its bright flavors and speedy preparation, this shrimp and broccoli dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Recipe FAQ

How do I keep broccoli crisp-tender?

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

Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp fully and pat dry before cooking to ensure even sautéing and prevent excess moisture.

What’s a good substitute for butter in this preparation?

Use olive oil or a plant-based alternative to achieve a dairy-free version while still providing richness.

How can I add more color to the dish?

Incorporate cherry tomatoes during the sauté for vibrant color and a hint of sweetness.

What wines pair well with this dish?

Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the bright lemon and buttery notes perfectly.

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Lemon Butter Shrimp Broccoli

Tender shrimp and crisp broccoli come together with lemon and garlic in a buttery sauce.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
15 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Sophia Turner

Classification Quick Weeknight Dinners

Skill Level Easy

Cultural Background American

Output 4 Portion Count

Dietary considerations No Gluten, Low-Carbohydrate

Components

Seafood

01 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off

Vegetables

01 4 cups broccoli florets
02 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Sauce

01 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 Zest of 1 lemon
04 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
05 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
07 Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

To Serve

01 Lemon wedges

Preparation Steps

Stage 01

Blanch Broccoli: Bring salted water to a boil and blanch broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and set aside.

Stage 02

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

Stage 03

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

Stage 04

Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Add blanched broccoli, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss gently to coat and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.

Stage 05

Finish and Serve: Remove skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

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Necessary tools

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for blanching broccoli
  • Colander
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Zester or grater

Allergy details

Review all ingredients for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're unsure about any item.
  • Contains shellfish and dairy. Substitute butter with plant-based alternative for dairy allergies. Verify labels for other allergens.

Nutritional content (each portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 260
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Proteins: 23 g

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