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.

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

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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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.

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.

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.

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