What if you could have a restaurant quality dinner on the table in just 20 minutes? This one pan garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution that combines succulent shrimp and roasted vegetables in a flavorful homemade dish – save this idea for a fast and delicious family favorite meal to try soon

one pan 20 – minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies with text overlay

Introduction

Imagine a dish so flavorful, so easy to make, and yet so impressive that it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Look no further than our one pan 20-minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe. This masterpiece combines the succulence of shrimp, the vibrancy of colorful vegetables, and the richness of garlic parmesan, all cooked to perfection in just one pan. The best part? It’s incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort and everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick dinner solution or an avid cook seeking to impress your family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and a variety of vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and healthy. The ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this dish accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: With a preparation time of just a few minutes, this recipe is perfect for those with limited time. The one-pan method simplifies cleanup and reduces cooking time, making it a practical choice for any day of the week.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents beautifully, with the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the golden brown shrimp making it a visually appealing meal. The garlic parmesan sauce adds a luxurious touch, making it suitable for special occasions as well.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its use of simple, yet flavorful ingredients. You’ll need large shrimp, peeled and deveined, a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of pasta or rice for serving. For the garlic parmesan sauce, you’ll also need butter, flour, chicken broth, and grated parmesan cheese. Feel free to substitute the vegetables with your favorites or what’s in season, and don’t hesitate to add some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Measure out the olive oil, butter, flour, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese.
2. Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the chopped vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Then, add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens, then remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Step 4: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to combine, ensuring the shrimp and vegetables are well coated with the garlic parmesan sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you like. Serve immediately over pasta or rice, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Handy Tips

• For an extra burst of flavor, use high-quality parmesan cheese and fresh garlic. Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. If using pasta, cook it al dente to provide a nice contrast in texture to the dish.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe. Start with medium-high heat to sear the shrimp and then reduce the heat to medium to cook the vegetables and prevent burning. When making the garlic parmesan sauce, keep the heat low to prevent the butter from burning and to allow the sauce to thicken gradually. The ideal internal temperature for cooked shrimp is 120°F – 145°F (49°C – 63°C), and they should be opaque and firm to the touch.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture is key to the success of this dish. The vegetables should be tender but still crisp, providing a satisfying crunch. The shrimp should be cooked just until they’re done, retaining their succulence. If you prefer a crisper top on your garlic parmesan sauce, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or until golden brown, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the garlic from burning, add it towards the end of cooking the vegetables. For easier cleanup, line your skillet with parchment paper before cooking. To make the dish more substantial, add some cooked sausage or chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, it’s best to package it in a way that keeps it warm and fresh. Use thermal containers or wrap the dish in foil and place it in a gift basket filled with crusty bread, a salad, and a bottle of wine for a complete meal. You can also package the garlic parmesan sauce separately in a jar, along with the recipe, for a thoughtful and unique gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some dried basil, oregano, or thyme to the garlic parmesan sauce for an Italian twist. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.
• Creative toppings: Top the dish with toasted pine nuts, chopped fresh parsley, or grated lemon zest for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a bit of flour to thicken.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor.
• Over/undercooking signs: Shrimp are done when they’re opaque and firm to the touch. If they’re undercooked, they’ll be translucent and soft. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe as stated is gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of your chicken broth and pasta (if using) to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet to accommodate all the ingredients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our one pan 20-minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe is a game-changer for any home cook. It’s quick, flavorful, and impressive, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is accessible to cooks of all levels. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delightful combination of garlic, parmesan, and seafood in this mouthwatering dish!