Description
This easy and flavorful shrimp and rice recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender, perfectly cooked rice infused with garlic, paprika, and a hint of lemon. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing Touches
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat the base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent, laying the flavor foundation of the dish.
- Toast garlic and rice: Stir in the minced garlic and rice, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted and the garlic is aromatic, which helps to deepen the flavor.
- Add broth and spices: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low to let the rice cook gently for 15 minutes.
- Cook shrimp on rice: After 15 minutes, remove the lid and give the rice a gentle stir. Nestle the shrimp evenly on top of the rice, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the shrimp has turned pink and opaque, and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle the dish with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley for brightness and color. Serve hot and enjoy your satisfying shrimp and rice meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste or add a dash of hot sauce when serving.
- Use chicken broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Ensure shrimp are fresh or properly thawed for best texture and taste.
- Long-grain white rice is recommended for the perfect fluffy texture; however, jasmine rice can be used for a subtle fragrant twist.
- Covering the skillet tightly while cooking helps to steam the rice and shrimp evenly.
