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- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 cup quinoa - 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lemon, juiced and zested - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa

Discover a flavorful and nutritious meal with this Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa recipe. Perfectly cooked shrimp are tossed in a vibrant lemon garlic sauce and served atop fluffy quinoa, making for a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this dish is great for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the bright flavors and easy preparation that turns a simple meal into a culinary delight!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup quinoa

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold running water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork before serving.

    Sauté the Shrimp: While the quinoa is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as this can lead to a bitter taste.

      Add Shrimp and Seasoning: Carefully place the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet with the garlic. Season them generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick (if desired). Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through.

        Add Lemon Flavor: Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the lemon zest and juice, along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss all the ingredients together gently to ensure each shrimp is coated in the zesty mixture. Allow it to cook for an additional minute to help the flavors combine beautifully.

          Serve: In serving bowls, first spoon in the fluffy quinoa as a bed for the shrimp. Next, top the quinoa with the aromatic lemon garlic shrimp. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

              Presentation Tips: For an elegant presentation, consider layering the quinoa and shrimp in a clear glass bowl, allowing the vibrant colors to show through. A sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top can add a fresh visual appeal!