Lemon Butter Shrimp Broccoli

Featured in: Cozy Weeknight Meals

This dish features tender shrimp and broccoli florets lightly blanched and sautéed together in a rich lemon-garlic butter sauce. Fresh lemon juice and zest enliven the buttery base, while garlic, parsley, and a hint of spice elevate the flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, it elegantly balances bright citrus notes with savory seafood and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for an easy, wholesome dinner that pairs well with grains or pasta.

Updated on Sat, 15 Nov 2025 11:46:00 GMT
Tender Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli, glistening with a vibrant lemon sauce, ready to serve. Save
Tender Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli, glistening with a vibrant lemon sauce, ready to serve. | blipbite.com

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

I first made this lemon butter shrimp & broccoli on a hectic weeknight when I needed something fast but still wanted a meal that felt special. The sizzling garlic and zesty citrus filled my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that my family loved.

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: To serve

Instructions

Blanch the broccoli:
Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
Cook garlic and shrimp:
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. 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 and finish:
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 to 2 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
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Sharing this meal with my family brings back memories of quick laughs and lively conversations at the dinner table as we dig into the perfectly coated shrimp and broccoli.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal, or keep it light with a leafy green salad on the side.

Allergen Information

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (butter). For dairy allergies, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides approximately 260 calories, 16 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 23 g protein for a well-balanced main course.

Freshly cooked Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli: a flavorful blend of shrimp and broccoli florets. Save
Freshly cooked Lemon Butter Shrimp & Broccoli: a flavorful blend of shrimp and broccoli florets. | blipbite.com

This lemon butter shrimp & broccoli is full of flavor and brightens up your weeknight dinner. Enjoy every zingy, buttery bite!

Kitchen Guide

How can I ensure shrimp cooks perfectly?

Cook shrimp over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and pink. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

What’s the best way to keep broccoli crisp-tender?

Blanch broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2 minutes, then drain immediately to preserve a bright color and crisp texture.

Can I substitute butter for a dairy-free option?

Yes, replace butter with extra olive oil or a plant-based alternative to maintain flavor while keeping it dairy-free.

How can I add more color and flavor?

Try incorporating cherry tomatoes for extra vibrancy and a touch of sweetness alongside the lemon and garlic.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta complement the flavors and make it a heartier meal.

Lemon Butter Shrimp Broccoli

Succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli tossed in a tangy lemon-garlic butter sauce, ready in minutes.

Prep duration
10 min
Heat time
15 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Megan Lewis


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Guidelines No Gluten, Carb-Conscious

Components

Seafood

01 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

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

Method

Phase 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.

Phase 02

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

Phase 03

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

Phase 04

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

Phase 05

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

Tools needed

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

Allergy Details

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains shellfish and dairy. Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives for dairy allergy.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy: 260
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Proteins: 23 g