Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli
This dish masterfully blends sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, with a honey garlic sauce that caramelizes to a sticky, glossy glaze, enveloping the shrimp, sausage, and broccoli. It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with rice, noodles, or can be enjoyed on its own for a low-carb option. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is quick and easy.
Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing the sauce.
8 oz smoked sausage, sliced: Adds a deep, savory contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, balancing the other flavors.
3 tablespoons honey: The sweet foundation of the sauce that caramelizes beautifully.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds a salty depth to the sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp and sausage.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a creamy richness to the sauce.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional): Adds a bright, tangy finish.
Instructions:
Prep the Ingredients:
Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp, slice the sausage, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, and mince the garlic. Set everything aside.
Cook the Sausage and Broccoli:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender. Set aside with the sausage.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook. Remove and set aside.
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, then add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glossy.
Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked sausage, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything to coat well with the honey garlic sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through. Optionally, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy brightness.
Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Serving Suggestions:
As a Main Dish: Serve over rice, quinoa, or your favorite noodles to soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Enjoy on its own or with cauliflower rice for a satisfying, low-carb meal.
Tips for the Best Results:
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are ideal, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on them and remove as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of honey to suit your taste preferences.
Variations and Substitutions:
Spicy Honey Garlic: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha for more heat.
Add More Vegetables: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp and sausage with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
This Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli dish is sure to become a favorite, whether served for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. Enjoy the rich, harmonious flavors in every bite!