Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli: A Healthy, Flavorful, and Quick Weeknight Dinner

If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, this stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and savory Asian-inspired sauces, it’s a dish your whole family will love. Whether you’re watching your carbs or simply want to eat clean, this recipe delivers in both taste and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast & easy: Ready in just 20 minutes!
Healthy: High in protein, low in calories, and packed with fiber.
Customizable: Swap the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even mushrooms.
Perfect for meal prep: Keeps well for lunch or dinner the next day.

Health Benefits

Shrimp:

Low in calories: Shrimp is one of the leanest proteins you can eat.
Rich in nutrients: It provides selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.
High in antioxidants: Astaxanthin in shrimp supports heart and brain health.

Broccoli:

Loaded with vitamins: Especially vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Supports digestion: Thanks to its fiber content.
Cancer-fighting properties: Contains sulforaphane and other phytonutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for a nuttier flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but adds deep umami)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce or honey (for a hint of sweetness)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooked rice, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure everything is ready. Clean and devein the shrimp, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, and mince the garlic and ginger.

Step 2: Cook the shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-fry the broccoli

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the broccoli and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it’s tender-crisp. If needed, add a splash of water and cover the pan for 1 minute to steam it slightly.

Step 4: Add garlic and ginger

Push the broccoli to one side of the pan. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the other side, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (or honey), and the cornstarch slurry. Stir everything together so the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Finish and serve

Let the sauce cook for another 1–2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha.
Use frozen shrimp? Thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water.
Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with jasmine or basmati rice for a classic combo.
Try it with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

Nutritional Info (per serving, without rice)

Calories: ~250
Protein: ~25g
Fat: ~10g
Carbs: ~12g
Fiber: ~3g

Final Thoughts

This stir-fried shrimp and broccoli dish is proof that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. With simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cooking time, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies

Give it a try tonight—and don’t forget to share your version in the comments!