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Healthy Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 102 reviews

This Healthy Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa is a flavorful and nutritious meal featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil, served over fluffy quinoa cooked in low-sodium chicken broth. Enhanced with fresh lemon juice, chili powder, and fresh parsley, this dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner that balances protein and whole grains effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasonings

  • 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 pound raw tail-on shrimp (26–30 count), peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped yellow onion (about half of 1 small onion)
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, plus additional for serving
  • 1 large lemon

Quinoa

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and allow to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: While the quinoa cooks, heat 2 teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with half of the kosher salt (½ teaspoon) and half of the chili powder (¼ teaspoon). Sauté the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on size. Sprinkle cayenne pepper evenly over the shrimp and stir to combine with the garlic and onion mixture.
  4. Add Lemon and Parsley: Squeeze the juice of the large lemon over the shrimp and stir in the 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding the remaining salt and chili powder for desired spice and saltiness.
  5. Combine and Serve: Plate the fluffy quinoa as a base and top it with the garlic shrimp mixture. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately for a warm, healthy, and delicious meal.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa helps remove its natural bitterness and improves texture.
  • Peeling and deveining shrimp before cooking ensures better flavor and presentation.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat according to your taste preference.
  • Using low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish heart-healthy and allows for better salt control.
  • Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing tang to the dish.

Keywords: garlic shrimp, quinoa, healthy shrimp recipe, low sodium, quick dinner, seafood dinner, lemon parsley shrimp

Find it online: https://mjrecipe.com/healthy-garlic-shrimp-with-quinoa-recipe/