Garlic Butter Shrimp with Fluffy Quinoa is a beautifully balanced dish that brings together bold flavor and wholesome nutrition. Juicy shrimp are quickly sautéed in rich butter infused with fragrant garlic, a touch of lemon, and fresh herbs, then served over light, fluffy quinoa that soaks up every drop of the savory sauce. This recipe feels elegant enough for a special dinner yet simple enough for busy weeknights.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and nourishing all at once. The shrimp are tender and juicy, the garlic butter sauce is indulgent without being heavy, and the quinoa makes the meal filling yet light. It’s one of those dishes that tastes luxurious but fits easily into everyday cooking.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Packed with lean protein and nutrients
• Rich garlic butter flavor with a fresh finish
• Naturally gluten-free
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings, Calories, Course & Cuisine

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~420 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Modern American

Ingredients

For the Fluffy Quinoa

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Bring water or broth to a boil; add quinoa and salt.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and fluff quinoa with a fork.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
6. Add shrimp, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
7. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
8. Finish with lemon juice and parsley.
9. Serve shrimp over quinoa with garlic butter sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Rinse quinoa: Removes bitterness.
2. Cook quinoa: Simmer until fluffy and tender.
3. Heat butter and oil: Prevents butter from burning.
4. Sauté garlic: Release aroma without browning.
5. Cook shrimp: Quick cooking ensures juiciness.
6. Finish sauce: Lemon and herbs brighten flavor.
7. Assemble: Spoon shrimp and sauce over quinoa.

How to Serve

Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp hot over a bed of fluffy quinoa. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use large or jumbo shrimp for best texture
• Do not overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery
• Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness
• Add lemon zest for extra brightness
• Use broth instead of water for richer quinoa

Variations (In Detail)

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add more chili flakes or cayenne
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Stir in a splash of cream
• Herb Butter Shrimp: Add thyme or basil
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Increase lemon juice and zest
• Low-Fat Version: Use olive oil instead of butter

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze shrimp and quinoa separately up to 1 month
• Reheating: Gently reheat on stovetop or microwave

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring cups
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q: Is quinoa healthier than rice?
A: Quinoa is higher in protein and fiber than white rice.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.

Q: What vegetables go well with this dish?
A: Asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, or spinach work well.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Fluffy Quinoa is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a satisfying, flavorful meal. With its juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic butter sauce, and light yet nourishing quinoa base, this dish checks every box—quick, healthy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed dinner with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite on your table.