Roasted Broccoli with Shrimp: A Symphony of Simple Flavors

There are those dishes that just sing to your soul, the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly and then find yourself making again and again, almost compulsively. For me, this Roasted Broccoli with Shrimp is one of them. It’s the kind of meal that makes you marvel at how mere moments in a hot oven can transform humble ingredients into something so utterly satisfying, so incredibly addictive. I remember the first time I made it, lured by the promise of effortless elegance, and within minutes, my kitchen was filled with the most intoxicating aroma – the nutty char of broccoli mingling with the sweet brine of shrimp. The verdict? Pure, unadulterated culinary bliss, a dish I’d happily devour until the very last bite, no matter how full I already was.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: As per ingredients
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

This recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity, letting the natural flavors of each component shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds broccoli, cut into bite-size florets
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon whole coriander seed (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
• 1 teaspoon whole cumin seed (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, divided
• 1/8 teaspoon hot chili powder
• 1 pound large shrimp, shelled and deveined
• 1 1/4 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
• 1 lemon wedge, for serving

Equipment Needed

To bring this delightful dish to life, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large bowl
• Separate smaller bowl
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Zester or fine grater

Instructions

The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward approach. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor – that’s the mantra here.

1. Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). This high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture in the broccoli and a beautifully seared shrimp.
2. In a generously sized bowl, combine the prepared broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil. Add the whole coriander seed (or ground), whole cumin seed (or ground), 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of the fresh ground black pepper, and the hot chili powder. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring each floret is evenly coated with the aromatic spices and oil. This initial seasoning step is key to infusing the broccoli with depth of flavor.
3. In a separate, smaller bowl, prepare the shrimp. Add the shelled and deveined large shrimp to this bowl. Drizzle them with the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle in the lemon zest, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. Gently toss the shrimp to coat them evenly. The lemon zest will perfume the shrimp, adding a bright, fresh counterpoint to the earthy spices.
4. Now, arrange the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet. It’s important to give the broccoli space so it roasts rather than steams. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the broccoli for 10 minutes.
5. After 10 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Add the seasoned shrimp to the same baking sheet, scattering them amongst the partially roasted broccoli.
6. Return the baking sheet to the oven. Roast for approximately 10 minutes more, or until the shrimp are just opaque and pink, and the broccoli is tender and beautifully golden around the edges. You’ll want to toss everything once halfway through this second roasting period to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on the shrimp; they cook very quickly and can become tough if overcooked. The broccoli should have delightful crispy bits, a testament to the high heat.
7. Once cooked to perfection, serve immediately with lemon wedges. For an extra burst of brightness, you can squeeze the fresh lemon juice all over the shrimp and broccoli just before serving. This final touch of acidity elevates all the flavors.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a chef, I’ve learned that even simple recipes can benefit from a few insider tips.

• Broccoli Prep is Key: When cutting your broccoli, aim for florets that are roughly the same size. This ensures they cook evenly. Don’t discard the stems! Peeled and sliced thinly, they can be roasted alongside the florets for added texture and flavor.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: The single layer on the baking sheet is crucial. Overcrowding will steam the ingredients, resulting in a soggy texture rather than the desired crispness and char. If your baking sheet is too full, use two!
• Shrimp Sizing Matters: While “large” shrimp is specified, any size between medium-large and colossal will work. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using very small or very large shrimp. They should be pink and opaque; if they’re still translucent in the center, they need a little more time.
• Spice Level Control: The chili powder adds a subtle warmth. If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Conversely, omit it entirely for a milder dish.
• Seed vs. Ground: Using whole coriander and cumin seeds offers a more nuanced, toasted flavor. If you opt for ground spices, be mindful that they can sometimes burn more easily at high heat, so keep a closer watch.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is a star on its own, but it also plays well with others.

• Serving: Present this Roasted Broccoli with Shrimp directly from the baking sheet or artfully arranged on a platter. The vibrant green of the broccoli against the pink of the shrimp is visually appealing. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving is a must for that zesty finish. It’s fantastic as a light lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or as a flavorful side dish to grilled fish or chicken.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil, or in a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery and the broccoli mushy.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content for this delicious dish. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and exact portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	282.5 kcal	14%
Calories from Fat	141 kcal
Total Fat	15.7 g	24%
Saturated Fat	2.1 g	10%
Cholesterol	143.2 mg	47%
Sodium	1375.3 mg	57%
Total Carbohydrate	17.1 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	6.4 g	25%
Sugars	3.9 g	15%
Protein	22.1 g	44%

(Note: % Daily Value is based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.)

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is perfect as is, feel free to personalize it!

• Spice It Up: For a more pronounced heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the chili powder.
• Herbaceous Notes: Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro tossed in at the end can add another layer of freshness.
• Citrus Twist: Instead of just zest, a squeeze of lime juice can offer a different, equally delightful, citrus profile.
• Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like asparagus spears or bell pepper strips, ensuring they are cut to a similar size as the broccoli.
• Different Proteins: While shrimp is ideal for its quick cooking time, you could adapt this recipe with other small, quick-cooking proteins like scallops or even thin strips of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-cut broccoli florets?
A: Yes, you can certainly use pre-cut broccoli florets. Just ensure they are a similar bite-size for even cooking.

Q: What’s the best way to devein shrimp if mine aren’t already?
A: Make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp with a small knife and use the tip of the knife or a toothpick to pull out the dark vein.

Q: Why is my broccoli not getting crispy?
A: Ensure your oven is preheated properly to 425°F and that the broccoli is spread in a single layer on the baking sheet, not piled up.

Q: Can I prepare the broccoli and shrimp ahead of time?
A: You can chop the broccoli and prepare the shrimp seasoning mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to toss and roast them just before serving for optimal texture.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: While best fresh, leftovers can be stored and reheated. However, the texture might be slightly softer upon reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Broccoli with Shrimp is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the fact that truly delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s the perfect example of how high heat and a few well-chosen spices can transform simple ingredients into a dish that’s both healthy and utterly irresistible. I encourage you to try it, to experience the satisfying crunch of the broccoli and the tender bite of the shrimp, all brought together by that hint of lemon and spice. Share it with loved ones, or savor it all to yourself – either way, I’m confident it will become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.