Name: Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Mash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: For the Broccoli Mash:; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets (about 6 cups); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; ½ cup parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; For the Shrimp:; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb. (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or dried garlic); 1 teaspoon crushed chili pepper flakes; 1 knob fresh ginger, grated (optional); Salt and fresh cracked black pepper; Lemon wedges, for garnish

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If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare, look no further than Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Mash. This low-carb, paleo-friendly dinner features perfectly seasoned shrimp paired with a creamy and indulgent broccoli mash. It’s a great way to enjoy a light yet filling meal without compromising on taste. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply want a delicious, healthy option, this dish has it all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp are sautéed to perfection with garlic, chili flakes, and ginger, giving them a spicy and savory kick. The broccoli mash is creamy and rich, thanks to the addition of Parmesan and heavy cream, while still being low in carbs. The combination of protein from the shrimp and fiber from the broccoli makes this meal both filling and nutritious. It’s easy to make, ready in under 40 minutes, and is ideal for those following low-carb or paleo diets. Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Mash

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Mash:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 head broccoli, cut into small florets (about 6 cups)
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon heavy cream
½ cup parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt

For the Shrimp:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb. (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon minced garlic (or dried garlic)
1 teaspoon crushed chili pepper flakes
1 knob fresh ginger, grated (optional)
Salt and fresh cracked black pepper
Lemon wedges, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Broccoli Mash:

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the broccoli and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add 2 cups of broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 7-10 minutes, until the broccoli is soft.
Drain the broccoli and garlic, then transfer to a food processor. Add the heavy cream and pulse until smooth. If the mash is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the remaining broth to adjust the consistency.
Stir in the salt and Parmesan cheese, and pulse once more to combine. Set the mash aside while you prepare the shrimp.

For the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and add them to the skillet.
Sprinkle the shrimp with minced garlic, salt, pepper, ginger (if using), and chili pepper flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Once the shrimp are cooked, add 2 tablespoons of water or broth to the pan to deglaze. Stir well to coat the shrimp with the flavorful browned bits in the pan.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

To Serve:

Spoon the creamy broccoli mash onto plates.
Arrange the spicy garlic shrimp on top of the mash.
Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for a tangy finish.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3-4 servings

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and substitute with grilled or roasted mushrooms for a savory, hearty option.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of chili flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce to the shrimp for an extra spicy kick.
Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan and heavy cream in the broccoli mash and replace with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep the recipe paleo-friendly.
Additional Veggies: Add some sautéed spinach, kale, or zucchini to the broccoli mash for added nutrition and color.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the shrimp and broccoli mash in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to the mash if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work just as well. Make sure to thaw them fully before cooking and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.

Can I make the broccoli mash ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the broccoli mash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a side of fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even cauliflower rice for a completely low-carb meal.

Can I use other vegetables for the mash?

While broccoli gives the mash a great texture, you can use cauliflower, asparagus, or even zucchini as alternatives to suit your preference or dietary needs.

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor for the broccoli mash?

Yes, a blender works too. Just be careful not to over-blend, as you want the mash to have a creamy but slightly chunky texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra chili pepper flakes or use a spicier pepper, like jalapeño or serrano, to ramp up the heat in the shrimp. You can also drizzle some spicy hot sauce over the top before serving.

Can I substitute the olive oil for something else?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a different flavor profile, or avocado oil for a neutral, high-heat cooking oil.

Can I make this dish with chicken instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breast or thighs, seasoned and cooked in the same way as the shrimp.

What’s the best way to ensure the shrimp don’t overcook?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to watch them closely. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. If you overcook them, they’ll become tough and rubbery.

How do I know when the broccoli mash is the right consistency?

The broccoli mash should be creamy and smooth, but you can adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed. If you like it thicker, you can omit some broth.

Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Mash is the perfect blend of healthy, satisfying, and delicious. This dish offers a flavorful combination of perfectly cooked shrimp with a creamy, low-carb broccoli mash that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. Whether you’re following a paleo or low-carb diet, or just want a wholesome dinner that’s quick to prepare, this recipe ticks all the boxes for a healthy, flavorful, and filling meal.

Spicy Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli Mash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients