Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Light: Packed with protein and greens for a wholesome meal.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Bold and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and spice is irresistible.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board and knife
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs or spatula
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp & Baby Bok Choy
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp & Baby Bok Choy is a quick, flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet elegant dinner. The juicy shrimp are coated in a spicy, garlicky butter sauce, while the tender-crisp baby bok choy adds freshness and balance. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- ½ lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
For the Baby Bok Choy:
- 4–5 heads of baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
- Toss the shrimp with paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Bok Choy
- In the same skillet, add sesame oil. Place the baby bok choy cut side down and sear for 2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add soy sauce and water. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet.
- Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, and sriracha (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate the shrimp alongside the baby bok choy. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly, so remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink.
- Fresh Bok Choy: Choose baby bok choy with crisp, green leaves and firm stalks for the best texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Use less chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer a milder dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.
Q2: What can I substitute for baby bok choy?
A: Use regular bok choy, spinach, or even broccoli for a similar result.
Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or extra olive oil.
Conclusion: A Quick and Flavorful Favorite
This Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp & Baby Bok Choy is a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. With its bold flavors, quick prep, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Did you try this recipe? Share your photos with us using #GarlicButterShrimpBokChoy!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this vibrant and satisfying dish tonight!