This colorful dish features juicy shrimp and savory sausage cooked together with tender broccoli. The sweet honey and zesty garlic add a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible!
Honestly, this meal is a real crowd-pleaser, and it comes together quickly! I love serving it over rice for an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen large shrimp works best, but feel free to swap them for scallops or chicken if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked to the proper temperature!
Smoked Sausage: Any smoked sausage will add great flavor. Turkey or chicken sausage are healthier options, and for a meat-free version, try plant-based sausage.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal. If you don’t have it, snap peas or green beans can make a nice substitute. Just adjust the cooking time for tenderness.
Honey: If you need a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup can work. They give a lovely sweetness similar to honey but with their unique flavors.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. Both have similar taste profiles and work well in this recipe.
How Do You Ensure the Shrimp Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with shrimp that are evenly sized—this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Cook shrimp on medium-high heat. They should turn pink and curl slightly when done, which usually takes 2-3 minutes per side.
- Be careful not to overcook—shrimp can become tough and rubbery if left on the heat too long!
Keep an eye on them, and you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Savory Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set this aside; you’ll add it later!
2. Cook the Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and let it cook until browned and heated through, about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it’s fragrant and translucent.
4. Add the Broccoli:
Now, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook them, stirring frequently, for about 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender.
5. Add Garlic:
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until it’s aromatic.
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook them until they turn pink and opaque, around 2-3 minutes on each side.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp, sausage, and vegetables. Stir everything together to coat evenly.
8. Let it Simmer:
Allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped chives or green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!
This dish is not only flavorful but also colorful and satisfying! Perfect for a delicious family dinner. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ for Savory Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage with Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A quick method is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Just be sure to pat them dry before adding them to the skillet to avoid excess moisture!
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Dish?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, you can substitute the shrimp and sausage with firm tofu and some additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Use a plant-based sausage for added flavor as well!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cut all the vegetables in advance! However, it’s best to cook the shrimp and sausage just before serving to ensure everything remains fresh and retains its texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or additional soy sauce to keep it moist!
