If comfort food had a vibrant, flavorful ambassador, this Shrimp Rice Recipe would be it. Bursting with plump, juicy shrimp, tender rice infused with aromatic garlic and onion, and just the right hint of paprika and lemon, it’s a dish that invites you to savor every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe delivers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes that feels both hearty and fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this Shrimp Rice Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the sweet-savory shrimp to the fragrant garlic and the bright burst of lemon juice that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein, tender and full of flavor, ensuring every bite is meaty and satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth fruitiness and helps gently cook the aromatics.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings a creamy richness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): For that irresistible, pungent aroma that pairs perfectly with shrimp.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth, building the base of the dish’s flavor.
- 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked): The hearty foundation, fluffy and light when cooked right.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses the rice with savory goodness and keeps it moist.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Offers a warm, earthy note and a gentle color boost.
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional): For those who like a whisper of heat to balance the dish.
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables: Adds pops of color and fresh, sweet flavor.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens everything with a refreshing zing.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley: A fresh herbal finish that enhances visual appeal and taste.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to pull all the flavors together.
How to Make Shrimp Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by gently heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When warm, add the garlic and diced onion, stirring occasionally until they soften and become fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. This simple step builds a flavorful base that will infuse the rice and shrimp with comforting aroma and richness.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Next, toss in the uncooked rice and stir it around the pan for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the rice slightly helps develop a nuttier flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy, ensuring you end up with perfectly fluffy grains in the final dish.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice with Broth and Spices
Pour in the broth, then add paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the savory broth and spices, becoming tender and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
While the rice simmers, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté them in a separate pan over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Set them aside until the rice is ready, keeping them juicy and tender.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once the rice is tender and the liquid absorbed, stir in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables and let them warm through for a couple of minutes. Then gently fold in the cooked shrimp and squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. This last step adds brightness and balances the richness of the shrimp and butter, making the dish vibrant.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a touch of freshness and color, and serve the Shrimp Rice Recipe warm, ready to delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Shrimp Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add thin lemon wedges for guests to squeeze, or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add a silky finish. For a bit of crunch and contrast, toasted pine nuts work wonderfully too.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs nicely with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to add a variety of textures and flavors to your meal. Consider a tangy cucumber-yogurt salad or grilled asparagus to complement the warm, hearty shrimp rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the shrimp rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or little tomato cups for an eye-catching presentation. You can also plate it atop a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a dollop of creamy avocado for a modern twist that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the shrimp rice to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect quick meal option later in the week.
Freezing
While shrimp rice can be frozen, the texture of shrimp sometimes changes after thawing. If freezing, place the rice (without shrimp) in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to a month. Cooked shrimp can be added fresh when reheating to keep the best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a covered pan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if the rice looks dry. Avoid microwaving at high heat which can toughen the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Pre-cooked shrimp can be stirred in right at the end of cooking just to warm through. This is a great time-saver and still delivers plenty of flavor.
What can I substitute for the paprika?
If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika or chili powder both work well, adding a slightly different dimension of flavor and color.
Is this Shrimp Rice Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Provided you use gluten-free broth, this dish is naturally gluten-free and suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth accordingly and expect a nuttier, chewier texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra chili flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to the shrimp when cooking. A spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the lemon and garlic flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Rice Recipe is one of those versatile, comforting dishes that never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table. It’s simple enough for a busy evening but flavorful enough to feel like a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it your own classic go-to meal.
Print
Shrimp Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Shrimp Rice dish combining tender sautéed shrimp with perfectly cooked long-grain rice, aromatic garlic, and vibrant vegetables. This gluten-free one-pan seafood recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Toast Rice and Simmer: Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it. Add chicken or vegetable broth, paprika, chili flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Cook Shrimp: Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Combine and Heat Vegetables: Once the rice is done, stir in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables and let them warm through for 2–3 minutes, covered.
- Finish the Dish: Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the rice and vegetables mixture. Add the lemon juice for brightness and top with chopped parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine before simmering the rice.
- Finish the dish with grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
- You can use pre-cooked shrimp; just stir them in at the end to warm through without overcooking.
