20 Minute Meals – Quick, Easy, and Delicious Recipes for Busy Days
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy, home-cooked meal can feel overwhelming. That’s where 20 minute meals come to the rescue! These recipes are quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to compromise taste for convenience.
This particular recipe is a Garlic Butter Shrimp with Veggies and Rice—a wholesome one-pan meal packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, all ready in under 20 minutes. It’s proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prep shrimp and veggies – Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Prepare sliced vegetables and set aside.
- Heat oil and butter – In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil.
- Cook shrimp – Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables – Add garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli to the same skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine – Return shrimp to the pan, add lemon juice and red pepper flakes, and toss everything together.
- Serve – Spoon over warm jasmine rice, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy immediately.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 4
Tips & Variations
- Make it low-carb: Swap rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Add more flavor: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or drizzle with extra lemon juice.
- Protein swap: Use chicken breast strips or tofu instead of shrimp.
- Spicy twist: Add chili paste or Sriracha for a kick.
- Meal prep tip: Keep pre-cooked rice in the fridge to cut cooking time even further.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 kcal |
| Protein | 29 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Use cooking spray instead of butter and olive oil.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; just ensure rice is plain without added sauces.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace rice with sautéed cauliflower rice and increase butter.
- Dairy-Free: Use all olive oil instead of butter.
- Sugar-Free: This recipe is naturally sugar-free and balanced.
Serving Suggestions
This 20 minute meal is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or keep it light with just the shrimp and veggies over rice.
Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting a quick dinner party, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish proves that fast food doesn’t have to be unhealthy or bland. With bold garlic butter flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s bound to become a weeknight staple in your home.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking for best texture.
Q2: What’s the best rice to use?
Jasmine or basmati rice works great, but brown rice or quinoa are excellent healthier swaps.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, cook and store in airtight containers. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Q4: Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Asparagus, snap peas, or mushrooms all make delicious substitutions.
Q5: How do I keep the shrimp juicy?
Avoid overcooking—shrimp only needs 2–3 minutes per side. Once pink and opaque, they’re ready.
