Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Parmesan Couscous and Shrimp dish combining tender pearl couscous with sautéed shrimp, broccoli, garlic, and a zesty lemon-parmesan finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Ingredients
Grains
- 2 cups cooked pearl couscous
Produce
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed (divided)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
Protein
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled
Dairy
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 ounces freshly grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pearl Couscous: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions until tender but firm. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Broccoli and Garlic: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the broccoli florets along with one crushed garlic clove and sauté until the broccoli is tender-crisp and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled raw shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté the shrimp until they just start turning pink and become opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side depending on size.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Pour in the lemon juice and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the last crushed garlic clove. Stir to combine, allowing the butter to melt and infuse the shrimp and broccoli with flavor.
- Combine with Couscous: Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and stir thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients along with the butter and lemon mixture.
- Add Cheese and Lemon Zest: Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese and lemon zest into the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts evenly into the warm couscous and shrimp mixture.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with extra freshly grated parmesan cheese or a pinch of hot pepper flakes for some heat. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated.
Notes
- Cook couscous just until tender but not mushy to maintain texture.
- Shrimp cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese is preferred for better melting and flavor.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
