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This recipe brings together everything I love about quick but flavorful cooking. Sweet honey garlic sauce coats tender shrimp and smoky kielbasa while fresh broccoli adds the perfect crunch. Its become my go to dinner when I want something that feels special but comes together easily. Served over rice it never fails to make everyone happy.
Why This Recipe Works
I love how versatile this dish is. The protein packed combination of shrimp and sausage keeps everyone satisfied while the honey garlic sauce hits all those perfect sweet and savory notes. You can easily switch up the vegetables or grains to make it your own. Every forkful gives you different textures and flavors.
Everything You Need
- Honey Garlic Sauce: A combination of honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes for spice.
- Shrimp: Use fresh large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Frozen shrimp works too if properly thawed and dried.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets are ideal, but pre-cut florets are convenient alternatives.
- Kielbasa: This lightly smoked, pre-cooked sausage can be replaced with Andouille, Chorizo, or other sausages for different flavor profiles.
- Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Lets Cook Together
- Prepare the Sauce and Marinate:
- Mix honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Use half to marinate the shrimp for 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Sausage and Broccoli:
- Add kielbasa slices to the skillet. Cook until lightly browned, then toss in broccoli florets. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return shrimp to the skillet, add the reserved sauce, and cook until everything is evenly coated. Serve over rice or your preferred base.
Add Extra Color
Some nights I toss in colorful bell peppers or sugar snap peas. Carrots and zucchini work beautifully too. Just make sure to time the cooking so everything stays fresh and crisp. The more vegetables you add the more nutritious and beautiful your dish becomes.
Saving For Later
Your leftovers will keep nicely in the fridge for 3 to 4 days in a good container. When youre ready to enjoy again just warm it up in a skillet or the microwave. You can even freeze portions for up to 3 months just let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Serving Ideas
We love this over fluffy white rice that soaks up all the delicious sauce. Sometimes I use quinoa or cauliflower rice to keep things light. A simple side salad or some roasted vegetables makes it a complete meal perfect for any night of the week.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to play with this recipe. Try scallops instead of shrimp or chicken if you prefer. Add more spice if you like heat or keep it mild. For vegetarian friends I skip the sausage and load up on mushrooms and sweet potatoes its just as delicious.
Why This Recipe Never Fails
The beauty of this dish is how it brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special. That sweet and garlicky sauce with smoky sausage and tender shrimp just works. Its quick enough for busy nights but impressive enough for company.
Quick Answers
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, just add them at the very end.
What's the best sausage substitute? Andouille or smoked sausage work great.
Can I skip the red pepper flakes? Of course if you prefer mild flavors.
How do I keep broccoli crisp? Just a quick 3-5 minute sauté does it.
Is this dish gluten-free? Switch to tamari and check your sausage.
Keep Your Leftovers Fresh
Let everything cool down before packing it away in containers. Itll stay good in the fridge for about 4 days. When you reheat just add a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce smooth. I like using a skillet but the microwave works too just stir halfway through.
Freezer Tips
This dish freezes beautifully for busy weeks ahead. Once its completely cool portion it into containers or freezer bags. Label with the date and pop in the freezer itll keep for a few months. Just remember to thaw overnight before reheating.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can I marinate the shrimp?
- Marinate shrimp for at least 20 minutes and up to 2 hours. Don't marinate longer as the acid can affect the texture.
- → Can I use different sausage?
- Yes, while kielbasa works great, you can substitute with any smoked sausage of your choice.
- → What can I serve this with besides rice?
- Try serving over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or noodles. It also works well with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- → Can I make this spicier?
- Add more red pepper flakes to increase the heat level. You can also include fresh chili or hot sauce.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.