What if a delicious weeknight dinner could be ready in just 20 minutes. This quick and easy one pan garlic parmesan shrimp and veggie recipe is a homemade favorite perfect for a family dinner. Pan seared to perfection on the grill with garlic and parmesan, save this idea for your next fast and flavorful meal.

one pan 20 – minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies on the grill

Introduction

Imagine a summer evening, the grill is fired up, and the aroma of garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and leaving you eager for that first bite. This one pan 20-minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to whip up a delicious, flavorful meal with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ with friends and family. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the use of everyday ingredients that come together to create a culinary masterpiece. The combination of succulent shrimp, crispy veggies, and the savory taste of garlic parmesan is a match made in heaven, and the best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, all in one pan, on your grill.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The recipe strikes a perfect balance between the seafood flavor of the shrimp, the earthiness of the veggies, and the richness of the garlic parmesan. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making it accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: The prep time is minimal, and the steps are straightforward. It’s a recipe that anyone can follow, regardless of their cooking experience.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents beautifully and tastes like it was prepared in a high-end restaurant. It’s perfect for impressing your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include large shrimp, a variety of colorful veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs like parsley or basil. For practical substitutions, you can use different types of veggies based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could substitute the shrimp with portobello mushrooms or eggplant for a meaty texture. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and parmesan to your taste, and don’t hesitate to add other spices or herbs to give the dish your own twist.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Peel and de-vein the shrimp, chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and grate the parmesan cheese. This step is crucial as it ensures that all your ingredients are ready to go when you start cooking.
2. Step 2: Heat a large grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to the pan and let it heat up for a minute. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Step 3: Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside. Next, add the chopped veggies to the pan, seasoning with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs. Cook the veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still crisp.
4. Step 4: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and stir gently to combine. Let the cheese melt slightly and bind all the flavors together. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and parsley or basil if desired.

Handy Tips

• Always pat dry the shrimp with a paper towel before cooking to remove excess moisture. This helps the shrimp sear better in the pan.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp or the veggies. The shrimp should be opaque!and firm to the touch, and the veggies should retain some crunch.
• Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite veggies or add some heat with red pepper flakes.

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s essential to maintain a medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the shrimp and to cook the veggies quickly without burning them. If you’re using a grill pan, you can also finish the dish under the broiler for an extra crispy top. Keep an eye on the temperature and adjust as needed to prevent burning. The ideal internal temperature for cooked shrimp is 120°F – 145°F (49°C – 63°C).

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the slightly charred veggies and the crispy parmesan cheese on top. To achieve this, make sure not to overcook the veggies and sprinkle the parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking so it melts but still retains some texture. You can also add some crunchy elements like toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley on top of the dish for extra texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the parmesan cheese, as it makes a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp and veggies in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• Keep it simple but flavorful. Sometimes, less is more. Let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the shrimp and veggies might change upon thawing. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
• Use glass containers for storing leftovers as they preserve the flavors and textures better than plastic containers.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best served fresh, if you’re looking to gift it, consider packaging the ingredients separately in a gift basket. Include a jar of homemade garlic parmesan sauce, a bag of fresh veggies, a pack of shrimp, and a block of parmesan cheese, along with the recipe printed on a cute card. This way, the recipient can prepare the dish at their convenience and enjoy the fresh flavors.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or use Italian seasoning for a more Mediterranean taste.
• Creative toppings: Top the dish with some toasted breadcrumbs, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of lemon juice for added brightness.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option, or use various types of cheese like mozzarella or feta for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the shrimp are tough, they might be overcooked. Try cooking them for less time or checking their internal temperature.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the shrimp and veggies while they’re cooking. Shrimp should turn pink and be opaque, while veggies should be tender but still crisp.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? It’s not recommended to freeze cooked shrimp and veggies as the texture might change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the ingredients separately before cooking.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger pan if necessary to accommodate all the ingredients.

Conclusion

This one pan 20-minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal plan. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the dish your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. With its impressive presentation and mouth-watering flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, fire up your grill, and get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that will leave everyone wanting more.