Savor balsamic Glazed Shrimp with Roasted brussels sprouts
Savor balsamic glazed shrimp with roasted Brussels sprouts is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the rich, tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze with tender, flavorful shrimp and irresistibly crispy Brussels sprouts. Inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavors, this recipe elevates weeknight dinners into an elegant culinary experience. The glaze’s luscious combination of tart balsamic vinegar and deep molasses-like sweetness cuts through the natural brininess of shrimp, bringing an exquisite balance ideal for seafood lovers seeking a fresh yet comforting plate.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 as a main course
Difficulty Level
Medium - perfect for confident home cooks looking to impress
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce until thickened and syrupy,about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season the shrimp: Toss the shrimp with 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate while you prepare the sprouts.
- roast the Brussels sprouts: preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out so they’re not overcrowded. Roast for 15-20 minutes,turning halfway through,until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.Sear the shrimp in a single layer, cooking about 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a nice sear. Remove shrimp from heat.
- Toss shrimp with balsamic glaze: Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, pour the balsamic glaze over the top, and toss gently to coat.Drizzle with fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Plate and garnish: Serve shrimp alongside the roasted Brussels sprouts. sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and fresh aroma. Optionally, add a wedge of lemon on the side for extra zing.
Tips for Success
- Shrimp Selection: Opt for wild-caught or sustainably farmed large shrimp for a sweeter, firmer bite. Ensure they’re peeled and deveined properly for maximum tenderness.
- Balsamic Glaze: Slow simmering allows the vinegar to sweeten without becoming bitter. Stir frequently and watch closely to prevent burning.
- Roasting Brussels Sprouts: Cut them in half and spread with the cut side down for that perfect caramelized crispiness. Don’t overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the balsamic glaze up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container. Gently reheat before serving.
- Variations: Add toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra texture and complexity.
Serving Suggestions
For an unforgettable meal, plate the balsamic glazed shrimp atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside garlic-infused couscous to soak up the luscious glaze. Complement the dish with a crisp white wine like sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot grigio to enhance the tangy notes. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs such as basil or thyme to brighten the presentation.
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
Discover more simple shrimp recipes that elevate everyday dinners. For detailed guidance on selecting fresh seafood, visit the FDA’s seafood safety guide.
Q&A
Q&A: savor Balsamic Glazed Shrimp with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Q1: What makes balsamic glazed shrimp a standout dish?
A1: Balsamic glazed shrimp strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The rich, slightly syrupy balsamic reduction coats the shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness while adding depth and complexity. This glaze transforms simple shrimp into a gourmet experience that’s both elegant and comforting.
Q2: why pair shrimp with roasted Brussels sprouts?
A2: Brussels sprouts bring a hearty,earthy contrast that complements the bright,tender shrimp beautifully. Roasting caramelizes their outer leaves, creating a crispy texture and nutty flavor that echoes the glaze’s sweetness. This pairing is a delightful dance of textures and tastes-crispy meets succulent, and bitter meets sweet.
Q3: How do you achieve the perfect balsamic glaze?
A3: The key is patience and the right ratio.Simmer balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or brown sugar over medium-low heat until it reduces by half and becomes thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling too vigorously-it should gently bubble to prevent burning and preserve that vibrant, tangy punch.
Q4: What’s the best method for roasting Brussels sprouts?
A4: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a stir so they cook evenly and develop that irresistible golden-brown crust.
Q5: Any tips for cooking shrimp to perfection?
A5: Keep it rapid and simple! Use large, peeled shrimp and cook them in a hot pan with a splash of olive oil or butter. They only need about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and firm. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so watch closely to ensure they stay juicy and tender.
Q6: Can this dish be adapted for special diets?
A6: Absolutely! It’s naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it great for paleo or keto lifestyles. For a vegan twist, swap shrimp for marinated tofu or roasted cauliflower florets, and use a balsamic glaze made without honey-maple syrup works beautifully as a plant-based sweetener.
Q7: What sides or drinks pair well with this meal?
A7: Light, fresh sides like a crisp arugula salad or lemon quinoa bring brightness to the plate without overpowering the main flavors. As for drinks, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lime enhances the tangy notes of the balsamic glaze and cleanses the palate.
Q8: Why should I try making balsamic glazed shrimp with roasted Brussels sprouts at home?
A8: This dish proves that gourmet flavors don’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s a quick, nutritious meal packed with vibrant taste and texture, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner on a weeknight. Plus, cooking at home lets you tailor the glaze’s sweetness or tanginess exactly to your liking-making every bite truly your own.
Concluding Remarks
As the rich, tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze mingles with the tender shrimp and caramelized Brussels sprouts, each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and invigorating. This dish not only celebrates the vibrant taste of fresh ingredients but also transforms a simple dinner into a memorable experience. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight fuel or entertaining guests, savoring balsamic glazed shrimp with roasted Brussels sprouts invites you to enjoy the art of flavor done right-where every mouthful tells a story of balance, boldness, and culinary delight. so next time you’re looking to elevate your plate, let this recipe be your savory guide to tasty simplicity.
