One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice
Incorporating nutrient-rich ingredients into your meals can significantly enhance your overall health, particularly benefiting brain function and the immune system. Let’s explore the key components of this dish and their health benefits.
Shrimp:
- Lean Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Rich in omega-3s, shrimp supports brain health and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Provides vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function, and selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Spinach:
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for immune function and skin health.
- Iron: Supports oxygen transport in the blood, enhancing energy levels.
- Antioxidants: Contains compounds that combat oxidative stress, promoting overall health.
Lemon:
- Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and aids in the absorption of iron from spinach.
- Antioxidant Properties: Helps protect the body against free radicals.
By combining these ingredients, this dish not only delights the palate but also provides a powerhouse of nutrients that support cognitive function and strengthen the immune system.
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice
Course: Lunch, DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes354
kcalThe One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice is a hearty and satisfying main course, ideal for lunch or dinner. It combines protein-rich shrimp, flavorful rice, and fresh spinach, making it a complete meal. While it’s not typically served as an appetizer, you can adjust the portion size to offer smaller servings as a starter if desired.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Sauté the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion; sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add Rice and Broth:
Pour in the rice, stirring to coat with the oil and aromatics.
Add chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. - Incorporate Shrimp and Spinach:
Arrange shrimp on top of the rice; scatter spinach leaves over the shrimp.
Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through, and rice is tender. - Finish and Serve:
Remove from heat; let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the shrimp and spinach.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. - Chill until ready to serve. Overlap the cucumber and tomato on the side of each plate, sprinkle over the crispy fried onions.
Tips:
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.
Adjust seasoning to taste; add more lemon juice or salt if desired.
Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
