Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a meal that bursts with flavor, is loaded with fresh vegetables, and comes together in no time, then you’ll fall in love with Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, crisp-tender vegetables, and a savory blend of garlic and Parmesan, creating a wholesome yet decadent dish that’s just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for impressing dinner guests. With its colorful presentation and bright, bold flavors, Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is sure to become a new staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is delightfully simple, yet each component packs a punch. Every item here is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the dish, bringing vibrant color, irresistible aroma, and unbeatable taste to your table.

• Large shrimp: Look for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time; their sweet, briny flavor is the star of the show.
• Cherry tomatoes: These add juicy bursts of sweetness and a pop of color.
• Bell pepper: Diced bell pepper offers lovely crunch and subtle sweetness; any color works!
• Medium zucchini: Sliced zucchini turns tender in the skillet and pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
• Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing, olive oil infuses everything with rich flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a bold, aromatic backbone to the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish that melts beautifully over veggies and shrimp.
• Italian seasoning: An easy blend that brings classic Mediterranean notes.
• Salt: Just a pinch heightens all the other vibrant flavors.
• Black pepper: Adds warmth and a tiny kick.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle in to give the dish a touch of gentle heat.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch for brightness and color.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp and Veggies

Start by giving your shrimp a quick rinse under cold water—if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed before you move on. Pat them dry with paper towels to help them brown nicely later. While the shrimp rest, chop your bell pepper into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the zucchini into rounds. Prepping everything in advance will make the rest of this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies recipe a breeze.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Place your shrimp in a mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, then add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together with your hands or a spoon until the shrimp are well coated. This quick marinade is what brings those iconic garlic and herb flavors that make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies so irresistible.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a swirl of olive oil. Drop in your bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften but still have pleasant texture. The colors should become even more vibrant—this is the moment Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies starts to look as good as it tastes!

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Push the vegetables to the sides of the skillet to make room for the shrimp, then add them in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque; be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. The garlic will get wonderfully aromatic at this stage, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the shrimp and veggies, gently stirring everything to combine. The cheese will melt slightly, coating the shrimp and vegetables with rich, savory flavor. If you like a little heat, now is the time to add the red pepper flakes. Give everything a final toss, then remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies

Garnishes

A little extra touch can take your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies from delicious to spectacular. A generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness. If you’re a cheese lover, grate a bit more Parmesan on top just before serving to add a lovely, salty garnish. A squeeze of fresh lemon will brighten the flavors even further.

Side Dishes

This dish is delightfully versatile, pairing well with so many sides! Try serving Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or your favorite pasta for a heartier meal. Crusty bread is always a good idea for soaking up those garlicky juices. If you’re keeping things light, a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice is a refreshing complement.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by skewering the shrimp and veggies for a playful kabob-style presentation, or serve everything family-style in a large, beautiful platter. For a dinner party, portion Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies into individual bowls and top with a lemon wedge for a restaurant-worthy look. You could even stuff leftovers into a wrap or tortilla for a delicious next-day lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies, allow the food to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen, giving you an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

While shrimp tends to have the best texture when freshly cooked, you can freeze this dish successfully if needed. Pack cooled Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Be sure to reheat gently to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftovers is in a skillet over low heat, just until the shrimp are warmed through. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds to warm evenly. If the cheese or sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen things up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure your frozen shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before using. This ensures that your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies won’t turn out watery and allows the seasonings to stick properly.

What other vegetables can I add?

There’s plenty of room to customize. Broccoli florets, snap peas, or mushrooms all work beautifully with the garlic Parmesan flavors and will give the dish your own personal twist.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Shrimp cook very quickly. Once they turn pink and opaque, immediately remove them from the heat. Cooking them just to this point will keep them juicy and tender.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies dairy-free?

You can, with just a few swaps! Use your favorite dairy-free Parmesan substitute or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies is naturally gluten-free as written, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just double-check seasonings and cheese labels to be extra sure.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about how a few simple ingredients can create a meal as vibrant, comforting, and craveworthy as Garlic Parmesan Shrimp & Veggies. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends and family, this recipe absolutely delivers. I can’t wait for you to experience just how easy and delicious it is—be sure to give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your own kitchen!

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