LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP WITH QUINOA PILAF RECIPE
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa Pilaf is a healthy and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp marinated in a tangy garlic and lemon sauce with a nutritious quinoa pilaf packed with vegetables and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for Indian weight loss as it is low in calories, high in protein, and provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fiber. The combination of shrimp and quinoa makes it a satisfying and nourishing meal option.
INGREDIENTS
For Lemon Garlic Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For Quinoa Pilaf:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are pink and cooked through. Set aside.
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute.
Add the rinsed quinoa to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the spices and vegetables.
Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
Fluff the quinoa pilaf with a fork and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp over the Quinoa Pilaf. Garnish with fresh parsley.
TIPS
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture. You can also use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Feel free to add additional vegetables to the quinoa pilaf, such as peas, corn, or spinach, to increase the nutritional value.
- Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitter taste.
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the quinoa pilaf before serving.
- Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as paprika or oregano, to customize the flavor profile according to your liking.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to accommodate the number of servings you need.
- Remember to control your portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet and support your weight loss goals. Enjoy this delicious meal as part of a well-rounded and nutritious eating plan.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
