Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Cook the rice with 2 cups of water and 1/2 tsp of salt until fluffy. Once cooked, set it aside.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tsp of Chef Bae seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. For the scallops, just season lightly with 1/2 tsp of Chef Bae seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil.
- In a skillet heated over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the broccoli and lightly sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of Chef Bae seasoning. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until it becomes tender and has a light char. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reuse the same skillet by heating 1 tbsp of butter and the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set them aside after they’re done.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tbsp of butter to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic and lemon juice, tossing the shrimp and scallops together in the garlic butter for an additional 30 seconds.
- For serving, place the rice on the plate first, layer the sautéed broccoli on top, followed by the shrimp and scallops. Don’t forget to spoon some of that extra garlic butter sauce over everything!
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate! To elevate your presentation, consider serving it in shallow bowls, where the vibrant colors of the shrimp, scallops, and broccoli can shine. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the flavors. If you’re looking to add more veggies, a side salad of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the garlic butter beautifully.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep leftovers fresh, store any unconsumed Garlic Butter Shrimp and Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through—just be careful not to overcook the seafood during reheating. For longer-term storage, you can freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month; to reheat, let thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently on the stove.
Helpful cooking tips
To make this dish even better, consider these little nuggets of wisdom:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking seafood; give them room to sear properly.
- If you want extra flavor, let the shrimp and scallops marinate in the seasonings for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
- For a kick of heat, you can toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Different ways to try it
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Swap the broccoli for asparagus or green beans, or use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist. You can also add a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a refreshing finish. For a creamy version, consider adding a splash of cream towards the end of cooking.
FAQs
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Scallops recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it suitable for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I use frozen shrimp or scallops?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking, as excess moisture can prevent a nice sear.
What’s a good substitute for Chef Bae seasoning?
If you don’t have Chef Bae seasoning on hand, you can create your own blend using equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
