One-Pan Shrimp And Rice Recipe

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Cook Time: 25 minutes

Bright, zesty, and comforting, this one-pan shrimp and rice dish is packed with flavor yet simple to make. With tender, juicy shrimp layered over fragrant jasmine rice, each bite is a perfect balance of freshness and richness. Using only one pan makes cleanup effortless, and the recipe shines with quality ingredients fresh shrimp, fragrant basil, and real Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 pound medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil, plus small leaves for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and ensure your shrimp and herbs are fresh for the best flavor.
2. In a large nonstick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken stock, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then add the rinsed jasmine rice. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer undisturbed until tender, about 9 to 10 minutes.
6. Arrange the shrimp in an even layer over the cooked rice. Drizzle with lemon juice and dot with the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Cover and continue cooking over medium heat until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque, about 5 to 6 minutes.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra color and nutrition, stir in peas or your favorite vegetables. In summer, add chopped fresh tomatoes at the last minute for a juicy twist. For a Thai-inspired variation, replace cheese with coconut milk and season with cayenne, lemongrass, and turmeric.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 482
• Total Fat: 21g (27% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (59% DV)
• Cholesterol: 195mg (65% DV)
• Sodium: 1520mg (66% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 49g (18% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 6g (21% DV)
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 27g (53% DV)
• Vitamin C: 102mg (113% DV)
• Calcium: 243mg (19% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (15% DV)
• Potassium: 647mg (14% DV)

The Story Behind One-Pan Shrimp and Rice

The one-pan shrimp and rice recipe has roots in both coastal American cuisine and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Seafood paired with rice has long been a staple in regions where fresh shrimp is abundant, allowing cooks to create flavorful, satisfying meals without complex preparation. This particular style, which emphasizes simplicity and a single-pan cooking method, likely evolved from home kitchens seeking quick weeknight dinners that still feel special. Combining aromatic ingredients like garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs with rice and shrimp creates a dish that balances richness and brightness, a hallmark of classic comfort food with gourmet flair.

Regional Variations

While this recipe is considered American in its current form, its variations can be found in Southern coastal regions, particularly in Louisiana, where shrimp boils and jambalaya inspired layered flavors. In Mediterranean coastal countries, such as Spain and Italy, similar one-pan dishes often use saffron, olive oil, and fresh parsley, offering a lighter profile. Depending on the region, ingredients such as Parmesan cheese, white wine, or local stocks are incorporated to highlight regional tastes. For instance, in the southern United States, Old Bay seasoning or a dash of cayenne is often added for extra heat and depth.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional paella or jambalaya, which often include a mix of meats, shellfish, and vegetables, one-pan shrimp and rice focuses on the delicate flavor of shrimp complemented by herbed rice and subtle acidity from lemon. Its uniqueness comes from the method: the rice cooks in a flavorful liquid, while the shrimp are layered on top to steam gently, maintaining juiciness. This differs from fried rice variations, where shrimp is typically sauted first and mixed in, or risotto, which requires continuous stirring to release starches and create a creamy texture.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is versatile and appears both in casual and formal dining contexts. It is commonly served as a quick weeknight dinner due to its minimal preparation, but also shines at dinner parties where a simple yet elegant presentation is desired. Restaurants specializing in seafood or coastal cuisine might serve it alongside a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a light wine pairing. Lemon wedges and fresh basil leaves enhance the visual appeal and flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for family meals or special occasions.

Interesting Facts

• Using a single pan reduces cleanup and helps the flavors meld together more naturally, which is why this dish has become popular among home cooks.
• Rinsing jasmine rice before cooking removes excess starch, preventing the dish from becoming overly sticky and allowing each grain to remain fluffy.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, making it a popular choice in warmer months or when paired with summer vegetables.
• Some modern variations incorporate ingredients like coconut milk, turmeric, or lemongrass for a Thai-inspired twist, showing the recipes adaptability across cuisines.
• Though simple, this recipe highlights the importance of ingredient quality: fresh shrimp and high-quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.

FAQ about One-Pan Shrimp And Rice Recipe

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