20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious weeknight meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein. Whipping up this dish is a breeze, thanks to its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow method. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some veggies into your dinner routine while satisfying your cravings for takeout. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. The combination of tender shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a dish that bursts with flavor. The use of lo mein noodles adds a delightful chewiness that perfectly complements the crispy broccoli and juicy shrimp. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a snap!
The Essentials
- 8 oz. package lo mein noodles – Found in the ethnic foods section of your grocery store, these noodles are the star of the dish.
- Juice of 1 large lime – Adds a zesty brightness that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar – Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce – Provides a salty, umami flavor that is essential for stir-fry dishes.
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha hot sauce – Introduces a spicy kick that can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
- 2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Essential for flavor and a touch of nuttiness.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – For an extra layer of heat.
- 2 large eggs – Lightly beaten, these add protein and texture.
- 1/2 pound medium shrimp – Peeled and deveined, they’re the main protein in this dish.
- 2 cups frozen broccoli florets – Convenient and packed with nutrients, no thawing required!
- 1 cup frozen red bell pepper strips – Adds color and sweetness, also straight from the freezer.
- 4 cloves garlic – Minced for a flavorful base.
- Salt – To taste, but be cautious as soy sauce is already quite salty.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Large skillet or wok – Ideal for stir-frying, ensuring even cooking.
- Large pot – For boiling the lo mein noodles.
- Measuring spoons and cups – Essential for accuracy in your ingredients.
- Spatula or tongs – For stirring and tossing ingredients together.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping garlic and preparing any fresh ingredients.
20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein Made Stepwise
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, light brown sugar, soy sauce, Sriracha, and fresh grated ginger. Set this sauce mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to heat up.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs
Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the hot skillet and scramble them until just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 6: Add Shrimp and Vegetables
Add the medium shrimp, frozen broccoli florets, and frozen red bell pepper strips to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the vegetables are heated through.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the cooked lo mein noodles and the prepared sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the skillet, and gently mix everything together. Drizzle with the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil and season with salt if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein!
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
- For a warm weather twist, try adding fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- In cooler months, you can swap out broccoli for bok choy or add mushrooms for a heartier dish.
- To make it a more filling meal, toss in extra protein like chicken or tofu.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Steer Clear of These
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they can become rubbery if left in the pan for too long.
- Avoid using low-sodium soy sauce as it may lack the depth of flavor required for this dish.
- Skip thawing the frozen vegetables; adding them directly to the pan helps retain their texture and nutrients.
- Be cautious with salt; the sauce already contains a good amount of sodium.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This dish is perfect for meal prep! If you have leftovers, follow these guidelines:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: You can freeze the lo mein for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheat: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional soy sauce to prevent sticking.
Popular Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Sauté them until they are just tender before adding the shrimp.
What if I don’t have lo mein noodles?
No worries! You can substitute with spaghetti, udon, or even rice noodles if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times based on the type of noodle you use.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure that the lo mein noodles are gluten-free as well.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the shrimp and add tofu or more vegetables. The flavors will still be delicious with the sauce!
One Pan, More Ideas
- Easy Stir Fry Recipe – A quick and versatile dinner option.
- Vegetable Fried Rice – A classic takeout favorite made at home.
- 15-Minute Peanut Noodle Salad – A cold noodle dish that’s perfect for summer.
- How to Make a Basic Stir Fry – Learn the fundamentals of stir-frying.
Final Thoughts
This 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein is the epitome of a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it up for friends, it’s sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delightful dinner in no time!
20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, light brown sugar, soy sauce, Sriracha, and fresh grated ginger. Set this sauce mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to heat up.
- Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the hot skillet and scramble them until just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the medium shrimp, frozen broccoli florets, and frozen red bell pepper strips to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the vegetables are heated through.
- Add the cooked lo mein noodles and the prepared sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through.
- Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the skillet, and gently mix everything together. Drizzle with the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil and season with salt if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein!
Notes
- For a fresh twist, add herbs like basil or cilantro.
- In colder months, swap broccoli for bok choy or mushrooms.
- To make this dish heartier, include extra protein like chicken or tofu.
