Ingredients and Weight:
- Quinoa: 500g
- Fresh or frozen shrimp: 250g (defrost if frozen)
- Red bell peppers: 1 (medium, diced)
- Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Fresh basil: handful (chopped)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level:
[Level 3] - Moderate. Requires basic cooking skills and attention to detail.
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add diced red bell peppers and minced garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add defrosted shrimp and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and mix well.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil.
- Serve hot, with a side of your choice (e.g., steamed vegetables).
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 4 people)
- Calories: Approx. 400-450 kcal per serving (depending on additional ingredients)
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g (of which saturated fat is about 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g (including fiber)
- Sodium: Depends on salt used during cooking.
Dish Characteristics:
- Creative fusion of American and global flavors.
- Quinoa provides a unique, slightly crunchy texture combined with the tenderness of shrimp.
- Basil adds a fresh herbaceous note to the dish.
- Versatile dish that can be paired with various sides or as a main course with added protein.
User Comments:
- "Love the combination of quinoa and shrimp! This dish is a new favorite." - John Doe, New York, USA.
- "The basil gives it a great fresh flavor that I really enjoy." - Jane Smith, Los Angeles, USA.
- "Easy to make and tastes even better than I expected." - Michael Johnson, Chicago, USA.
- "Great dish for a special occasion or a weekend dinner." - Sarah Williams, San Francisco, USA.
- "Quinoa is such a healthy grain, combined with shrimp for a protein-rich meal." - David Brown, Boston, USA.
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure shrimp is cooked thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference. Start with less salt and add more if needed after tasting.
