1-First step: prep everything before cooking Start by rinsing the broccoli and cutting it into medium florets. Try to keep the pieces close in size so they cook at the same speed. If you bought whole shrimp, peel and devein them now, then pat them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear better and do not water down the sauce. Measure the olive oil, butter, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, vegetable stock, Sriracha, and lemon juice so they are ready to go.

2-Second step: cook the broccoli first Place a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When the butter melts, add the broccoli and season it with salt and pepper. Sauté for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring often, until the broccoli is crisp-tender. You want it bright green with a little bite left, not soft and mushy. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

3-Third step: sear the shrimp Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil to the same skillet. Place the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side without moving them too much. This helps them pick up a little color. The shrimp should start turning pink around the edges before you add the garlic and spices.

4-Fourth step: build the garlic butter sauce Add the minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder to the shrimp. Stir well so the shrimp gets coated in the seasonings. Flip the shrimp and cook for 1 more minute. Then pour in the vegetable stock and Sriracha. Stir gently and let the sauce reduce for about 1 minute. It should smell rich and garlicky, with a little heat and a light sheen from the oil and butter. If you like extra spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes now.

5-Fifth step: return the broccoli and finish the dish Push the shrimp to one side of the skillet and add the broccoli back in. Toss everything together so the florets get coated in the sauce. Squeeze the juice of 1/2 lemon over the top, then let the dish cook for 1 to 2 more minutes so everything heats through. The lemon cuts through the richness and gives the Garlic Butter Shrimp With Broccoli a fresh finish.

6-Final step: garnish and serve Remove the pan from the heat. Spoon the shrimp and broccoli onto plates or into a serving bowl. Finish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, plus lemon slices and red crushed chili pepper if you want a little more color and heat. Serve immediately while the shrimp is juicy and the broccoli still has a crisp bite.