Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli – Weight Watchers Recipe (3 WW Points)

If you’re looking for a delicious yet low-point meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients, Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is the perfect recipe for you! This quick and easy dish features succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a luscious honey garlic butter sauce that is both satisfying and light on your waistline. The best part? It’s only 3 WW points on the Weight Watchers Green, Blue, and Purple plans. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers or simply trying to eat healthier, this dish is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner, providing protein, fiber, and a savory sweetness in every bite.

In this recipe, the shrimp is coated in a flavorful honey garlic butter sauce, while the broccoli is lightly steamed to retain its crunch and nutrients. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and the richness of butter makes this dish irresistible. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also filled with antioxidants, healthy fats, and lean protein. Perfect for anyone seeking a meal that’s light on points but big on flavor.

Ingredients:

  • Shrimp:
    • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Honey Garlic Butter Sauce:
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or a reduced-fat version for fewer points)
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp honey
    • 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
    • 1 tsp lemon juice
    • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
  • Broccoli:
    • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
    • 1/2 tbsp olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Garnishes:
    • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
    • Lemon wedges (optional)

Preparation Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Broccoli: Start by preparing the broccoli. If you’re using fresh broccoli, cut it into florets, ensuring they are bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. In a medium pot, bring a small amount of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and steam them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. Drain any excess water and set the broccoli aside. For an extra bit of flavor, you can toss the steamed broccoli with a touch of olive oil and season it with salt and pepper. This gives it a bit of richness and a mild roasted flavor. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic. Stir in the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
  4. Combine the Shrimp and Sauce: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the honey garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the shrimp in the sauce, ensuring they are fully coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the sauce and become well-flavored.
  5. Serve and Assemble: To serve, plate the steamed broccoli and top it with the honey garlic butter shrimp. Spoon any extra sauce over the top of the shrimp and broccoli for added flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
  6. Enjoy: Your Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is now ready to enjoy! This meal is perfect when paired with a side of quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even on its own for a low-carb, nutrient-dense meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 13g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Sugar: 8g
  • WW Points: 3 Points (Green, Blue, Purple Plans)

Detailed Nutritional Breakdown:

  1. Shrimp: Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood option that is also rich in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. It’s an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle, maintain energy, and support metabolism. Shrimp is also packed with antioxidants that can help fight inflammation in the body. It’s a naturally low-fat food and contains virtually no carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those on a calorie-controlled or low-carb diet.
  2. Honey Garlic Butter Sauce: The honey garlic butter sauce is a flavorful combination of butter, honey, and garlic, which provides a savory-sweet profile to the shrimp. While butter adds richness and flavor, it’s important to use it in moderation to keep the overall dish lower in fat. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the sodium content. The honey adds natural sweetness, which balances the richness of the butter, while the garlic brings a depth of flavor and contains antioxidants beneficial for health. The soy sauce adds a savory umami element, and lemon juice enhances the sauce with a fresh, citrusy note.
  3. Broccoli: Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Additionally, broccoli contains antioxidants and compounds that support immune health and protect the body against oxidative stress. It’s also a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. By steaming the broccoli, you retain most of these valuable nutrients while preserving its crunchy texture.
  4. Olive Oil: Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fats that help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. It also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. By using olive oil in the cooking process, you get the benefits of healthy fats without adding too many extra calories or points.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers:

  1. Low in Points: One of the key highlights of this Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is that it is incredibly low in WW points. At just 3 points for a generous serving, you can enjoy a filling, flavorful meal without spending too many of your daily points. Shrimp and broccoli are both low-calorie, nutrient-packed ingredients, making this dish a smart choice for anyone following the Weight Watchers program.
  2. Lean Protein Source: Shrimp provides a lean protein source that’s perfect for those looking to increase their protein intake while keeping calories and fat in check. Protein helps build muscle, increase satiety, and keep you energized throughout the day. By including shrimp in this recipe, you get the benefits of high-quality protein without the added fat or calories that come with other protein sources like red meat.
  3. Fiber-Rich: Broccoli is not only low in calories but also high in fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps manage blood sugar levels, and promotes a sense of fullness. By combining the broccoli with the shrimp, you create a meal that keeps you full and satisfied for longer periods, reducing the temptation to snack or overeat later.
  4. Healthy Fats: Olive oil and butter are used in moderation to create a balanced meal. Healthy fats are essential for overall health, supporting brain function, hormone regulation, and heart health. Using olive oil in the cooking process and butter in the sauce helps add flavor and texture without overwhelming the dish with unhealthy fats.

Meal Prep and Customization Tips:

  1. Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the shrimp and honey garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store them separately from the broccoli. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the shrimp and sauce and steam the broccoli. This meal keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, making it an ideal option for busy weeks.
  2. Customization: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Swap the shrimp for another lean protein like chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also switch up the vegetables and use green beans, asparagus, or spinach instead of broccoli. To adjust the flavor, you can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, or fresh basil.
  3. Serving Suggestions: While this dish is satisfying on its own, you can pair it with a side of quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a simple salad for a more filling meal. If you’re looking to add more carbs, consider serving the shrimp and broccoli over a bed of brown rice or roasted sweet potatoes for added fiber and nutrients.

Conclusion:

This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and Weight Watchers-friendly points. With lean shrimp, nutrient-rich broccoli, and a deliciously savory sauce, this dish provides all the essential nutrients your body needs while keeping you on track with your health and weight loss goals. At just 3 WW points, it’s a meal you can feel good about, offering a satisfying combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers or just looking for a delicious, healthy meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.