Delicious and Nutritious Alfredo Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe

Ingredients

• Diced bacon slice
• Broccoli florets, chopped into half-inch pieces
• Freshly squeezed juice of a quarter of a lemon
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Butter (1 tablespoon)
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons)
• Low-fat whipped cream cheese (4 tablespoons)
• 2% milk (1 cup)
• Chicken broth (2 cups)
• Parmesan cheese, shredded (1 cup, divided)
• Italian cheese blend, shredded (1/2 cup)
• Plain 2% Greek yogurt (7-ounce container)
• Raw medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails off (3/4 pound)
• Garlic powder, to taste (1 teaspoon)
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley sprigs (6)

Step 1

In a large frying pan, sizzle the bacon over medium-high heat until it starts to crisp up, which should take around 6 minutes. Once it's partially cooked, lower the heat to medium and introduce the vibrant green broccoli to the sizzling pan. Let it sauté until it's tender yet still has a delightful crunch, for about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer this flavorful combo to a bowl lined with paper towels to soak up any excess grease. Once done, discard the paper towels and give the broccoli and bacon a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick.

Step 2

Next, in a deep saucepan, heat up a mix of olive oil and butter until it starts to bubble gently over medium heat. Introduce flour into the bubbling concoction to create a golden roux, ensuring you whisk continuously for about 3 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking all the while until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Lower the heat, incorporate the cream cheese, and whisk until you achieve a lump-free consistency. Add in the chicken broth, crank up the heat to medium, and let it simmer until it thickens, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 3

Now, toss in a generous amount of Parmesan cheese along with Italian cheese, stirring until they meld into the creamy sauce. For a tangy twist, mix in some Greek yogurt. Introduce the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they turn a vibrant pink on the outside and the flesh is opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season the dish with a sprinkle of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 4

Once the mixture is ready, take it off the heat and gently fold in the broccoli-bacon medley. Finish off this delightful dish by dusting the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.