Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a bright, flavorful dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal. With tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and zesty lemon, it’s both healthy and delicious. Perfect for a simple dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt and black pepper.
2. Step 2: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Step 4: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Step 5: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
6. Step 6: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter if using. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to combine flavors thoroughly.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish if you like a little heat. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use frozen shrimp, thawed thoroughly, if fresh shrimp aren’t available—just be sure to pat them dry well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• For extra richness, add a splash of white wine when cooking the asparagus and shrimp.
• Swap asparagus with green beans or broccoli for a different vegetable twist.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the shrimp tender and asparagus crisp. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent overcooking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting the flavors.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually after about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 142 reviews

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp simmered in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce are paired with crisp-tender asparagus, brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest, and finished with a touch of butter and parsley for a vibrant and satisfying dish.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Other Ingredients

• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
2. Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the tough, woody ends of the asparagus spears and cut the stalks into approximately 2-inch pieces for bite-sized portions.
3. Cook the Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned.
4. Sauté the Shrimp: Increase the skillet’s heat to medium-high and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, then remove and set aside to prevent overcooking.
5. Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender yet still crisp.
6. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional butter. Toss everything gently and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top if you desire some added heat. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• For extra richness, swirl in the optional butter at the end of cooking.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
• Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Ensure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
• Fresh lemon zest adds brightness—avoid pre-packaged dried zest substitutes.

Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, asparagus recipe, quick dinner, healthy shrimp dish, easy stovetop meal