Amazing Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
Introduction
Perfectly tender shrimp and crisp asparagus in a vibrant lemon garlic sauce. This restaurant-quality dish comes together in just 20 minutes and makes any dinner feel special! Whether you're cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this bright and flavorful combination delivers impressive results with minimal effort. The zesty lemon balances beautifully with the savory garlic, while the asparagus adds a fresh crunch that complements the succulent shrimp perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Remove asparagus and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the asparagus to the skillet and add the butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Shrimp Selection: Use large or jumbo shrimp for best results, and make sure they're thoroughly dried before cooking to ensure proper searing.
- Asparagus Prep: Trim the tough woody ends by bending each spear until it snaps naturally at the tender point.
- Timing is Key: Cook asparagus first, then shrimp, as shrimp cook much faster and can become tough if overcooked.
- Lemon Freshness: Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat very dry before cooking.
- Q: How do I know when shrimp are cooked? A: Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, forming a loose "C" shape.
- Q: Can I substitute other vegetables? A: Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini work well as asparagus alternatives.
- Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free when served as written.
- Q: Can I make it ahead of time? A: This dish is best served immediately, but you can prep ingredients in advance.