Description
This quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp sautéed with fresh garlic and bright lemon zest are combined with crisp asparagus, creating a delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes. The dish is lightly seasoned and finished with fresh parsley, offering a vibrant and satisfying option that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings & Garnishes
- 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
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season the shrimp evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Trim the Asparagus: Remove the tough, woody ends of the asparagus by snapping them off. Then cut the asparagus stalks into 2-inch pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
- Cook the Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and retains some crunch.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional butter. Toss all ingredients together and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to blend the flavors and warm through.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Serve the dish immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, omit the butter or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- You can substitute fresh asparagus with frozen, but fresh is preferred for best texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness or omit entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
- Serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a more filling meal.
- Ensure shrimp is cooked just until opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
