Description
This quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe offers a perfect balance of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender shrimp paired with crisp asparagus. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal healthy weeknight dinner that’s both easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
Seasonings and Garnish
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the tough woody ends of the asparagus stalks, then cut them 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 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to preserve its delicate taste.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp, maintaining their bright green color and texture.
- Combine and Finish: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional butter. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Serve: Transfer to plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its freshest.
Notes
- You can substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli for a different vegetable option.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when cooking the asparagus.
- Butter is optional but adds richness to the sauce.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, asparagus recipe, quick shrimp recipe, healthy dinner, 20-minute meals, garlic shrimp, stovetop shrimp, easy shrimp dinner