Lemon Garlic Shrimp Asparagus

This zesty lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish has become my go-to solution for last-minute dinner parties.

I discovered this recipe during a busy holiday season when I needed something elegant but effortless. The combination of tender shrimp and crisp asparagus has since become my signature dish whenever I want to impress guests without stressing myself out.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined: Choose wild-caught when possible for the best flavor
• 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces: Look for bright green stalks with tight tips
• 4 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic provides significantly more flavor than pre-minced
• 1 lemon juice and zest: The zest contains essential oils that intensify the citrus flavor
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for best results
• 1 tablespoon butter optional: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt: I prefer kosher salt for more controlled seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground adds more complex flavor
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional: Adds a gentle heat that complements the seafood
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water to remove any residue. Pat them completely dry with paper towels which helps them brown better when cooking. Season evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides. Properly dried shrimp will sear rather than steam in the pan.

Trim the Asparagus:

Hold each asparagus spear at both ends and bend until it snaps naturally. This removes the woody portion that can be tough to eat. Cut the remaining tender stalks into 2-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to eat with the shrimp.

Cook the Garlic:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Stir constantly to prevent burning which would impart bitterness.

Sauté the Shrimp:

Increase the heat to medium-high which helps achieve a light sear. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque with slightly golden edges. Remove the perfectly cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.

Cook the Asparagus:

In the same skillet retaining all the flavorful residue add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the cut asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes stirring occasionally. The asparagus should become bright green and tender-crisp still maintaining some structure when pierced with a fork.

Combine and Finish:

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet containing the asparagus. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice lemon zest and butter if using. Gently toss everything together while the butter melts creating a light sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes just enough to reheat the shrimp and allow all flavors to combine beautifully.

Serve:

Transfer the completed dish to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will have everyone reaching for seconds.

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The real secret to this dish is in the quality of your shrimp. I once made this with freshly caught gulf shrimp while visiting family in Florida, and the flavor was so exceptional that I now seek out the freshest seafood possible. The difference in taste is remarkable and worth the extra effort to find quality ingredients.

Storage Tips

This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat just until heated through. Avoid microwaving as this can make the shrimp tough and rubbery. Add a splash of water and a small pat of butter when reheating to refresh the sauce.

Easy Variations

This recipe welcomes many delicious adaptations based on what you have available. Replace asparagus with green beans, broccoli, or zucchini for equally delicious results. For a heartier meal, serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or regular pasta. You can also add cherry tomatoes during the final cooking stage for bursts of sweet acidity that complement the lemon beautifully.

Perfect Pairings

This light and flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. If you want to add a starch, consider garlic bread, angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs, or a simple risotto.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prepare shrimp for cooking?

Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and remove the shells if not already peeled. Ensure they are deveined before seasoning.

→ How can I trim asparagus properly?

Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus where they naturally break. Then cut the stalks into bite-sized pieces, typically around 2 inches long.

→ What can I use as a butter substitute?

If you prefer a non-dairy alternative, you can use vegan butter, extra olive oil, or avocado oil for a similar richness.

→ How do I keep shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

→ What can I pair with this dish?

This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad for a balanced, flavorful meal.