Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus Recipe

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus is a light and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp and tender asparagus in a zesty lemon garlic sauce. This quick and healthy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be served over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients List

For the Dish:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta (optional)

Timing

Preparing Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Clean the Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Trim the Asparagus: Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Asparagus

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté Asparagus: Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Cook Garlic and Shrimp: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Add Asparagus Back: Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet with the shrimp.
2. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the shrimp and asparagus, and add the lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss to Combine: Gently toss everything together to coat in the lemon garlic sauce and heat through for another minute.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta if desired.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220
Protein	25g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	8g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
• Herb Options: Fresh herbs like basil or dill can be used for added freshness.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat or add a splash of hot sauce.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that brings bright flavors to your table. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! You can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook them just before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or pasta, and can also be served with a side salad for a complete meal.

Print