Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus Easy Dinner Recipe

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Are you ready to whip up a quick and tasty dinner? This Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus recipe is a breeze, taking just 20 minutes to cook. Packed with bright flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. I’ll walk you through the steps to make this dish easy and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  2. Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and garlic brings a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the shrimp and asparagus.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
  4. Versatile: Feel free to swap out the asparagus for your favorite vegetable or add in some pasta for a heartier dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Shrimp: Use 1 lb (450g) of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined.
  • Asparagus: Trim the bunch and cut it into 2-inch pieces.
  • Garlic: You need 4 cloves of garlic. Mince them finely for the best flavor.

Seasonings and Extras

  • Olive oil and butter: Use 1 tablespoon each of olive oil and unsalted butter. This gives rich flavor.
  • Lemon: Use the zest and juice of 1 lemon. It adds a bright taste.
  • Optional ingredients: You can add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh parsley, chopped, is great for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Skillet

First, grab a large skillet. Place it on the stove and turn the heat to medium. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let them heat until they melt and start to sizzle. This mix gives your dish a rich flavor.

Next, add four minced garlic cloves to the skillet. SautΓ© the garlic for about one minute. You want it to smell great, but don’t let it brown. If garlic burns, it turns bitter. Keep an eye on it and stir often.

Cooking the Shrimp

Now, turn the heat up to medium-high. Add one pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they start turning pink. Do not overcook them. They should be juicy and tender.

Adding Asparagus and Finishing Touches

After the shrimp are looking good, it’s time to add the asparagus. Toss in a bunch of trimmed and cut asparagus pieces. Stir everything together well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. The shrimp should be fully cooked, and the asparagus should be tender-crisp.

Now, reduce the heat to low. Zest and juice one lemon and add both to the skillet. This adds a fresh, zesty flavor. Toss everything well to mix the flavors. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Your Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus is almost done! Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve it hot and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely finish. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Tender Shrimp

To keep shrimp tender, cook them quickly. Overcooking makes shrimp tough. Here are some key points to remember:

  • Cook Time: Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat.
  • Color Change: Look for shrimp to turn pink and opaque.
  • Shape: Curling shrimp means they are done.

Perfectly cooked shrimp are juicy and full of flavor.

Perfecting Asparagus Texture

Asparagus should be tender but still crisp. Here’s how to achieve that:

  • Cooking Time: Cook asparagus for 3-5 minutes with the shrimp.
  • Visual Check: Look for bright green color to know it’s done.
  • Bite Test: It should snap easily when you bite it.

These steps ensure asparagus adds a nice crunch to your dish.

Flavor Enhancements

To make this meal even better, consider adding extra flavors:

  • Seasoning: Try adding herbs like thyme or oregano for a twist.
  • Heat: If you like spice, add more red pepper flakes.
  • Sides: Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

These tips will help you create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Pro Tips

  1. Freshness Matters: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and pat them dry before cooking.
  2. Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent a rubbery texture.
  3. Perfectly Cooked Asparagus: For tender-crisp asparagus, add it to the skillet after the shrimp have started to turn pink. This ensures both ingredients are cooked perfectly.
  4. Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth after adding the asparagus, letting it reduce slightly before adding the lemon.

Variations

Alternative Vegetables

You can switch up the veggies in this dish. Other vegetables that pair well with shrimp include snap peas, bell peppers, and zucchini. These veggies add color and crunch. They also soak up the lemon and garlic flavors.

If you want to swap asparagus, try green beans or broccoli. Both cook quickly and taste great with shrimp. You can even mix different vegetables for a tasty medley.

Adjusting Flavor Profiles

To spice things up, you can use different seasonings. Try adding paprika, cumin, or even curry powder. Each will give the dish a unique taste.

Using different citrus fruits can also change the flavor. Instead of lemon, use lime or orange. Each brings a fresh twist to the shrimp and veggies.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need a gluten-free version, this recipe is already safe. Just check all your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

For a dairy-free option, skip the butter. Use more olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

If you want a low-carb meal, just focus on the shrimp and veggies. You can also serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This change keeps it light and healthy.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let your Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. They prevent air from getting in. If you store it properly, it can last for up to three days in the fridge.

Reheating Instructions

The best way to reheat shrimp and asparagus is on the stove. Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or butter to the pan. Heat until warm, but do not overcook. This keeps the shrimp tender. You can also use the microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid tough shrimp.

Freezing Options

Yes, you can freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp! First, make sure it cools down. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can. It can be frozen for up to two months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently to enjoy all the flavors.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and asparagus in advance. Peel and devein the shrimp, then store it in the fridge. Trim and cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces. Keep it in a sealed bag. You can also mince the garlic ahead and store it in an airtight container. When you are ready to cook, just heat the oil and butter, then add everything. This will save time and make cooking easier.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain it well to remove excess water. Using frozen shrimp can be very convenient and still tasty when cooked right.

What side dishes go well with Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus?

Some great sides include:

  • Quinoa or rice
  • Garlic bread
  • A fresh green salad
  • Roasted potatoes

For quick recipes:

  • Garlic Bread: Spread butter and minced garlic on bread. Toast in the oven until golden.
  • Fresh Salad: Toss mixed greens with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

These sides pair well and make a complete meal. Enjoy your dinner!

This blog post covers all you need for making Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and essential tips. You learned how to prepare shrimp and asparagus for the best taste. Remember to use olive oil, butter, and lemon for added flavor. Don’t skip the extras that enhance the dish.

Try out variations for personal preferences or dietary needs. Your meal can be a hit with simple adjustments. Enjoy your cooking and impress with this tasty dis

- Shrimp: Use 1 lb (450g) of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. - Asparagus: Trim the bunch and cut it into 2-inch pieces. - Garlic: You need 4 cloves of garlic. Mince them finely for the best flavor. - Olive oil and butter: Use 1 tablespoon each of olive oil and unsalted butter. This gives rich flavor. - Lemon: Use the zest and juice of 1 lemon. It adds a bright taste. - Optional ingredients: You can add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh parsley, chopped, is great for garnish. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, grab a large skillet. Place it on the stove and turn the heat to medium. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let them heat until they melt and start to sizzle. This mix gives your dish a rich flavor. Next, add four minced garlic cloves to the skillet. SautΓ© the garlic for about one minute. You want it to smell great, but don’t let it brown. If garlic burns, it turns bitter. Keep an eye on it and stir often. Now, turn the heat up to medium-high. Add one pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they start turning pink. Do not overcook them. They should be juicy and tender. After the shrimp are looking good, it’s time to add the asparagus. Toss in a bunch of trimmed and cut asparagus pieces. Stir everything together well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. The shrimp should be fully cooked, and the asparagus should be tender-crisp. Now, reduce the heat to low. Zest and juice one lemon and add both to the skillet. This adds a fresh, zesty flavor. Toss everything well to mix the flavors. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Your Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus is almost done! Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve it hot and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely finish. Enjoy your meal! To keep shrimp tender, cook them quickly. Overcooking makes shrimp tough. Here are some key points to remember: - Cook Time: Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat. - Color Change: Look for shrimp to turn pink and opaque. - Shape: Curling shrimp means they are done. Perfectly cooked shrimp are juicy and full of flavor. Asparagus should be tender but still crisp. Here’s how to achieve that: - Cooking Time: Cook asparagus for 3-5 minutes with the shrimp. - Visual Check: Look for bright green color to know it’s done. - Bite Test: It should snap easily when you bite it. These steps ensure asparagus adds a nice crunch to your dish. To make this meal even better, consider adding extra flavors: - Seasoning: Try adding herbs like thyme or oregano for a twist. - Heat: If you like spice, add more red pepper flakes. - Sides: Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. These tips will help you create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Pro Tips Freshness Matters: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and pat them dry before cooking. Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent a rubbery texture. Perfectly Cooked Asparagus: For tender-crisp asparagus, add it to the skillet after the shrimp have started to turn pink. This ensures both ingredients are cooked perfectly. Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth after adding the asparagus, letting it reduce slightly before adding the lemon. {{image_2}} You can switch up the veggies in this dish. Other vegetables that pair well with shrimp include snap peas, bell peppers, and zucchini. These veggies add color and crunch. They also soak up the lemon and garlic flavors. If you want to swap asparagus, try green beans or broccoli. Both cook quickly and taste great with shrimp. You can even mix different vegetables for a tasty medley. To spice things up, you can use different seasonings. Try adding paprika, cumin, or even curry powder. Each will give the dish a unique taste. Using different citrus fruits can also change the flavor. Instead of lemon, use lime or orange. Each brings a fresh twist to the shrimp and veggies. If you need a gluten-free version, this recipe is already safe. Just check all your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, skip the butter. Use more olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. If you want a low-carb meal, just focus on the shrimp and veggies. You can also serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This change keeps it light and healthy. To store leftovers, let your Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. They prevent air from getting in. If you store it properly, it can last for up to three days in the fridge. The best way to reheat shrimp and asparagus is on the stove. Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or butter to the pan. Heat until warm, but do not overcook. This keeps the shrimp tender. You can also use the microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid tough shrimp. Yes, you can freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp! First, make sure it cools down. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can. It can be frozen for up to two months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently to enjoy all the flavors. You can prep the shrimp and asparagus in advance. Peel and devein the shrimp, then store it in the fridge. Trim and cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces. Keep it in a sealed bag. You can also mince the garlic ahead and store it in an airtight container. When you are ready to cook, just heat the oil and butter, then add everything. This will save time and make cooking easier. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain it well to remove excess water. Using frozen shrimp can be very convenient and still tasty when cooked right. Some great sides include: - Quinoa or rice - Garlic bread - A fresh green salad - Roasted potatoes For quick recipes: - Garlic Bread: Spread butter and minced garlic on bread. Toast in the oven until golden. - Fresh Salad: Toss mixed greens with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. These sides pair well and make a complete meal. Enjoy your dinner! This blog post covers all you need for making Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and essential tips. You learned how to prepare shrimp and asparagus for the best taste. Remember to use olive oil, butter, and lemon for added flavor. Don’t skip the extras that enhance the dish. Try out variations for personal preferences or dietary needs. Your meal can be a hit with simple adjustments. Enjoy your cooking and impress with this tasty dish!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus

A delicious and quick dish featuring shrimp and asparagus in a lemon garlic sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
Β Β 

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 lemon zest and juice
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
Β 

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and sizzling.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sautΓ© for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
  • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp start to turn pink.
  • Add the asparagus to the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp are fully cooked and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
  • Reduce heat to low, then add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, tossing well to combine all the flavors.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Keyword asparagus, garlic, lemon, quick meal, shrimp

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