Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is a quick, fresh, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 20 minutes, it combines tender shrimp with crisp asparagus for a bright, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Step 2: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
3. Step 3: 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.
4. Step 4: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Step 5: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
6. Step 6: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, zest, and butter (if using). Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
7. Step 7: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier touch, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
• Swap asparagus with green beans or broccolini if preferred.
• If you like extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor; bottled lemon juice can alter the taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can become rubbery.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming.

What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A simple side salad is also a fresh complement.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 66 reviews

This vibrant Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is a quick and flavorful 20-minute dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp are sautéed with tender asparagus and fragrant garlic, brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest, and optionally enriched with butter for extra richness. It’s a light yet satisfying meal bursting with fresh ingredients and easy to prepare in one skillet.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Vegetables

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasonings and Garnish

• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
2. Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus spears and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
3. 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 and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
4. Sauté the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until they blush pink and become opaque. Remove cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
5. Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp but still bright green.
6. Combine and Finish: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter if using. Toss everything gently together and cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the shrimp through.
7. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an optional sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• You can omit butter for a dairy-free version and simply use olive oil.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
• Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice or pasta for a complete meal.
• Ensure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
• Fresh lemon zest really brightens the dish — use fresh lemons for best results.

Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, asparagus recipes, quick shrimp dinner, healthy shrimp skillet, 20-minute meals