Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
