Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

There’s something endlessly satisfying about a skillet filled with vibrant veggies and succulent seafood, especially when it’s as simple and stunning as Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus. This dish highlights the sweet, briny flavor of shrimp paired with crisp asparagus, all bathed in a bright, zingy lemon-garlic sauce. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this recipe brings effortless elegance and maximum flavor to your table—all in under thirty minutes!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus truly shines when you use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component has a special role: the shrimp provides rich, meaty texture; asparagus adds gorgeous color and crunch; and the zesty lemon-garlic combo ties it all together in a fresh, lively sauce. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

  • Large Shrimp (1 pound): Go for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time and keep the bite juicy and tender.
  • Asparagus (1 bunch): Trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces, asparagus brings a satisfying snap and beautiful color.
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with that irresistible pungency and depth.
  • Lemon Juice and Zest (from 1 lemon): Nothing lifts the flavors quite like a bright burst of lemon—zest for aroma, juice for tang.
  • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For rich, Mediterranean flavor and a silky finish on the veggies and shrimp.
  • Butter (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a hint of creaminess and rounds out the sharpness of the lemon and garlic.
  • Salt (½ teaspoon): Draws out and magnifies every fresh flavor in the pan.
  • Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): A gentle touch of heat that balances the other elements.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Sprinkle for a little kick if you like some heat!
  • Freshly Chopped Parsley (2 tablespoons): For a finishing burst of herbal freshness and color.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse your shrimp with cold water and pat them as dry as possible using paper towels. This extra step really matters—by removing excess moisture, you ensure the shrimp get a lovely, light sear instead of simply steaming. Season them generously with salt and pepper to build a flavor foundation right from the start.

Step 2: Trim the Asparagus

Grab that bunch of asparagus and give each stalk a gentle bend; you’ll notice the woody ends naturally snap off at the perfect spot. Chop the tender parts into bite-sized, two-inch pieces. This makes the asparagus easy to eat and ensures every forkful has just the right balance of veggies to shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for just a minute or two—you want the garlic fragrant and golden, never browned or burnt. The aroma will set the stage for the deliciousness to come.

Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp

Crank up the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the undersides turn delightfully pink. Flip and repeat on the other side. As soon as they’re opaque and curled, scoop the shrimp out and set them aside. Quick cooking keeps them juicy and prevents rubbery seafood.

Step 5: Cook the Asparagus

In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the asparagus and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, until they turn vibrant green and just tender-crisp. This quick cooking keeps them bright and snappy, the perfect companion to the shrimp.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle in the lemon zest, pour over the lemon juice, and add the butter if you’re feeling indulgent. Give everything a gentle toss to coat well, then sauté together for another minute or two. This brings all the flavors together in a glorious, aromatic pan sauce—right where Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus truly shines!

Step 7: Serve

Transfer it all to a serving platter, pile it high, and shower over the freshly chopped parsley. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a subtle heat, and get ready to dig in while it’s perfectly hot and fresh.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a delightful note of brightness. For even more flavor, consider an extra grating of lemon zest or a quick squeeze of juice right at the end. A dusting of red pepper flakes lets your guests customize their perfect bite of Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus.

Side Dishes

There’s incredible versatility here! Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus atop a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or twirl it up with pasta for a heartier meal. Crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every bit of that precious sauce, and a simple green salad makes a wonderfully fresh partner.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, think outside the skillet! Try spooning the shrimp and asparagus into endive leaves for easy handheld bites, or use the mixture as a topper for crostini. You can even toss in some cherry tomatoes or serve over spiralized zucchini for a low-carb, stunningly colorful presentation. However you plate it, Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus will be a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to two days, maintaining the bright flavors and vibrant textures.

Freezing

While shrimp freezes nicely, asparagus can sometimes lose its tender-crisp texture. If you do need to freeze leftovers, pack them in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal tightly. It’s best to consume within a month for optimal flavor, although the asparagus may be a little softer after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, warm Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is possible, but care is needed—go low and slow, as shrimp can become tough if overcooked. A minute at a time, stirring in between, does the trick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw frozen shrimp under cold water and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. Frozen shrimp are often flash-frozen at peak freshness, so they’re a convenient and tasty choice for Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus.

What’s the best way to trim asparagus?

Bend each stalk gently and let it snap naturally where the tough end meets the tender part. This will help you avoid any fibrous bites and keeps all the asparagus in Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus perfectly tender.

Is this recipe spicy?

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus has only a hint of heat from the optional red pepper flakes. If you like things spicy, feel free to up the amount or add a dash of hot sauce. Otherwise, simply skip it for a milder flavor.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Certainly! The butter in Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is optional. Just use a little extra olive oil for a completely dairy-free—and still totally delicious—meal.

What type of skillet works best?

A large, heavy-bottomed nonstick or stainless-steel skillet is perfect for getting a good sear on the shrimp and evenly sautéing the asparagus. Avoid overcrowding so each ingredient cooks perfectly!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bright, beautiful, and bursting with flavor, Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus will not disappoint. It’s a weeknight winner and crowd-pleaser all in one pan. Give it a try—I promise it’ll find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

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Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with vibrant asparagus, garlic, and zesty lemon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

  • Author: admin1
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Sauté
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Asparagus:

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat dry the shrimp, then season with salt and pepper.
  2. Trim the Asparagus: Cut asparagus into pieces after removing woody ends.
  3. Cook the Garlic: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
  4. Sauté the Shrimp: Cook shrimp until pink and opaque, then set aside.
  5. Cook the Asparagus: Sauté asparagus until tender-crisp.
  6. Combine and Finish: Return shrimp to skillet with asparagus, add lemon juice, zest, and butter; cook to meld flavors.
  7. Serve: Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes; serve immediately.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 230mg

Keywords: Lemon Garlic Shrimp, Asparagus Recipe, Seafood Dinner, Quick and Easy

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