Craving a dish that’s light, flavorful, and quick to make? Look no further! Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights, and it’s ready in just 20 minutes. The combination of tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a tangy lemon garlic sauce is a flavor-packed delight that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Plus, it’s low-carb and keto-friendly—an ideal choice for anyone watching their carbs.
This dish can easily go from an easy family dinner to a show-stopping recipe for guests. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Asparagus: 1 bunch, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Lemon: Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing
- Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra richness)
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Parsley: Freshly chopped, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Use ghee or coconut oil in place of butter.
- Extra Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus:
This recipe is quick and simple, so you’ll be enjoying your meal in no time.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
- 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.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Turn up 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.
- Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s tender-crisp.
- Combine and Finish: 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 allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes or a light salad.
- Bread: Enjoy with crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the zesty citrus and garlic.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To avoid overcooking the shrimp, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it.
- Repurpose: Leftovers are perfect for topping pasta, salads, or even in tacos for a tasty lunch or dinner!
Variations and Customizations:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in some cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and color.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the butter and add extra olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
- Pasta Option: For a heartier meal, toss everything with your favorite pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Frozen shrimp works perfectly—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that any ingredients, such as butter, are certified gluten-free if necessary. - What can I use in place of asparagus?
If you’re not a fan of asparagus, you can swap it for green beans, zucchini, or broccoli for a similar texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright citrusy flavors, savory garlic, and tender shrimp, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a busy weeknight, or impressing guests, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit.
Enjoy this healthy, flavorful meal in just 20 minutes and savor the delicious combination of shrimp, asparagus, and zesty lemon garlic sauce!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 220 per serving
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ 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 with salt and black pepper.
- Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
- 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.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Turn up 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.
- Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine and Finish: 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.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus!