Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minute Recipe) Recipe
This quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. With sautéed shrimp and tender-crisp asparagus in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, it’s a light, fresh, and satisfying meal ready in just 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 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)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 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
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
- Trim the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus stalks and cut the remaining pieces into approximately 2-inch lengths for optimal bite-sized texture.
- Cook the Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned, infusing the oil.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Cook the Asparagus: Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender-crisp yet still vibrant green.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter if using. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors and melt the butter smoothly.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired for a subtle heat. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using fresh lemon juice and zest brightens the dish with a natural citrus flavor.
- Butter is optional but adds richness to balance the acidity from the lemon.
- Red pepper flakes are optional for those who enjoy a hint of spice.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as it can become rubbery.
- The asparagus can be swapped with green beans or broccoli for variation.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, asparagus recipe, healthy shrimp dinner, quick shrimp recipe, sautéed shrimp, easy weeknight meal, low fat dinner
