Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining? This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus dish comes together in under 30 minutes and is packed with flavor. With tender shrimp and crisp asparagus finished with a bright lemony sauce, this dish is a delightful and healthy choice for any seafood lover. Let’s dive into this easy and scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients List
For the Dish
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 4 servings
This flavorful dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Asparagus
- Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Trim the asparagus ends and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender but still crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet with the shrimp.
- Add the lemon zest and juice, toss everything together, and cook for an additional minute to heat through. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced meal choice!
Healthy Variations & Substitutes
- Vegetable Varieties: Feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for more colors and nutrients.
- Shrimp Alternatives: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for different flavors.
- Grain Base: Serve over quinoa for a protein boost or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus pairs wonderfully with:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
- Side Salads: Accompany with a light green salad or a Caesar salad for added freshness.
- White Wine: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine for a lovely dinner pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from heat as soon as they are pink and opaque to avoid rubberiness.
- Not Drying the Shrimp: Patting shrimp dry helps ensure they sear instead of steam, leading to better texture.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season your shrimp and veggies well to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Prep Tips
To keep your dish fresh:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave.
- Prep Ahead: You can pre-prepare the lemon garlic sauce and chop vegetables in advance to save time on cooking day.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus dish is a flavorful and healthy meal that’s sure to please family and friends. With bright lemon notes and garlicky goodness, it’s a lovely way to enjoy fresh ingredients and seafood. Try this recipe today for a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner that will brighten your day!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking.
2. What do I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp become overcooked, they will have a rubbery texture. To avoid this, keep an eye on the cooking time and remove them from heat immediately once they turn pink and opaque.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving for a quick meal.
4. What can I substitute for asparagus?
You can substitute asparagus with green beans, broccoli, or snap peas for a different twist.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. You can enjoy it without worry!
Enjoy this delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus dish and savor every flavorful bite!