Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

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Bursting with zesty citrus, savory garlic, and bright green asparagus, Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is the kind of weeknight hero dish you’ll want on regular rotation. Picture plump, juicy shrimp mingling with crisp-tender asparagus in a glossy lemon-garlic sauce, all ready in twenty minutes flat. Whether you’re searching for a quick main course to impress guests or just craving a light, elegant meal, Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus delivers big on flavor without fuss—making it a surefire favorite for busy nights or special occasions alike.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a long shopping list to get restaurant-worthy results. These simple, fresh ingredients each play a key role in building the dish’s luscious, layered flavors and vibrant color. Quality matters here, so choose the freshest seafood and brightest asparagus for the best results!

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose big, juicy shrimp for tender, flavorful bites every time.
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces: Fresh asparagus adds beautiful color and a delightfully crisp texture that stands up to quick sautéing.
3 tablespoons olive oil: A good olive oil gives this dish richness and helps everything caramelize just right in the pan.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fragrant garlic is the backbone, infusing the oil (and every bite) with irresistible flavor.
1 lemon (zested and juiced): Both zest and juice bring brightness, tang, and a lovely aroma that tie the whole dish together.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch turns up the heat for those who like a little kick with their shrimp.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Season every layer to make the flavors shine.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkle over the finished dish for a boost of color and a fresh, herbal finish.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Step 1: Sauté the Asparagus

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the asparagus pieces. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re just crisp-tender and still bright green. Remove them from the skillet, and set them aside. This step ensures the asparagus keeps its snap and doesn’t overcook once you add it back in later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Return the skillet to the stove, add the remaining olive oil, and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—keep a close watch, as garlic can burn quickly. This simple step infuses the oil with a deep, savory aroma that brings the whole dish together, laying the groundwork for the zesty sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp into your fragrant garlic oil, spacing them out so they sear, rather than steam. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you love a touch of spice. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them—they cook fast!

Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Asparagus

Now it’s time to bring the star flavors together. Return the sautéed asparagus to the pan, then add the lemon zest and juice. Toss everything together for 1 to 2 more minutes, letting the bright citrusy notes marry with the garlicky oil and the sweetness of the shrimp. The asparagus should heat through, and the shrimp will soak up every last bit of lemon garlic sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

As the final touch, remove Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus from the heat and shower the dish with fresh, chopped parsley. This little green flourish livens up the flavors and adds a beautiful, fresh finish. Serve immediately and bask in the herby, lemony aroma—you’re about to enjoy an incredibly satisfying meal!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Garnishes

A flourish of fresh parsley right before serving brings lovely color and a pop of herby flavor. For extra brightness, sprinkle on a few extra gratings of lemon zest or a pinch of flaky sea salt. If you’re feeling fancy, a few thin lemon slices tucked around the platter look stunning and underscore the bright, tangy vibes in every bite.

Side Dishes

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus shines alongside a mound of fluffy white rice, nutty quinoa, or even your favorite pasta—any one of these soaks up that incredible lemon-garlic sauce for a perfect main-course pairing. For a low-carb spin, serve alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. No matter what you choose, you’ll end up with a meal that feels indulgent, but is honestly so fresh and light.

Creative Ways to Present

This dish is just as lovely served family-style on a big platter as it is artfully plated. Try arranging the Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus on crostini for a fun appetizer, tossing it with warm pasta for a full-on Mediterranean feast, or even folding it into a wrap with baby greens for a fantastic lunch. However you present it, those cheerful colors and punchy flavors will always stand out.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, cool them quickly and transfer to an airtight container. Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. The veggies and shrimp will continue to soak up the flavor, making them almost better the next day—perfect for meal prepping or lunchboxes!

Freezing

While shrimp freeze beautifully, asparagus tends to soften after thawing, which can alter the dish’s texture. If you do want to freeze, store the shrimp and asparagus separately in freezer-safe bags for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and be gentle when reheating so the veggies stay as crisp as possible.

Reheating

To keep shrimpy bites tender and asparagus snappy, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through. A splash of fresh lemon juice or olive oil before serving brings back the glossy finish and zesty punch of the original. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, just thaw them under cold running water and pat them dry very well before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture in your skillet so your Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus stays beautifully caramelized and flavorful.

What can I substitute for asparagus?

If asparagus isn’t in season, snap peas, green beans, or even broccolini make lovely stand-ins. These veggies all hold up well to quick sautéing and bring a similar crunch and color to the dish.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if you want it to be! The red pepper flakes are completely optional. You can bump up the amount for a touch more heat, or leave them out entirely for a mellow, kid-friendly version.

Can I make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus dairy-free or gluten-free?

Great news—this recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free! It fits beautifully into a variety of diets, so you can serve it to almost anyone with confidence. For a completely grain-free meal, just choose a side like cauliflower rice or salad.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

Keep an eye on color: when the shrimp turn pink and opaque on both sides, they’re ready. Shrimp cook incredibly fast, so it’s best to err on the side of slightly undercooked than risk toughening them. The total cooking time is usually just a few minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a lively, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s fast enough for weeknights—and dazzling enough for guests—Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus has you covered. It’s a true celebration of simple ingredients and vibrant flavors. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new all-time favorite in your kitchen!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and easy-to-make recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus that is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and zesty lemon come together in a dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the asparagus:

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

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Instructions

Cook the asparagus: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the shrimp: Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Combine and finish: Return the asparagus to the skillet, add lemon zest and juice, and toss everything to combine. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat through. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.