If you’re looking for a dish that is vibrant, fresh, and comforting all at once, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is going to become your new favorite weeknight hero. It’s a perfect balance of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender asparagus tossed with succulent shrimp, creating a light but satisfying meal that feels fancy without any fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, you get a dish that bursts with bright flavors and looks gorgeous on any plate—ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a key role—whether it’s adding richness, a hint of spice, or freshness that wakes up your taste buds. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Provides a luscious base for sautéing, adding creamy richness that carries all the flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon): Just enough heat to make your palate tingle without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic cloves (4, finely minced): Fresh garlic amps up the aroma and delivers that classic garlicky punch we all love.
- Dry white wine (¼ cup): Adds acidity and depth, helping create a subtle sauce that brightens the shrimp and asparagus.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings a zesty freshness that keeps every bite lively and balanced.
- Fresh lemon zest (½ teaspoon): Intensifies the lemony flavor with aromatic oils straight from the peel.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors—feel free to adjust to your liking.
- Fresh ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Offers a gentle peppery note that complements the dish perfectly.
- Asparagus (1 pound, chopped into 1-inch pieces): Adds crunch, vibrant color, and a springtime freshness that makes this dish special.
- Fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp (1 pound, patted dry): The star protein—make sure they’re dry to ensure a nice sear and tender texture.
- Fresh basil (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds a fragrant herbal note that rounds out the flavors beautifully at the end.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Step 1: Melt the butter
Start by heating 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Allow it to melt fully and just begin to brown slightly, which adds a wonderful nutty undertone to your dish. This buttery base is where all the magic starts.
Step 2: Add garlic and spices
Next, toss in the finely minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté these for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing that signature scent that makes your kitchen feel so inviting. The pepper flakes add a subtle, warming spice that wakes up each bite.
Step 3: Deglaze with wine
Pour in ¼ cup of dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer before stirring in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, which will create a bright, tangy sauce that ties everything together.
Step 4: Cook the asparagus
Add the chopped asparagus to your pan, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 2 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp, maintaining that satisfying snap and vibrant green color. This step is crucial for balancing the textures between the shrimp and vegetable.
Step 5: Add shrimp
Finally, stir in 1 pound of fresh or frozen (but thawed and patted dry) uncooked shrimp. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the shrimp to turn fully pink and opaque while soaking up all those delicious flavors. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the finished dish with plenty of freshly chopped basil. This bright herb not only looks eye-catching but also adds a fresh, mildly sweet aroma that perfectly complements the lemon and garlic. For an extra touch, a few lemon slices on top make the presentation pop and double down on the citrus charm.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Light, fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes soak up the garlicky lemon sauce, while crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every flavorful drop. For a low-carb option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve the shrimp and asparagus over a bed of angel hair pasta or drizzle with a little extra olive oil and grated Parmesan to elevate the dish’s elegance. You can also pack this into a warm pita or wrap with some greens for a zesty lunch wrap that feels fresh and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors hold up well for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy a second round without any loss of that lemony garlic punch.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe, be aware that the asparagus texture can soften after thawing. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwaving on low power in short bursts works well too.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe?
Yes! Frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents steaming.
Is it necessary to use white wine?
While white wine adds depth and acidity, you can substitute it with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Can I omit the crushed red pepper flakes?
Absolutely. The crushed red pepper adds a gentle heat, but you can leave it out or adjust the amount depending on your spice preference without compromising the dish’s overall flavor.
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked, usually within 5 to 7 minutes depending on size. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp become tough and rubbery.
Can I use other vegetables besides asparagus?
Yes! Vegetables like green beans, snap peas, or zucchini would be great substitutes and cook quickly in this dish’s buttery sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is the kind of dish that wins over hearts quickly with its dazzling mix of flavors and effortless preparation. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, it delivers sunshine on a plate that feels special without the stress. I really hope you give it a try and discover why it’s become such a beloved favorite in my kitchen!
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Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe that combines tender shrimp and crisp asparagus sautéed in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce with a touch of spice and fresh herbs. Perfect for a healthy, low-calorie weeknight dinner ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or more to taste)
- 1 pound asparagus, chopped into 1” pieces
- 1 pound fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp, patted dry
- ½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
- Melt the butter: Heat the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until it’s fully melted and just beginning to brown to develop a nutty flavor.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the dry white wine and stir, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, cooking for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and meld the flavors.
- Cook the asparagus: Add the chopped asparagus to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Add shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and is fully cooked through. Finish by stirring in the fresh chopped basil just before serving.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry for best results.
- White wine can be substituted with chicken broth if preferred.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Pair with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
