Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant entertaining. With tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce, this one-pan meal comes together quickly and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• One pan = minimal cleanup
• Healthy and low-carb
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
• Bright, fresh flavors perfect for spring or summer
• Protein-packed and veggie-rich
• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights
• Customizable with different veggies or grains
• Light yet satisfying
• Great served alone or over rice, pasta, or quinoa

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh asparagus (trimmed and cut into pieces)
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice and zest
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes, until crisp-tender. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. Return asparagus to the skillet, and add lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Toss everything together and cook for another 1–2 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Serve over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal
• Add cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach for extra vegetables
• Use lime juice and cilantro for a different citrus-herb profile
• Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken if preferred
• Add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor
• Stir in a bit of butter at the end for a richer sauce

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Not recommended for freezing, as shrimp can become rubbery when thawed and reheated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—1 to 2 minutes per side is usually enough.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.

What’s the best way to trim asparagus?

Snap off the woody ends by bending each spear—it’ll naturally break at the right point.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead for faster cooking.

What kind of shrimp should I buy?

Use large or extra-large peeled and deveined shrimp for best results.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes—adjust to your taste.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best, but ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

What sides go well with this dish?

Try rice, couscous, quinoa, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly simple dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a light, elegant dinner option, this one-pan wonder hits the mark. Fresh, fast, and full of zesty charm—it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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