Quick Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe for Any Occasion

The aroma of sautéed shrimp mingling with crisp asparagus can transport anyone to a sunny coastal kitchen. This dish dances on the palate with bright flavors that tease your taste buds while offering a delightful crunch. Imagine sitting down to this vibrant plate during a casual dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal; it’s sure to impress

I still remember the first time I made shrimp and asparagus for my friends. It was an impromptu gathering filled with laughter, and as soon as they tasted it, they declared me the “Shrimp Whisperer.” This dish is perfect for those moments when you want to wow your guests without losing your sanity in the kitchen.

One memorable evening, my friend Maria took a bite of this dish and exclaimed she could hear the ocean That’s how good it is

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Shrimp: Use large, fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
• Asparagus: Choose bright green stalks that are firm; avoid wilted ones for best texture.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add immense flavor; I usually use about three cloves minced.
• Olive Oil: A splash of quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness while adding health benefits.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; don’t skimp on this
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning elevates all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): These add a delightful kick if you like things spicy

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water and patting them dry. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut them into 2-inch pieces for even cooking.

Heat Up Your Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add ingredients.

Add Garlic First: Toss in minced garlic first until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn because burnt garlic tastes like regret

Cook Shrimp Until Pink: Add your prepared shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—this means they’re perfectly done

Add Asparagus Next: Toss in your chopped asparagus along with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté everything together for another 3-5 minutes until the asparagus is tender yet still crisp.

Lemon Juice Finish Touch: Finally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving; this brightens up all those wonderful flavors in an instant

Now you have a gorgeous plate of shrimp and asparagus ready to impress yourself or anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing shrimp in olive oil, then add asparagus for the last few minutes of cooking. This method ensures both ingredients are perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Try swapping garlic for shallots or adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Personalize this dish with spices that excite your taste buds

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture and flavor.

Cooking shrimp and asparagus always brings back memories of my first dinner party, where my friends raved about this dish Their smiles made all those hours in the kitchen worth it.

FAQ

What should I serve with shrimp and asparagus?

Pair it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.

How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp turns pink and opaque when fully cooked; avoid overcooking

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Quick Shrimp and Asparagus

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Shrimp and asparagus unite in this quick, vibrant dish, delivering a burst of flavor that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Prepare asparagus by trimming woody ends and cutting into 2-inch pieces.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Add minced garlic; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp in a single layer; cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Stir in asparagus, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; sauté for another 3-5 minutes until asparagus is tender yet crisp.
6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 220mg