Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a wonderfully simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Fresh shrimp and tender asparagus come together with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic. It’s quick to whip up, making it a great option for family dinners or when you want something special without a lot of fuss. You’ll love how delicious and satisfying it is!

Why You Will Love This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

This recipe is both tasty and easy. The bright lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet shrimp and crisp asparagus. It comes together in just one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze. With ingredients you probably have on hand, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Plus, your whole family will love it!

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Making this delightful dish is straightforward. You start by sautéing the garlic and asparagus, and then add the shrimp to cook until tender. The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it all comes together. You’ll have a flavorful meal on the table in no time!

What You Need

Here’s what you need to make this dish:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Push the asparagus to the side of the skillet and add shrimp.
Season with salt and pepper, then pour in lemon juice and zest.
Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until pink and opaque.
Stir everything together and cook for another minute.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

This dish is delightful on its own or served over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta. Pair it with a simple side salad for extra freshness. It’s also amazing with crusty bread to soak up any leftover lemony goodness. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!

How to Store Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Let any leftovers cool down before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep well for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.

Recipe Tips

Take care to not overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
Adjust the garlic according to your taste. If you love it, feel free to add more!
Use lemon juice and zest for a brighter flavor.
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just heat them through!
Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.

Variations & Swaps

Swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein.
Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you enjoy spice.
Substitute garlic withshallots for a milder flavor, or use garlic powder if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and asparagus in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine. This helps retain the best textures.

Can I freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Place it in an airtight container and store it for up to a month. Make sure it cools down completely before freezing to keep the flavors fresh.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for a few minutes, or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or another drizzle of olive oil to keep it from drying out.

What can I substitute for shrimp?
Chicken or firm tofu are great swaps if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since they may take longer to cook than shrimp.

What are some good sides to serve with this dish?
A light green salad or steamed rice pairs beautifully. You could also serve it with roasted potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.