If you are looking for a fast and healthy dinner that does not feel boring, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus has saved me more times than I can count. It is bright, fresh, and ready in just 20 minutes, which is perfect for those nights when I open the fridge and feel totally uninspired.
This lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus recipe checks all my boxes. It is low carb, packed with protein, and made in one skillet. Even better, it feels a little fancy without any extra work.
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I usually make this on busy weeknights, especially when I want something light but still filling. The lemon and garlic combo smells amazing while it cooks, and the shrimp stays tender every single time.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
This dish is all about simple ingredients and quick cooking. Shrimp cooks fast, asparagus stays crisp, and the lemon garlic sauce ties everything together without being heavy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Ready in 20 minutes from start to finish
- One skillet and easy cleanup
- Naturally low carb and gluten free
- Great for meal prep or dinner for one
- Easy to customize with spices or veggies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite sized pieces
Flavor Builders
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter, optional
Seasoning and Garnish
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper. This step helps the shrimp cook evenly and keeps the texture just right.
Step 2: Trim The Asparagus
Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus. Cut the stalks into about 2 inch pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.
Step 3: Cook The Garlic
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it does not burn.
Step 4: Sauté The Shrimp
Increase the heat to medium high. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Cook The Asparagus
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Step 6: Combine And Finish
Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter if using. Toss everything together and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors come together.
Notes And Variations
- Add sliced mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables
- Swap butter for more olive oil to keep it dairy free
- Use lime instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Double the recipe for easy meal prep
FAQs
Yes. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Extra moisture can prevent good browning.
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose C shape. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
This recipe is best fresh, but leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
📖 Recipe
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this low-carb recipe combines tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. It's versatile, nutrient-packed, and easily customizable to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice, zest, and butter (if using). Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. You can swap asparagus for broccoli or green beans. For extra lemon flavor, add a few lemon slices while sautéing.
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Final Thoughts
This lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus recipe is one of those meals I come back to again and again. It is fast, fresh, and never fails when I need dinner on the table quickly. If you try it, let me know how you served it. I always love hearing your twists on simple recipes like this.
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