If you’re looking for a bright, fresh, and downright irresistible weeknight dinner, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It perfectly balances zesty lemon with aromatic garlic, tender shrimp, and crisp asparagus, all coming together in a buttery white wine sauce that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re short on time or just crave something packed with flavor and color, this dish delivers a vibrant punch that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays an essential role, from the richness of butter to the tanginess of lemon and the delightful crunch of asparagus. These ingredients wonderfully complement each other to create a dish that is as flavorful as it is healthful.
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons add a creamy, rich base without overpowering other flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon brings a gentle heat to awaken your taste buds, adjustable to your spice preference.
- Garlic cloves: 4 large, finely minced for that intoxicating aroma and savory depth.
- Dry white wine: ¼ cup adds a subtle acidity and complexity to the sauce.
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons for the bright, zesty freshness that defines the dish.
- Fresh lemon zest: ½ teaspoon intensifies the citrus flavor without adding extra acidity.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or more) to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Fresh ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (or more) to add a mild, peppery spice.
- Asparagus: 1 pound, chopped into 1-inch pieces for a perfect tender-crisp texture.
- Fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp: 1 pound, patted dry to ensure a good sear.
- Fresh basil: ½ cup, finely chopped to add a fragrant, herbal note at the finish.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Step 1: Melt and Brown the Butter
Begin by heating 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Let it melt fully and watch closely until it just starts to brown. This nutty aroma signals the perfect base for your sauce and adds a deeper flavor layer to the dish.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic and Heat
Next, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and the finely minced garlic cloves. Sauté them together for about one minute until the garlic releases its fragrant, mouthwatering scent. This quick step flavors the butter with garlicky spice that will pervade the entire recipe.
Step 3: Add Wine and Lemon Elements
Pour in ¼ cup of dry white wine to deglaze the pan, stirring gently as the mixture simmers. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let these ingredients cook together for about two minutes so the sauce begins to thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Toss in the Asparagus
Add the chopped asparagus to the pan next. Cook while stirring occasionally for about two minutes until the asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp. You want that lovely crunch to balance the tender shrimp that’s coming next.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp to Perfection
Finally, stir in the cleaned, patted dry shrimp. Cook everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. This step locks in juiciness, while the shrimp soak up all those vibrant lemon garlic flavors for a truly delicious meal.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped basil right before serving adds a pop of herbal freshness that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. You might also add a few thin lemon slices for a pretty, appetizing presentation and an extra citrusy surprise.
Side Dishes
Serve this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe alongside buttery garlic bread or creamy risotto for a comforting meal. Alternatively, steamed jasmine rice or a light quinoa salad can make great healthy accompaniments that soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, arrange the shrimp and asparagus over a bed of linguine or zucchini noodles, drizzling extra pan sauce on top. You can also serve it family-style in a cast iron skillet for a rustic touch that keeps everyone dipping in for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers of your Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, making it a great candidate for next-day lunches or quick dinners when time is tight.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate texture of shrimp and asparagus, so freezing is not recommended. If you do freeze it, be aware shrimp can become rubbery, and asparagus tends to lose its crispness upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat just until heated through to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce’s silky texture without drying out the shrimp or veggies.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking to get a nice sear and prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.
What type of white wine works best in this recipe?
Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for their crisp acidity and light fruitiness that perfectly complement lemon and garlic flavors.
Can I substitute the asparagus with another vegetable?
Yes, you can swap asparagus with green beans, broccoli florets, or snap peas for a similar crunch and vibrant color. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe spicy?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your white wine and other ingredients are verified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is a shining example of how a handful of fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s fast, fun, and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus dish cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of red pepper and brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest. This easy-to-make sauté combines tender shrimp and crisp asparagus for a quick, delicious meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Seafood and Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp, patted dry
- 1 pound asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
Seasonings and Sauces
- 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)
- ½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat the butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until it is completely melted and just starting to brown, creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic and red pepper: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes and 4 finely minced garlic cloves to the pan. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in ¼ cup dry white wine, stirring to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Let it cook for approximately 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Cook asparagus: Add the chopped asparagus pieces into the pan, stirring occasionally, and cook for 2 minutes. This will partially soften the asparagus while keeping some crunch.
- Cook shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Add basil and serve: Remove the pan from heat and fold in ½ cup of finely chopped fresh basil for a burst of fresh herbal flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
- Frozen shrimp should be fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess water in the pan.
- Use dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for best flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute white wine with chicken broth or water.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
