Description
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is a quick, flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp with tender asparagus in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it delivers a bright and savory meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 pound asparagus, chopped into 1” pieces
- 1 pound fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp, patted dry
- ½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: Heat the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until it is fully melted and just starting to brown, which helps develop a rich nutty flavor.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and finely minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without browning.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour the dry white wine into the pan, stirring to loosen any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Cook the sauce for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the Asparagus: Add the chopped asparagus pieces to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 2 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add and Cook the Shrimp: Incorporate the shrimp into the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors at their best.
Notes
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp; if frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Dry white wine can be substituted with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to maintain tenderness.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or enjoy as is for a low-carb meal.
