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Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

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4.3 from 42 reviews

This quick and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe combines tender shrimp and crisp asparagus sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal ready in just 20 minutes.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Seafood and Vegetables

  • 1 pound fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp, patted dry
  • 1 pound asparagus, chopped into 1″ pieces

Seasonings and Aromatics

  • 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (use less if you don’t like spice)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (more to taste)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest

Liquids and Fats

  • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter: Heat butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until completely melted and just starting to brown, which adds a nutty flavor to the sauce.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper: Add crushed red pepper flakes and finely minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add Wine and Flavorings: Pour in the dry white wine and stir. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Cook this sauce for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  4. Cook Asparagus: Add the chopped asparagus pieces to the pan. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes until the asparagus starts to become tender but still crisp.
  5. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan with the asparagus and sauce. Continue to simmer and cook, stirring gently, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Finish with Basil: Stir in the fresh chopped basil. Remove the pan from heat and taste. Adjust seasoning by adding additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
  7. Serve: Serve the lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus warm as a delightful main dish.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for best flavor or thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
  • Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well in this recipe.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
  • Serve with crusty bread, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt