Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus in 20 Minutes đđŚđż
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a **quick seafood dish** that combines vibrant flavors with minimal effort, look no further than this **lemon garlic shrimp** with asparagus recipe. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering juicy shrimp infused with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, paired beautifully with tender asparagus. Not only is it nutritious and flavorful, but it also comes together in just 20 minutesâideal for a fast yet satisfying meal. For more delicious and easy-to-make seafood ideas, check out our healthy air fryer salmon delight.
2. Ingredients Needed for Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: lemon slices for serving
For a complete kitchen setup, consider using the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer which makes cooking seafood quick and easy.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if needed. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and set both aside.
SautĂŠing the Garlic
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Cooking the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are opaque and pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Asparagus
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Place the asparagus in the pan, seasoning lightly with salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
Flavoring and Combining
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together to coat evenly and allow the flavors to meld for 1-2 minutes.
Serving the Dish
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot, ideally with a side of rice or crusty bread for a complete meal. For more ideas on quick seafood, check out our sticky garlic chicken noodles.
4. Storage Tips for Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
Leftover shrimp and asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out. Avoid freezing as seafood and cooked vegetables are best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
5. Serving Suggestions
This **lemon garlic shrimp** with asparagus pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, rice, or whole wheat pasta. For a healthy boost, add a sprinkle of cheese or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing salad. For other quick dinner options, see our chicken fajita burrito bowl.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, simply thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator or quickly defrost in cold water. Ensure they are completely dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What substitutions can I make?
If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch. For a low-carb version, skip the bread or rice accompaniment. For vegan options, substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh and use lemon juice instead of lemon zest.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process takes approximately 20 minutes, making it a perfect **quick seafood dish** for busy weeknights.
Can I bake this dish instead of stovetop?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp and asparagus at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Toss with lemon and garlic before baking for flavor infusion.
7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Ideal for quick and even cooking of seafood and vegetables.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures easy cleanup and durable cookware for all your kitchen needs.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Perfect for grilling or air frying ingredients with less oil.
8. Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just enough to stay juicy and tender.
- Do not overcook the asparagus; aim for a slight crunch.
9. Conclusion
This **zesty lemon garlic shrimp with asparagus in 20 minutes** is a delightful, healthy, and flavorful **shrimp recipe** perfect for any busy evening. Its fresh citrus notes combined with savory garlic make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy a gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen. For more quick and tasty seafood ideas, explore our healthy air fryer salmon delight. Happy cooking!
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Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus in 20 Minutes
This lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus dish is a perfect quick-cook recipe that combines bright citrus flavors with tender shrimp and crisp asparagus, ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add asparagus.
- Cook until asparagus is tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute shrimp with scallops for a different seafood flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Healthy, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 250 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg