Description
A quick and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring sautéed asparagus and shrimp, finished with lemon and garlic for a light and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bunch Fresh asparagus spears (Look for vibrant, firm spears.)
- 1 pound Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (Thaw if frozen and pat dry.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil or avocado oil (For sautéing.)
- 3 cloves Garlic, finely chopped or grated (Use fresh garlic for best flavor.)
- 1 whole Fresh lemon, zested and juiced (Add zest before juice for brightness.)
- to taste Salt and black pepper (Adjust seasoning as desired.)
- 1 tablespoon Butter (optional) (For finishing for a richer flavor.)
- to taste Red pepper flakes (optional) (For added heat.)
- to taste Grated Parmesan (optional) (For a cheesy finish.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus by snapping each spear or cutting off the end uniformly.
- Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw in a bowl of cold water for approximately 10 minutes and pat dry.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a swirl of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the asparagus for about 4 to 6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until bright green and slightly browned.
- Push the asparagus to one side, add more oil if necessary, then add garlic to the empty side of the pan and stir for 20-30 seconds until fragrant.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the center of the pan in a single layer, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, sprinkle lemon zest over the top, and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
- Finish with a small pat of butter if desired for a glossy finish.
Serving
- Serve as is, or toss with cooked pasta or serve over rice for a heartier meal.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean