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Easy One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

one-pan lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus - featured image

A quick and easy one-pan recipe featuring tender shrimp and crisp asparagus tossed in a bright lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a light and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Small handful fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the asparagus, cutting into 2-inch pieces. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and set aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and swirl to coat the surface until foamy and nutty smelling.
  4. Add asparagus pieces in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to get a slight char, then toss occasionally until tender-crisp and bright green, about 3 more minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Push asparagus to one side of the pan and add shrimp in a single layer. Let sear without moving for 1-2 minutes until edges turn pink and opaque. Flip shrimp and cook another 1-2 minutes until fully pink and curled. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Pour lemon garlic sauce over shrimp and asparagus. Toss gently to coat evenly. Cook together for another minute to meld flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure proper searing. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor. Watch shrimp closely to prevent overcooking. If pan dries out, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, asparagus, lemon garlic, one-pan, quick dinner, easy recipe, healthy, weeknight meal