When I think of quick and delicious meals, Shrimp With Asparagus always comes to mind. This dish is not only a breeze to whip up in just 20 minutes, but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. The combination of succulent shrimp and crisp asparagus creates a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist.
As a passionate home cook, I love how this recipe brings together fresh ingredients that are both healthy and satisfying. With just a handful of simple components, you can create a meal that feels special enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, shrimp is a fantastic source of protein, while asparagus adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals. It’s a win-win!
So, whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick, nutritious dinner, Shrimp With Asparagus is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Shrimp With Asparagus
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First things first, let’s get everything ready. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the shrimp sear nicely in the pan. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Next, grab your bunch of asparagus. Trim the tough ends off and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and makes for a lovely presentation.
Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
Now, let’s bring some heat! In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the asparagus pieces. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. You want them to retain a bit of their snap, so don’t overcook! Once they’re ready, remove the asparagus from the skillet and set them aside. This will keep them vibrant and fresh for the final dish.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This is where the magic begins! Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Once the shrimp are cooked, return the asparagus to the skillet. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring everything together for an additional minute to heat through.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
It’s time to serve up this delicious dish! Transfer the shrimp and asparagus to a serving dish. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and watch as everyone digs in. This Shrimp With Asparagus dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from asparagus, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Great Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley elevates the taste, making every bite a delight.
Versatile: This recipe works well for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Easy Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Tips for Success
To make your Shrimp With Asparagus truly shine, here are some pro tips that I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures:
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and asparagus make a world of difference. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean and asparagus that’s bright green and firm.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp! They cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready to go.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like a bit of heat.
Use a Hot Skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps achieve a nice sear and enhances the flavor.
Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is a classic garnish, try adding fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Meal Prep: If you’re short on time, you can prep the shrimp and asparagus ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning dish that’s sure to impress!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Shrimp With Asparagus, knowing the nutritional values can help you appreciate this dish even more. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 30g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option, making it a great addition to your meal rotation!
FAQ Section
As you prepare to make Shrimp With Asparagus, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers:
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a quicker option.
What can I substitute for asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it out for other vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers would all make great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re tender-crisp.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the shrimp. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While Shrimp With Asparagus is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Just store the shrimp and asparagus separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This way, you can whip it up in no time!
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices. A light salad or some crusty bread also complements the meal nicely, making it a complete dining experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful Shrimp With Asparagus, don’t worry! Proper storage will keep your meal fresh and tasty for another day.
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help maintain the flavors and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet for the best results. Simply heat a little olive oil over medium heat, add the shrimp and asparagus, and warm them through for about 3-4 minutes. This method helps retain the dish’s original texture and flavor.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Just be cautious not to overheat, as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Shrimp With Asparagus even after the first serving!
A quick and tasty dish featuring shrimp and asparagus.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. Trim the ends of the asparagus and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
Cook the asparagus: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet with the shrimp. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Serve: Transfer the shrimp and asparagus to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Enjoy your Shrimp with Asparagus, a delightful and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
