Shrimp & Asparagus in Lemon Butter Sauce

Looking for a delicious, healthy, and quick dinner idea? Shrimp & Asparagus in Lemon Butter Sauce is the perfect recipe for you! This dish combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus in a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce that’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers both freshness and satisfaction in no time.
Ingredients:
-
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
-
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by prepping your shrimp and asparagus. Peel and devein the shrimp, then trim and cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces. Set both aside.
2. 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, or until they’re tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the asparagus from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Shrimp and Asparagus:
Once the shrimp is cooked, return the asparagus to the skillet. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine. Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the shrimp and asparagus immediately, either on its own or over a bed of rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight.
-
Healthy & Light: Packed with protein from the shrimp and fiber from the asparagus, it’s a light yet filling meal.
-
Flavorsome: The lemon butter sauce adds a tangy richness that complements the shrimp and asparagus beautifully, making each bite burst with fresh flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp & Asparagus
-
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so make sure not to overcook it. Once it turns pink and opaque, it’s ready.
-
Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a more creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce after adding the lemon juice.
-
Serve with Sides: For a complete meal, serve this dish with a side of roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Shrimp & Asparagus in Lemon Butter Sauce is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s fast, easy, and undeniably delicious—what more could you ask for?