One-Pan Garlic Shrimp Asparagus

This one-pan garlic shrimp and asparagus is perfect for those busy nights when you want something fresh and packed with flavor without a mountain of dishes to wash. Juicy shrimp and crisp asparagus sizzle together with garlic and lemon in under twenty minutes for a light meal that always tastes like spring.

I remember making this for the first time when asparagus was on sale at the farmers market and the freshness took the whole dish to another level. It is now my go-to when I need something that feels restaurant fancy but cooks up on a tired Tuesday.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined, look for plump shrimp with a firm texture, the fresher the better
• Asparagus: trimmed and cut, pick spears that are bright green and snap crisply when bent
• Olive oil: use extra virgin for silky texture and richer flavor
• Garlic: minced, fresh cloves make a big difference
• Salt: accentuates all the other tastes, use kosher salt if possible
• Black pepper: adds subtle heat, freshly ground gives the best aroma
• Crushed red pepper flakes: a little optional kick for those who love spice
• Lemon zest and juice: brings vibrancy and balances the richness, choose a lemon that feels heavy for its size
• Fresh parsley: chopped for a clean finish, go for deep green flat leaf parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Vegetables and Shrimp:

Start by rinsing your shrimp and patting them dry. Trim and cut the asparagus into short pieces to help them cook evenly.

Cook the Asparagus:

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium high heat. Add the asparagus and stir them frequently for about four minutes until they turn bright green and just start to become tender. Scoop them out onto a plate so they keep their beautiful color and crunch.

Sauté the Garlic:

Add the second tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan and drop in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for half a minute until the garlic smells fragrant; do not let it brown or it may turn bitter.

Cook the Shrimp:

Place the shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle over the salt, black pepper, and those red pepper flakes if you are using them. Cook the shrimp for about two minutes per side; you will see them curl up and turn pink with a firm texture when they are done.

Combine Everything:

Return the cooked asparagus to the pan with the shrimp. Add the zest of a lemon and squeeze in all its juice. Stir well so everything is glossy and coated, then let it heat together for another minute or two.

Finish and Serve:

Take the skillet off the heat and scatter fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve right away for the best texture and taste.

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Whenever I make this recipe the burst of citrusy lemon over the shrimp is my favorite part. It is like a squeeze of sunshine. My family always gathers around as soon as they catch a whiff of the garlicky aroma in the kitchen.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid turning the shrimp rubbery. I do not recommend freezing since the asparagus will lose its crispness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If asparagus is not in season, green beans or snap peas are wonderful alternatives and keep that pretty green color. Small scallops work in place of shrimp for a different texture, or try tossing in a handful of grape tomatoes for a pop of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

I love this alone for a light meal, but it is great over cauliflower rice for extra veggies or fluffy cooked quinoa for something a bit heartier. A simple green salad and crusty bread on the side turn it into a complete dinner fit for company.

Cultural Context

While this specific skillet dish is very American in style, the flavors borrow from the Mediterranean with bright lemon, olive oil, and parsley. Dishes like this are common in regions where seafood and fresh vegetables are staples and they are prized for their speed and simplicity.

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Common Questions

→ Can I substitute asparagus with another vegetable?

Yes, green beans or snap peas work well instead of asparagus for a similar crunch and flavor.

→ How do I know when shrimp are cooked properly?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when done, usually needing 2 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking for best texture.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Try it over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or a simple mixed greens salad to round out the meal.

→ Is it possible to add extra flavors?

Add a splash of white wine when sautéing garlic, or sprinkle with chili flakes for extra heat.

→ Is this meal suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check packaging to avoid cross-contamination.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

For best taste, serve immediately. Leftovers keep well in the fridge, but shrimp are best enjoyed fresh.