Description
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. The shrimp is sautéed with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and a hint of red pepper flakes, complemented by tender asparagus. Ready in just 20 minutes, this light yet satisfying meal brings together bright citrusy notes with savory butter and fresh basil for a delightful seafood entree.
Ingredients
Butter Sauce
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon salt (more as needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (more as needed)
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound fresh or frozen uncooked shrimp, patted dry
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat Butter: Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until fully melted and just beginning to brown, adding depth of flavor.
- Sauté Spices and Garlic: Add crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, careful not to burn.
- Simmer with Wine and Lemon: Pour in the dry white wine and stir, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Cook Asparagus: Add chopped asparagus to the pan, cooking and stirring occasionally for 2 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add Shrimp and Finish Cooking: Add the shrimp to the pan and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the chopped fresh basil toward the end to infuse flavor.
- Season and Serve: Remove from heat, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper or lemon juice as desired. Serve warm immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for best flavor; if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
- Dry white wine can be substituted with chicken broth if preferred.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with parsley or oregano for a different herbal note.
- Serve this dish over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
