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The key to making garlic butter shrimp and asparagus is all about fresh and simple ingredients. Here's what you need: - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon lemon zest - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish These ingredients work together to create a burst of flavor. The shrimp bring a sweet and briny taste. Asparagus adds a fresh crunch. Garlic and butter make everything rich and savory. Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, giving it a refreshing zing. You can adjust the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Using fresh parsley as a garnish adds a pop of color and extra flavor. It's all about balance and harmony in this dish. This simple list makes it easy for you to gather what you need. For the full instructions, check out the Full Recipe. How to prepare the shrimp Start by drying the shrimp with a paper towel. This helps them cook better. Then, season them lightly with salt and pepper. This step adds great flavor. Cooking the shrimp Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter bubbles, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Now, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes. When they turn pink, flip them over. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully done. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Sautéing the asparagus In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Then, toss in the asparagus pieces. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes. You want the asparagus to be tender but still crisp. Adding lemon zest and juice Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Now, it’s time to elevate the flavors! Add the lemon zest and juice. This will brighten the dish and add a refreshing touch. Combining flavors Gently toss everything together. Cook for one more minute to blend the flavors. The shrimp and asparagus will soak up all that buttery, garlicky goodness. Adjusting seasoning Now, taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be just right! Plating and garnishing Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve this beautiful dish right away for the best taste. Enjoy your garlic butter shrimp and asparagus delight! For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. To ensure your shrimp are cooked perfectly, start with fresh shrimp. Look for large shrimp that are bright and firm. Pat them dry to help them sear well. Cook them in a hot pan with melted butter. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes on one side. When they turn pink, flip them. Cook for another minute to finish. Shrimp cook fast, so watch them closely. For sautéing asparagus, trim the ends and cut them into 2-inch pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Sauté the asparagus for 4-5 minutes. They should be bright green and tender but still crisp. This keeps the flavor fresh and the texture great. If you want an alternative for shrimp, try scallops or chicken. Both give a nice taste and pair well with garlic butter. For a plant-based option, use tofu or chickpeas. These options keep the dish satisfying and delicious. If asparagus is not available, use green beans or broccoli. Both vegetables cook similarly and offer a good crunch. You can also try zucchini or bell peppers for a different flavor profile. They add a nice color and taste. To boost the dish's flavor, add spices like paprika or cumin. These spices enhance the garlic and lemon well. You can also include fresh herbs, like thyme or basil. They add a fresh note that brightens the dish. For optional toppings, consider grated Parmesan cheese or toasted nuts. They add texture and richness. Fresh lemon slices on top can also brighten the dish. Adding these extras makes your meal more delightful. For the full recipe, be sure to check the details above. {{image_2}} Gluten-free options This dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added sauces or seasonings are gluten-free. You can enjoy this meal without worry. Low-carb adaptations Garlic butter shrimp and asparagus are already low in carbs. You can skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer less spice. The dish remains light and healthy. Ingredients to add in summer In summer, add cherry tomatoes or zucchini. They will bring fresh flavors and colors. You can toss them in with the asparagus for a vibrant dish. Fall-inspired additions For fall, consider adding butternut squash. It adds a warm, sweet flavor. You can roast it first and mix it in at the end. One-pan method You can make this dish in one pan for easy cleanup. Just cook the shrimp and asparagus together. Start with the shrimp, then add asparagus right after. Using frozen shrimp or asparagus Frozen shrimp and asparagus work well here. Just thaw them first and pat dry. This saves you time, and the dish stays tasty and fresh. For the full recipe, check out the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus Delight. To keep your garlic butter shrimp and asparagus fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge right away. This helps keep the flavors intact. Leftovers will last about 2-3 days. After that, the shrimp may not taste as good. You can freeze cooked shrimp and asparagus for later use. First, make sure they cool down. Then, pack them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can keep them frozen for up to 3 months. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight. To keep your dish tasty when reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a bit of butter for moisture. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. This method helps retain flavor and texture. Avoid the microwave, as it can make shrimp rubbery. For the best result, reheat until warm, not hot. Enjoy your delicious meal again! How long do you cook shrimp for? You cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side. Once they turn pink, flip them. Cook the other side for 1-2 minutes. Shrimp cook fast, so watch them closely. Overcooking makes them tough. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. You can run them under cold water for a few minutes. Pat them dry before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and taste fresh. Why did my shrimp turn rubbery? Shrimp turn rubbery when overcooked. Make sure to time your cooking well. If you see them turning pink, check them right away. Cook just until they are opaque. What to do if asparagus is overcooked? If asparagus is overcooked, it can become mushy. To fix this, try cutting it into smaller pieces. You can toss it with some fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of salt. This can help enhance the flavor. What to pair with garlic butter shrimp and asparagus? You can pair this dish with rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. A fresh salad also complements it well. If you want some crunch, add toasted bread or garlic bread on the side. Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes, garlic butter shrimp and asparagus are great for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently to keep flavors fresh. For the full recipe, click here. This blog post covered a delicious recipe for garlic butter shrimp and asparagus. You learned about the ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips. We've also explored variations to suit different diets and preferences. Remember, cooking can be fun and simple. When you try this dish, you can mix and match. Use frozen shrimp or adjust spices to your taste. Enjoy your meal and share it with others—it’s sure to impress!

18. Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus

Indulge in the flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus Delight! This quick and easy recipe combines succulent shrimp and crisp asparagus cooked in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it's ready in just 20 minutes! Discover how to make this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by preparing the shrimp. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.

    In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.

      Once the butter is bubbling, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

        Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

          In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the asparagus. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still crisp.

            Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, adding in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss everything together gently and cook for an additional minute to combine the flavors.

              Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

                Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4