Indulge in a delightful and flavorful dish with our Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Crisp Asparagus. This recipe combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the fresh, crunchy texture of asparagus, all brought together by a rich, buttery garlic sauce with a hint of zesty lemon. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner, this dish promises to deliver a gourmet experience right from your own kitchen. Not only is it delicious, but it also packs a punch in terms of nutritional benefits, making it a go-to meal for health-conscious food lovers.
Ingredients
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for the final bake.
2. Cook the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Sauté the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the trimmed asparagus and sauté for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them with the asparagus, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Bake: Transfer the shrimp and asparagus mixture to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until everything is thoroughly cooked and flavors have melded.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
Preparation and Cooking Times
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings
Tips
1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and asparagus for the best flavor and texture.
2. Butter and Garlic: Be cautious not to overcook the garlic as it can become bitter if burnt.
3. Asparagus: Ensure the asparagus is not overcooked; it should retain some crunch.
4. Lemon Zest: Adding the lemon zest at the end enhances the citrus flavor without overpowering the dish.
5. Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
Benefits
• High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamins: Asparagus is loaded with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber and folate.
• Antioxidant-Rich: The garlic and lemon provide antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage by free radicals.
• Low-Calorie Meal: This dish is low in calories yet satisfying, making it perfect for weight management.
• Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy weeknights, this meal can be prepared and cooked in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Is there a substitute for asparagus?
You can substitute asparagus with other green vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that all ingredients used, such as butter and spices, are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Crisp Asparagus is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together the best of land and sea. It’s quick to prepare, nutritionally balanced, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender shrimp, crunchy asparagus, and zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, and savor a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
