If you’re looking for a light, yet satisfying dish that’s both full of flavor and quick to make, look no further than Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus. This recipe is the perfect blend of tender shrimp, fresh asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce that comes together in just 20 minutes. Whether you're looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or something impressive for a special occasion, this dish fits the bill. It's low in carbs, packed with protein, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors.
Perfectly garlicky, citrusy, and with a slight char from the sautéed asparagus, this dish is ideal for pairing with a side of rice, quinoa, or a light salad. It's a flavorful and nutritious choice for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, gourmet meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes for a hassle-free dinner.
✔ Healthy – Packed with protein from the shrimp and fiber from the asparagus, making it a well-balanced meal.
✔ Bright and Zesty – The lemon and garlic bring a burst of fresh flavor that complements the shrimp and asparagus perfectly.
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – A great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet.
✔ Versatile – Serve it with your favorite sides or enjoy it on its own for a lighter meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Asparagus
- Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Trim the asparagus, cutting off the tough ends and slicing it into 2-inch pieces.
- Mince the garlic and zest the lemon, then cut the lemon in half and juice it.
Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until it begins to soften and gets a slight char. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Season the asparagus with salt and pepper to taste, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat it over medium-high.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- Add the butter (if using), lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir well to combine and create a silky sauce.
- Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet and toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot on its own or alongside your favorite low-carb side like cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
🔥 Add a little more zest – For an even more vibrant flavor, add extra lemon zest for a more intense citrus kick.
🔥 Grill it! – If you prefer grilling, you can grill the shrimp and asparagus on a hot grill for a smoky flavor.
🔥 Make it creamy – Stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
🔥 Make it spicy – For a spicier version, try adding chopped jalapeños or sriracha to the garlic mixture.
🔥 Meal prep – This dish makes a great meal prep option! Just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
🥗 Simple Salad – A light green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens is the perfect companion to this fresh dish.
🍚 Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb alternative to rice, try serving with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
🍞 Low-Carb Bread – A slice of keto-friendly bread will help you soak up the flavorful lemon-garlic sauce.
🥔 Roasted Potatoes – For a heartier side, serve with roasted baby potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the shrimp and asparagus in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and then quickly cook everything together when you're ready to eat.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?
Absolutely! You can swap out the asparagus for broccoli, zucchini, or green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for any vegetables that need longer to cook.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus
✨ Fresh and Zesty – The combination of lemon and garlic creates a light yet flavorful sauce that’s perfect for shrimp and veggies.
✨ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect option for busy weeknights.
✨ Healthy and Low-Carb – Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish fits well into a low-carb or keto diet.
✨ Versatile – It pairs well with a variety of sides, making it an adaptable choice for any meal.
Leave a Reply