Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus: Easy One-Pan Dinner

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s a flavorful flashback to my childhood. Nothing brings me back like the sizzle of shrimp in a hot skillet. My nonna used to whip up lemon-garlic seafood delights with a flick of her wooden spoon and a smile that meant “Dinner’s ready!” That nostalgic combo of lemon, garlic, and buttery shrimp is one I’ve brought into my own kitchen, especially when I need something fast and flavorful.

Whether you’re a home cook wrangling dinner between soccer practice and bedtime, a student scraping together a wholesome meal, or simply someone who loves the elegance of seafood without the fuss—this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is for you. It’s low-carb, keto-friendly, gluten-free, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes. Yes, really.

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What You’ll Need

This dish is all about simple, fresh ingredients that come alive with a bit of love and heat.

Essentials:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, but dreamy)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little zing)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Swaps:

• Substitute ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Add in cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for color and variety.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep the shrimp: Rinse and pat dry your shrimp. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Chop the asparagus: Trim the woody ends, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. Sauté asparagus: In the same skillet, toss in the asparagus. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
6. Combine and finish: Return shrimp to the pan, add lemon zest, lemon juice, and butter (if using). Toss everything for another 1–2 minutes.
7. Serve and garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This dish is a chameleon—it pairs well with just about anything!

• Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a light, grain-free meal.
• Craving comfort? Try it with lemon garlic shrimp with pasta.
• Toast up some garlic bread or rolls for dipping into that luscious lemon-garlic sauce.
• Pour yourself a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—thank me later.

Round out the plate with roasted veggie sides with garlic flair, grilled summer vegetables that pair well with seafood, or one of our lemon-infused side dishes for seafood.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to make them shine again:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Repurpose into:
  • A light shrimp taco
  • Tossed with pasta or zoodles
  • A topping for a shrimp salad bowl

Variations and Customizations

Want to switch it up? I’ve got you.

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
• More veggies, more fun: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
• Dairy-free: Skip the butter or use ghee/coconut oil.
• Heartier meal: Toss with penne or linguine for a pasta feast.

If you love Southern-inspired meals, check out our hearty Southern-style shrimp dinners for another weeknight hit.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid soggy shrimp.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just ensure your seasonings and butter are certified gluten-free.

Don’t have asparagus?
Try green beans, zucchini, or even broccoli as alternatives. They’re just as delicious.

How long does it take?
Prep to plate in just 20 minutes—yes, really!

Is it keto-friendly?
You bet! It’s low in carbs, high in protein, and loaded with clean ingredients.

Nutritional Snapshot (per serving):

Metric	Value
Calories	220 kcal
Protein	High
Carbs	Low
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes
Servings	4

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Try this lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus recipe, and let us know—did you add your own twist? Share your creations with us!

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