20-Minute Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Asparagus Skillet (Print Version)
Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a healthy, flavorful weeknight meal ready in just 20 minutes. Simple ingredients, vibrant taste, and easy cleanup.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Diabetic-Friendly
# Ingredients:
→ Main Sauté Stars
01 -
1 1/2 lbs large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled, deveined, tails on or off
02 -
1 1/2 lbs asparagus spears, tough ends trimmed
→ Bright & Bold Aromatics
03 -
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 large lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp juice)
06 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Savory Seasoning & Richness
07 -
1 tsp kosher salt
08 -
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 -
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
10 -
1 tbsp unsalted butter
→ Fresh Finish
11 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
12 -
Lemon wedges, for serving (garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Prepare 1.5 lbs large shrimp by peeling and deveining, leaving tails on or off as preferred. Trim the tough ends from 1.5 lbs asparagus spears. Mince 4 cloves garlic, zest and juice 1 large lemon (yielding about 2 tbsp juice), and chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley. This initial prep is key for your Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minute Meal).
02 -
In a medium bowl, toss the prepped 1.5 lbs large shrimp with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and half of the lemon zest. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated for maximum flavor. Set aside while you cook the vegetables.
03 -
Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed 1.5 lbs asparagus spears and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove asparagus from the pan and set aside on a plate.
04 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil to the same skillet. Add the minced 4 cloves garlic and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
05 -
Increase heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned 1.5 lbs large shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for the best Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minute Meal).
06 -
Pour in 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth and 2 tbsp lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in 1 tbsp unsalted butter and the remaining lemon zest until melted. Return the cooked asparagus to the pan and toss to combine everything.
07 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1/4 cup fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve your delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minute Meal) immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
# Notes:
01 -
For perfectly tender shrimp, avoid overcooking. Shrimp cook very quickly, turning pink and opaque in just 2-3 minutes total. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
02 -
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
Feel free to substitute asparagus with other quick-cooking vegetables like green beans, broccoli florets, or snap peas. Chicken breast or scallops can also be used instead of shrimp.
04 -
This meal is fantastic on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a light pasta like angel hair to soak up the delicious sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
large skillet
02 -
tongs
03 -
cutting board
04 -
chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 346 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
Protein: 42 g