Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Simple Recipe

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is simple and packed with flavor. I’ll guide you through each step, from choosing the right shrimp to perfect seasoning. In no time, you’ll impress your family or friends with this delicious dish. Ready to dive in? Let’s cook!

Ingredients

Detailed List of Ingredients

– Shrimp Specifications: Type and Size

– For this recipe, use large shrimp, about 1 lb (450g). Look for shrimp that are peeled and deveined for ease. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen works too. Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.

– Asparagus Preparation: Fresh vs. Frozen

– I prefer fresh asparagus for its crispness and flavor. Use one bunch, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces. If you choose frozen, make sure to thaw it and drain excess water. Fresh gives a better texture and taste.

– Butter Options: Unsalted vs. Salted

– I recommend using unsalted butter for this dish. It lets you control the salt level. You will need 4 tablespoons, divided into two portions. Salted butter can work too, but be cautious with added salt in the final dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients

Cleaning and Seasoning Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. This removes any shell bits. After rinsing, pat them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp well with salt and black pepper. Make sure they are coated evenly for great flavor.

Trimming and Cutting Asparagus

For the asparagus, begin by trimming the tough ends. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces. This size helps them cook evenly and look nice on the plate.

Cooking Process

Sautéing Asparagus to Perfect Texture

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the asparagus pieces. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often. You want them to be bright green and slightly tender, yet still crunchy. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Sautéing Garlic for Maximum Flavor

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt completely. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute. Stir constantly until the garlic smells great but be careful not to burn it.

Cooking Shrimp to Juicy Perfection

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Spread them out in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, gently fold in the lemon zest and lemon juice. This adds a fresh taste that brightens the dish.

Final Assembly

Combining Ingredients in the Skillet

Return the sautéed asparagus to the skillet. Mix everything together gently. Cook for another minute to heat through. This allows the asparagus to soak up the garlic butter.

Adjusting Seasonings for Optimal Taste

Taste the dish and see if it needs more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice. Adjust these to fit your taste. This step helps to enhance the flavors and make every bite delicious.

For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Advice

– Achieving the Perfect Sauté

To get a great sauté, heat your skillet first. Use medium heat and add butter. When the butter bubbles, it’s time to add the asparagus. Stir gently to keep it from burning. Cook for just a few minutes. The asparagus should stay bright green and crunchy.

– Flavor Enhancements: Adding Citrus and Herbs

Fresh lemon juice and zest bring zest to your dish. They brighten flavors, giving a fresh taste. You can also add herbs like parsley or cilantro. These herbs add color and flavor. Just sprinkle them on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

– Pairing with Side Dishes

Garlic butter shrimp and asparagus taste great with rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a light salad. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce. Choose simple sides that won’t overpower the dish.

– Ideal Presentation Tips

For a lovely display, use a large white platter. Arrange the shrimp and asparagus in a colorful way. Drizzle the leftover garlic butter sauce over the top. Add a lemon wedge on the side for a pop of color. This makes your meal look gourmet and inviting.

For the complete dish, check out the [Full Recipe].

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily swap ingredients in this dish. For protein, try chicken or tofu. Both options work well with garlic butter. Chicken gives a nice bite, while tofu adds a soft texture.

For veggies, think about using broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. These choices add color and crunch. Broccoli gives a nice bite, while zucchini cooks quickly. Bell peppers bring sweetness to the dish.

Flavor Modifications

Adjust spice levels to suit your taste. If you like it hot, add more red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, cut back on the flakes. You can also try different herbs for a unique twist.

Basil or thyme can add fresh notes. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. For a zesty kick, consider adding more lemon juice or zest. It brightens the dish nicely.

For the full recipe, refer to the recipe section.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your garlic butter shrimp and asparagus fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the dish in an airtight container. It will stay good for up to 3 days. The shrimp may lose some texture over time, but the flavor remains strong.

If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it. Divide the dish into smaller portions and use freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To avoid freezer burn, make sure to seal the containers well.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to eat leftovers, reheating properly helps keep the flavor and texture. The best way is to use a skillet over medium heat. This method warms the shrimp and asparagus evenly. Stir gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

You can also use a microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between. This way, you ensure everything heats evenly without drying out.

For more details, check out the Full Recipe.

FAQs

Common User Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp or asparagus?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp or asparagus. Just thaw them first before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and keeps the texture nice.

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl into a C shape. If they look gray or feel mushy, they need more time.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus?

I love serving this dish with rice or pasta. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread. These sides soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and asparagus ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. However, I recommend cooking it fresh for the best taste.

Additional Queries

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can cook it in batches and store it in airtight containers. It stays tasty in the fridge for up to three days.

How to make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, avoid using any sauces that contain gluten. Stick to fresh ingredients and focus on the garlic, shrimp, and asparagus. This way, you keep it safe and delicious!

This blog post shared how to make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips. You learned about shrimp types, fresh versus frozen asparagus, and butter choices. The cooking process showed how to sauté perfectly and combine flavors. You discovered variations with proteins and veggies, plus storage tips for leftovers.

Making this dish is easy and fun. Keep experimenting with flavors. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus

Indulge in a delightful Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus dish that’s quick and packed with flavor! This easy recipe combines juicy shrimp with tender asparagus, all bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. In just 20 minutes, you can have a dish that impresses everyone at your table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, discover how to make this amazing meal now! Click to explore the recipe and elevate your cooking today!

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Ingredients

  

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

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

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon lemon zest, freshly grated

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residual shell bits, then pat them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring they are well-coated.

Cook the Asparagus: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, add the asparagus pieces. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is vibrant and begins to soften but still retains a slight crunch. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt completely, then add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, just until the garlic becomes aromatic—be careful not to let it burn, as it can turn bitter.

Add the Shrimp: Introduce the seasoned shrimp into the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked. Gently fold in the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to integrate these fresh flavors.

Combine Everything: Return the sautéed asparagus to the skillet, mixing everything carefully to combine well. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional minute, ensuring the asparagus is heated through and coated with the rich garlic-butter sauce.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice as preferred to elevate the flavors.

Serve Warm: Remove the skillet from heat, then garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

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

- Presentation Tips: For an impressive display, serve the dish on a large, white platter, artfully arranging the shrimp and asparagus. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce over the top for an elegant finish, and consider adding a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst of freshness.