Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lemon (juice and zest); 1 tablespoon butter (optional); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you want a lightning-fast dinner that feels like a special treat, Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) is your new best friend. This dish delivers big, bold flavors in almost no time—a zesty kick from fresh lemon, juicy shrimp alongside vibrant asparagus, and that unmistakable aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil. Every ingredient has a job: the shrimp turns blush-pink and soaks up the garlicky goodness, the asparagus stays bright and snappy, and everything’s tied together in under 20 minutes. Whether you’ve got a crew to feed or just need a delicious pick-me-up after a busy day, this recipe really shines!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) brings something special, keeping the recipe simple and unfussy, but never boring. Bright, familiar, and so easy to find—these are the flavors that guarantee a dish worth making again and again!

Shrimp: Quick-cooking and juicy, shrimp become the star with a little seasoning and just a flash in the pan.
Asparagus: Adds a sweet, grassy crunch that pairs perfectly with seafood and lemon.
Garlic: The flavor backbone—don’t hold back, minced garlic gives everything that irresistible aroma and bite.
Lemon (juice and zest): Both the juice and zest brighten the dish with tang and a pop of citrusy fragrance.
Olive oil: For sautéing everything to golden, flavorful perfection.
Butter (optional): A touch of richness that makes the whole dish a little more luxurious.
Salt: Just enough to bring out all the natural flavors.
Black pepper: Provides a little earthy heat that complements shrimp beautifully.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone wishing to add a whisper of heat—it’s totally up to your mood!
Freshly chopped parsley: A fresh, herbal finishing touch that really lifts every plate.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp under cool, running water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels—this helps them sear properly instead of steaming. Toss the shrimp in a generous sprinkle of salt and black pepper to really infuse each bite with simple seasoning right from the start.

Step 2: Trim the Asparagus

Grab that fresh bunch of asparagus and lightly snap off the woody ends. Cutting the stalks into even, bite-sized pieces keeps everything tender and easy to eat. This also ensures the asparagus cooks in the same amount of time as the shrimp, so nothing gets overcooked.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté for just a minute or two—enough for the kitchen to smell amazing, but not so long that the garlic browns. This step creates the flavorful base for your Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes).

Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp

Turn the heat to medium-high and slide those seasoned shrimp into the pan. Let each side cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until they turn a gorgeous pink and curl slightly. Once they’re done, remove them from the skillet so they stay juicy and don’t overcook as you finish the rest.

Step 5: Cook the Asparagus

Add a fresh tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, then toss in your cut asparagus. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes so it becomes bright green and just tender with a little snap. This balances perfectly with the delicate shrimp.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the pan and add both the lemon juice and zest. Drop in that knob of butter if you like extra richness. Toss everything together on medium heat for another minute or two—just enough to meld the tangy, garlicky, buttery flavors.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon your Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) onto plates, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and, if you like, a pinch of red pepper flakes for sparkle and heat. Serve immediately for the absolute best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes)

Garnishes

For an extra-fresh presentation, shower everything with chopped parsley and another dusting of lemon zest. Add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt for crunch and maybe a cheek of lemon on the side for anyone who craves more zing.

Side Dishes

This dish is bright and satisfying on its own, but it’s also a dream alongside crusty bread to mop up the juices, fluffy rice, or a pile of angel hair pasta. If you’re looking for something lighter, a crisp green salad is always a winner.

Creative Ways to Present

Skewer the shrimp and asparagus separately for individual kabobs at a BBQ, or spoon the mix over a bed of herbed couscous for a dinner-party-worthy platter. Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) also shines in lettuce wraps or as a special topper for creamy polenta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers will keep covered in the fridge for up to two days. Stash everything in an airtight container to really seal in the lemony, garlicky aromas until you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

Although asparagus can lose its snap and shrimp can texture changes after freezing, you can freeze this dish if needed. Pack tightly in a container, label it, and use within a month for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through. Splash in a little extra olive oil or lemon juice to revive any lost moisture. Try to avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. That way, your shrimp will sear beautifully and not turn mushy.

What if I don’t have asparagus?

No problem—swap in green beans, sugar snap peas, or even broccoli florets. Any crisp, green veggie will work well and offer a similar color and crunch.

Can I make Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative. The olive oil and lemon will still make the dish taste bright and rich.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only if you want it to be! The red pepper flakes are totally optional. If spice isn’t your thing, leave them out or add just a tiny pinch for subtle heat.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just be sure not to overcrowd your skillet—work in batches if needed so every shrimp cooks evenly and gets that delicious golden edge.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a fast, flavorful meal to shake up your routine, Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus (20-Minutes) could be your new weeknight hero. It’s colorful, bright, and impossibly fresh—give it a try and enjoy how easy it is to create something special in so little time!