I make this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus dish when I want a light, fresh, and flavorful meal that comes together quickly. The bright lemon and savory garlic pair perfectly with tender shrimp and crisp asparagus for a delicious dinner.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast this recipe is and how fresh it tastes. The lemon juice adds brightness while the garlic gives it a rich, savory kick. Plus, cooking the shrimp and asparagus together means everything is perfectly cooked without much fuss or cleanup.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• shrimp, peeled and deveined
• fresh asparagus, trimmed
• olive oil
• garlic, minced
• lemon juice and zest
• salt and pepper
• red pepper flakes (optional)
• fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Then, I add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking until they turn pink and opaque. Next, I add the asparagus and lemon zest, stirring to combine and cooking until the asparagus is tender-crisp. Finally, I squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 2–3 people. Preparation and cooking together take roughly 15–20 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add cherry tomatoes or sliced mushrooms for more color and flavor. Swapping lemon for lime juice gives it a slightly different citrus twist. If I want more heat, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking for best results.

How do I know when shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp turns pink and opaque when done, usually after 2–3 minutes per side.

Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?

Absolutely. I like green beans, snap peas, or broccoli as alternatives.

How do I prevent shrimp from getting rubbery?

I cook shrimp quickly over medium heat and avoid overcooking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

I substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas and keep the same seasonings and veggies.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is one of my favorite quick meals that feels fresh and satisfying. The combination of bright lemon, savory garlic, and tender shrimp makes it perfect for busy weeknights or a simple dinner.