Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes
Hey, pasta lovers and kitchen adventurers! Today, I'm thrilled to share a recipe that's a burst of freshness and flavor: Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta.
Imagine succulent shrimp kissed by the zesty tang of lemon, paired with vibrant asparagus and tossed with garlicky goodness. This dish is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or just looking to whip up a quick and delicious meal, this recipe has you covered. So, let's gather our ingredients and dive into a culinary experience that's as vibrant as it is satisfying!
Ingredients
🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 350
8 oz linguine or spaghetti (whole wheat or regular)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Steps
Step 1
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until they are tender-crisp.
Step 5
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and lemon zest. Squeeze in the lemon juice.
Step 6
Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss the ingredients to combine and warm through.
Step 7
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta with the lemon garlic sauce and incorporate all the ingredients.
Step 8
Divide the Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta among serving plates.
Step 9
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Make it your own!
Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula to the pasta for an extra burst of freshness.
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for additional layers of flavor.
Enhance the creamy texture by stirring in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Customize the level of heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, for varied texture and appearance.
