Lemon Asparagus Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving a light, fresh, and zesty pasta dish, this Lemon Asparagus Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice. With tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a lemony garlic butter sauce, this meal comes together quickly and tastes like something straight from a restaurant. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.

Yield: 4 servings

Total Time: 35 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Author: Siddhanath Metkari

Tools for this recipe:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs
8. Microplane

Lemon Asparagus Shrimp Pasta Recipe Video:

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti works well)
2. 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3. 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
4. 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
5. 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
6. 3 garlic cloves, minced
7. 1 lemon, zested and juiced
8. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
9. Salt and pepper, to taste
10. Red pepper flakes (optional)
11. Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the pasta and cook it as instructed on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Don’t forget to save around 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Asparagus

As the pasta cooks, warm up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still slightly crisp. Season Add a dash of salt and pepper for flavor. Take the asparagus out of the pan and place it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In the same pan, pour in an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Remove from the pan and set aside with the asparagus.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and toss the butter into the skillet. After it melts, mix in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic. Add the lemon zest and juice, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir everything together.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the shrimp and asparagus. Toss everything together in the lemon garlic sauce. If the pasta appears to be dry, just add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the consistency you want.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Adjust Seasoning

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese to bring the dish together and add richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color. For an extra hit of brightness, add a bit more lemon zest on top.

Step 8: Enjoy

Serve your Lemon Asparagus Shrimp Pasta immediately, while it’s still warm and fresh. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

Tips:

• Substitute Protein: If you’re not into shrimp, grilled chicken or scallops are great alternatives.
• Make it Creamy: For a richer sauce, you can stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or mascarpone when making the lemon garlic sauce.
• Leftovers: Keep any leftover food in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, warm it up slowly on the stove, adding a little olive oil or water to bring the sauce back to life.

This Lemon Asparagus Shrimp Pasta is bright, fresh, and full of flavor. It’s a perfectly balanced dish, with the zestiness of the lemon cutting through the richness of the shrimp and Parmesan. Enjoy.

Lemon Asparagus Shrimp Pasta Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Health Benefits:

1. High in Lean Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
2. Rich in Vitamin C: Asparagus and lemon provide a good dose of Vitamin C, boosting the immune system.
3. Supports Heart Health: Olive oil contains healthy fats that may reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Packed with Antioxidants: Asparagus contains antioxidants like glutathione, which helps fight free radicals.
5. Aids in Digestion: Asparagus is high in fiber, supporting healthy digestion.
6. Promotes Healthy Skin: Vitamin C and antioxidants from lemon and asparagus support healthy, glowing skin.
7. Supports Bone Health: Parmesan cheese adds calcium, promoting strong bones.
8. Good for Eye Health: Asparagus contains Vitamin A, which helps maintain good vision.
9. Boosts Brain Function: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, supporting cognitive function and brain health.
10. Anti-Inflammatory: Olive oil and shrimp contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing.
• Freezing: While freezing the pasta is not recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze the cooked shrimp separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a little olive oil or a splash of water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently and heat until warmed through.

Reuse

• Mix leftovers into a salad for a refreshing lunch.
• Use as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
• Add to a frittata or scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast twist.

FAQ’s

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