Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus: A Quick and Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Whenever I need a fast, fresh, and satisfying dinner, I turn to this lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus recipe. It’s packed with vibrant flavor, takes just minutes to prepare, and uses only one skillet—making cleanup a breeze. Juicy shrimp, tender asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce come together for a light yet fulfilling dish I can make any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers so much flavor with such little effort. The shrimp cook up perfectly tender, the asparagus stays crisp-tender, and the lemon garlic sauce ties everything together with a bright, savory finish. It’s low in carbs, naturally gluten-free, and versatile enough to serve with rice, pasta, or on its own. This is one of my go-to meals when I want something healthy, quick, and full of fresh, clean ingredients.

this Recipe

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 and cut into 2-inch pieces)

• Olive oil

• Garlic cloves (minced)

• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• Lemon zest

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. I add the asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes, just until it begins to soften but still has a bit of crunch. I transfer it to a plate and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I add a little more oil if needed and toss in the garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. I add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

5. I return the asparagus to the pan, squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything, and stir in lemon zest.

6. I cook for another minute, tossing everything to coat evenly in the lemon garlic sauce.

7. I serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley if I have some on hand.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time takes me about 10 minutes, and the cook time is around 10 minutes. Altogether, I can have this on the table in just 20 minutes.

Variations

• I sometimes add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for more vegetables.

• For extra richness, I finish the dish with a small pat of butter or a drizzle of cream.

• If I want a fuller meal, I serve it over rice, quinoa, or pasta.

• I’ve swapped shrimp for scallops or even tofu for a different protein option.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Microwaving works too, but I do it gently in short intervals. I don’t freeze this dish, as shrimp and asparagus can become rubbery or mushy once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

I watch them closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and firm—they only need a few minutes per side.

Can I roast the asparagus instead?

Absolutely. I roast it at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, then toss it into the skillet at the end to mix with the shrimp and sauce.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon?

I’ve used bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but I prefer fresh lemon for its brightness and zest.

Is this dish spicy?

Only if I add red pepper flakes. I adjust or skip them depending on how much heat I want.

Conclusion

Lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus is one of those dishes I keep coming back to. It’s fast, flavorful, and full of wholesome ingredients that make me feel good after eating. Whether I’m serving it for a light weeknight dinner or pairing it with grains for a more filling meal, it’s always a hit at my table.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus: A Quick and Flavorful One-Pan Meal

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course, Seafood
• Method: Sautéed, Skillet
• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus is a quick and healthy one-pan meal featuring tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this low-carb, gluten-free dinner is bursting with fresh flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh asparagus (trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add asparagus and cook 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds.

4. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

5. Return asparagus to the pan, add lemon juice and zest, and toss to combine.

6. Cook 1 more minute, stirring everything in the lemon garlic sauce.

7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

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Notes

• Add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for more veggies.
• Finish with butter or cream for a richer sauce.
• Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a fuller meal.
• Swap shrimp for scallops or tofu as desired.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp—they cook quickly and can turn rubbery.