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For this dish, you need fresh and simple ingredients: - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick) - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These main ingredients work together to create a savory, buttery sauce that coats the shrimp and asparagus perfectly. The key to a great flavor boost lies in the seasonings. - Garlic is a must for that rich, aromatic taste. - Lemon zest and juice add brightness and a fresh kick. - Salt and pepper enhance the dish's overall flavor. - Red pepper flakes provide depth and spice, if you like heat. These seasonings elevate the dish, making each bite delightful. Feel free to make this recipe your own. Here are some optional ingredients to consider: - Cherry tomatoes for a sweet burst of flavor. - Bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color. - Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top for a rich finish. These additions allow you to customize the dish to suit your taste. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Start by heating your skillet on medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Watch the butter closely as it melts. You want it to bubble but not burn. Once it starts bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. It should smell great and turn slightly golden. This step sets the stage for a rich flavor. Now, it’s time for the shrimp. Place the large, peeled shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Season them well with salt and black pepper. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes. Turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should turn pink and opaque, signaling they’re ready. With the shrimp nearly done, push them to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, add the asparagus pieces. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over the asparagus. This allows the spears to soak up that delicious garlic butter flavor. Stir the asparagus occasionally and cook for 4-5 minutes. You want them tender yet crisp, adding a nice bite to your dish. When the asparagus is ready, mix it together with the shrimp. Add the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This brightens the dish and enhances the flavor. Toss everything in the skillet for about one more minute. This helps combine all those tasty flavors into one mouthwatering dish. Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm over fluffy rice or with crusty bread. This way, you can enjoy every bit of that rich garlic butter sauce. Adding a bright side salad makes this meal even better. To make shrimp tender, start with fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Avoid overcooking them. Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes. They should turn pink and firm. If they curl too tightly, they are overdone. Rinse shrimp under cold water before cooking. This keeps them fresh and helps them cook evenly. When picking asparagus, look for bright green stalks. Stalks should be firm, not limp. The tips should be tightly closed and not wilted. To check freshness, snap a stalk. If it breaks easily, it’s fresh. Store asparagus upright in water in the fridge. This keeps them crisp until you are ready to use them. You can change the garlic butter to fit your taste. For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes. If you love herbs, mix in fresh thyme or basil. You can also try adding a splash of soy sauce for depth. For a creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream at the end. Adjust flavors by tasting as you go. This way, you create a dish you will love. For the full recipe, check the main article on Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Delight. {{image_4}} Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. Start with one teaspoon. You can add more if you like it hotter. When you cook the shrimp, it will soak up the heat. This gives each bite a nice, spicy lift. Love pasta? Serve the shrimp and asparagus over your favorite noodles. Cook spaghetti or fettuccine separately. Toss the pasta with the garlic butter sauce from the shrimp. This adds a rich flavor. It creates a complete meal that feels fancy. Mix in other veggies for more taste. Try bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or snap peas. These add color and nutrition. Just add them to the skillet with the asparagus. Cook until they are bright and tender. This way, you get a bright and tasty dish every time. For the full recipe, check out the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Delight 🧄! After enjoying Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus, you might have some leftovers. To store them well, place the shrimp and asparagus in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing the container. This helps keep the food fresh and safe to eat later. Store it in the fridge, where it will last for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, place the dish over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat for about five minutes, stirring often. If using the microwave, cover the dish and heat in short bursts. Check every 30 seconds until it’s warm. Be careful not to overheat, as it may make the shrimp tough. If you want to save your dish for longer, freezing is a good option. First, let the garlic butter shrimp and asparagus cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This dish can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best taste. I recommend using large shrimp, about 16-20 per pound. They cook well and have great flavor. You can use either wild-caught or farmed shrimp. Wild-caught often tastes better, but both work nicely. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan. Cooked shrimp turn a vibrant pink color. They also curl into a C shape. If they are gray or form an O shape, they are overcooked. Aim for 2-3 minutes of cooking time per side. You can serve this dish with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. A fresh salad also pairs well. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic shine next to something light and crisp. For the full recipe, check out the details above. You’ll find all the ingredients and instructions you need to make this delicious dish! This blog post covered easy, tasty garlic butter shrimp and asparagus. I shared the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to achieve perfect shrimp and customize flavors. Remember, you can store extras and even make delicious variations. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don't be afraid to try new ideas! This dish can impress anyone at your table. Now, get cooking and enjoy every bite!

20. Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus

Savor the flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Delight, a quick and effortless dish perfect for dinner! This recipe features tender shrimp and crisp asparagus sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, brightened with lemon. In just 20 minutes, you can serve a dish that’s not only delicious but visually stunning too. Click to explore the full recipe and impress your family tonight with this mouthwatering meal!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and bubbling slightly, add the minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

    Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, placing them in a single layer for even cooking. Season generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if you desire some heat. Allow the shrimp to cook for 2-3 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they turn a vibrant pink color.

      Add the Asparagus: When the shrimp are nearly cooked through, gently push them to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, add the cut asparagus pieces. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the asparagus, allowing it to melt and coat the spears.

        Sauté the Asparagus: Stir the asparagus occasionally as it cooks for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to become tender but still maintain a crisp bite to contrast with the shrimp.

          Combine and Flavor: Once the asparagus is done, mix the shrimp and asparagus together in the skillet. Add the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice, tossing everything together to blend the flavors. Cook for an additional minute to heat through and ensure everything is coated in the delicious garlic butter.

            Taste and Adjust: Carefully taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

                - Serving Suggestions: Serve warm over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Enjoy this mouthwatering dish with a bright side salad for a complete meal!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4