Shrimp Asparagus Pasta is a light and flavorful dish that pairs tender shrimp and crisp asparagus with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon. The combination of sweet shrimp, fresh asparagus, and a zesty, buttery sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors that feels both indulgent and refreshing. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, but it’s elegant enough to serve for special occasions. Simple yet delicious, it’s sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and return the shrimp and asparagus to the skillet. Toss everything together, then add the cooked pasta and toss again to coat in the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Enjoy your Shrimp Asparagus Pasta as a delightful, fresh meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
