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Easy One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus

one-pan lemon garlic butter shrimp and asparagus - featured image

A quick and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender shrimp and crisp asparagus in a bright lemon garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Mince the garlic and zest the lemon, then juice it.
  2. Place your skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and start bubbling gently — the butter should be hot but not browned.
  3. Toss the asparagus into the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp and bright green with a slight char. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Transfer asparagus to a plate and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  5. Add the shrimp in a single layer, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  6. Return the asparagus to the pan with the shrimp. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over everything. Toss gently to coat and warm through for another minute. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming. Add lemon juice at the end to preserve brightness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Fresh lemon zest and juice provide best flavor. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, asparagus, lemon garlic butter, one-pan, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, seafood