Description
A quick and flavorful Shrimp and Asparagus recipe featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, smoked paprika, and a hint of heat, paired with crisp-tender asparagus. Perfect as a light standalone dish or served over rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Asparagus
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Asparagus: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Asparagus: Cook the asparagus, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender and bright green. For softer asparagus, continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the marinated shrimp and cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Add Lemon Juice: Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the fresh lemon juice to infuse brightness.
- Combine and Heat: Return the asparagus to the skillet with the shrimp and toss gently to combine. Cook together for 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley and add an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp and asparagus warm either on their own or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Notes
- To add extra spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all spices and ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- You can substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli florets if asparagus is unavailable.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a more complete meal.
- Adjust lemon juice quantity to taste for varying levels of brightness.
