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Garlic Shrimp Asparagus Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 52 reviews

Garlic Shrimp Asparagus Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender sautéed shrimp, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a garlicky, lemony sauce with fresh parsley and parmesan. This easy-to-make recipe offers a delightful balance of citrus brightness, subtle heat from red pepper flakes, and a creamy finish provided by butter and freshly grated parmesan.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 0.5 lb spaghetti (preferably Barilla for best al dente texture)
  • 1.5 tbsp salt
  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil

For the Asparagus:

  • 1 lb asparagus (tough ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (Kerrygold recommended)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp pepper

For the Shrimp and Sauce:

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 5 garlic cloves (finely minced)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1.5 tablespoons salt and 1.5 tablespoons olive oil to the water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. While the pasta cooks, prepare the asparagus and shrimp ingredients.
  2. Prepare the Asparagus: Trim tough ends from the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter foams, add the asparagus, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until asparagus is tender-crisp and lightly golden. Remove asparagus to a plate and set aside.
  3. Make the Garlic Sauce and Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts foaming, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to infuse the oil with garlic flavor.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Turn the heat to medium-high. Add shrimp to the skillet and season immediately with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook shrimp about 1 minute per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix gently to combine flavors.
  5. Combine and Serve: Drain the pasta well and add it directly to the skillet with shrimp and sauce. Add the cooked asparagus back to the pan. Toss all ingredients gently but thoroughly, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavorful garlic-lemon sauce. Serve immediately topped generously with freshly grated parmesan cheese for a smooth, silky finish.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan rather than pre-grated for better melt and texture.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
  • Trim asparagus ends thoroughly to avoid tough bites.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to heat preference.
  • Reserve some pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce for a silkier consistency.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/garlic-shrimp-asparagus-pasta-recipe/