Easy One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

This is a vibrant, fresh, and satisfying dish that brings together succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a bright lemon garlic butter sauce in a single pan. It’s a quick, hassle-free recipe that delivers gourmet flavors without the need for multiple steps or excessive cleanup. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight, a light family dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is a go-to meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Why This Recipe is Easy and Convenient

One-pot meals are a lifesaver when it comes to minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. This Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus follows a straightforward cooking process, eliminating the need for multiple steps or excessive prep work. Here’s why it’s so convenient:

  • Minimal Cleanup – Everything cooks in one pan, meaning fewer dishes to wash.

  • Quick Cooking Time – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.

  • Simple Ingredients – Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find.

  • No Special Equipment Needed – A single skillet or sauté pan is all you need.

Why the Ingredients Work Together

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the bright, buttery, and deeply flavorful dish:

  • Shrimp – Tender, juicy shrimp cook quickly and absorb the lemon garlic butter beautifully.

  • Asparagus – Adds a crisp, slightly sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

  • Garlic & Onion – Essential aromatics that build a savory foundation for the sauce.

  • Butter & Olive Oil – Create a rich, velvety texture while enhancing the flavors.

  • Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the butter.

  • Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – A hint of spice to elevate the flavors.

  • Parsley – A fresh finishing touch that enhances the dish’s brightness.

Hearty and Comforting

Despite its light and fresh profile, this dish is deeply satisfying. The buttery garlic sauce coats the shrimp and asparagus, creating a silky, indulgent experience that feels restaurant-worthy. The lemon adds brightness, while the garlic and butter create richness, making it a perfect balance of comfort and freshness.

 

Perfect for Family Gatherings and Meal Prep

This dish is ideal for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for the week:

  • Feeds a Group – A large batch can easily serve family and friends at gatherings.

  • Stores Well – The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

  • Reheats Beautifully – A quick warm-up on the stove or microwave brings it back to life.

  • Versatile – Serve it over rice, pasta, quinoa, or even roasted potatoes for variety.

Easy One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Asparagus

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

  2. Cook the Shrimp: Season shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Asparagus: In the same pan, add asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

  4. Combine & Finish: Return shrimp to the pan, squeeze in lemon juice, add zest, and stir gently to combine. Let everything cook for 1 more minute.

  5. Serve & Garnish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley, and serve warm!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 30g

  • Carbohydrates: 6g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 450mg