Indulge in the delightful combination of succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a light and flavorful sauce. This Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta is a quick and easy dinner option that’s both nutritious and delicious, perfect for any night of the week. Let’s create this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite type)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Asparagus:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet with the shrimp.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss to combine.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
How to Prepare
This dish is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and a quick cooking process. The shrimp and asparagus should be cooked just until tender to maintain their delicate textures. The lemon juice and zest add a bright note that complements the savory Parmesan and garlic. Serve this pasta dish hot for the best experience, and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 35 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Can I substitute another vegetable for asparagus? Absolutely! Broccoli, snap peas, or green beans are great alternatives that pair well with shrimp.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Can I add other seasonings or herbs? Feel free to add other herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.