GARLIC BUTTER SHRIMP AND ASPARAGUS
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish packed with bold flavours. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in rich garlic butter, complemented by the natural crunch of asparagus and a hint of spice from chilli flakes. Add salt and pepper for taste. This dish is high in protein, low in carbs and filled with essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. The combination of garlic, butter and shrimp creates a savoury depth, while the asparagus adds freshness and balance. This dish is made with minimal ingredients and is ready in minutes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even as an appetiser at gatherings. It is served with rice, quinoa or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a flavourful side dish, this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus is sure to impress.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Entrée, Lunch, Dinner, Appetisers, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean, European, American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Sauté, 5 Ingredients or Less, Quick & Easy, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Valentine’s Day, Dinner Party, Family Gathering, Easter, Thanksgiving, Super Bowl, Summer, Spring, Picnic
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Protein, Low Carb, Low Cholesterol, Low Sodium, Quick & Easy, Wheat/Gluten-Free, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Entrée, Main Course, Seafood, Side
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus:
- 80g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 tsp butter
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp chilli flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 7g
- Fibre: 1g
- Sugar:5g
- Sodium: 90mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Ingredients: Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus.
- Heat The Butter: In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter until slightly foamy. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook The Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan and season with salt, pepper and chilli flakes. Sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté The Asparagus: In the same pan, add the asparagus and cook for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
- Combine And Serve: Return the shrimp to the pan, toss everything together and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Plate and serve warm.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
6–7 minutes
TIPS
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp provide the best texture and flavour.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more or less chilli flakes depending on your spice preference.
- Enhance The Flavour: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish.
- Pair With A Side: Serve with quinoa, couscous or mashed cauliflower for a balanced meal.
- Add A Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts for extra texture.
- Make It Extra Saucy: Increase the butter and garlic for a richer, more indulgent version.
VARIATIONS
- Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp: Add fresh lemon zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh basil, parsley or dill for added freshness.
- Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Replace chilli flakes with Cajun seasoning for a Southern-inspired version.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap butter with sesame oil and add soy sauce and ginger for an umami-rich dish.
- Parmesan Finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for extra savoury flavour.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the asparagus for an earthy taste.
- Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: Wrap shrimp in bacon before cooking for a smoky twist.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat for best texture.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked shrimp separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Make-Ahead: Prep shrimp and asparagus ahead of time and cook just before serving for the freshest taste.