Imagine a dinner that's not just quick and easy, but bursting with zesty, vibrant flavors that will make your taste buds dance with excitement! This Quick Lemon Pepper Shrimp Asparagus recipe is your ultimate solution to a gourmet meal that looks like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen, but can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or someone who craves restaurant-quality food without the hassle, this recipe is about to become your new go-to culinary lifesaver.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined, and the asparagus is trimmed to remove the tough ends.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the shrimp marinate, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and allow it to heat up for about 1 minute.
- Once the oil is hot, add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Sauté the asparagus for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Push the asparagus to one side of the skillet and add the marinated shrimp to the other side. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Once the shrimp are cooked through, mix them with the asparagus in the skillet. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon pepper if needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the lemon pepper shrimp and asparagus to serving plates. You can garnish with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Quick Lemon Pepper Shrimp Asparagus!
Tips
- Shrimp Timing is Crucial: Avoid overcooking by watching for the color change. Shrimp are done when they turn from translucent gray to pink and slightly curled.
- Maximize Flavor Infusion: Let the shrimp marinate for the full 5 minutes to ensure they absorb the lemon pepper and olive oil flavors completely.
- Asparagus Texture Trick: For perfectly crisp-tender asparagus, make sure your skillet is hot before adding them and don't overcrowd the pan.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Use medium-high heat and let the olive oil heat up for about a minute before adding ingredients to ensure even cooking and beautiful caramelization.
- Seasoning Hack: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. Sometimes a quick extra sprinkle of lemon pepper can elevate the entire dish.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives and a wedge of lemon on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 394kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 48g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 200mg
