Name: Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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This simple sheet pan recipe combines the buttery richness of shrimp with the vibrant freshness of asparagus. Accented with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors. Quick to prepare and light on cleanup, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with nutrients, this recipe celebrates spring’s freshest ingredients and is versatile enough for any season.

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on one side of a large sheet pan.
In a bowl, mix the shrimp with melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat evenly.
Place the seasoned shrimp on the sheet pan next to the asparagus.
Roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the asparagus is tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrients (Per Serving):

Calories: 230 kcal
Protein: High (from shrimp)
Fat: Moderate (from butter)
Carbs: Low
Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C, A, and K (from asparagus and lemon)
Antioxidants: Provided by shrimp and garlic

This recipe is a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make option for any occasion. Perfect on its own or served with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the lemon-butter sauce.

A Deliciously Simple Sheet Pan Recipe: Shrimp and Asparagus

If you’re in search of a recipe that seamlessly blends ease, nutrition, and elegance, this sheet pan shrimp and asparagus dish might just become your new favorite. Combining buttery shrimp with tender asparagus, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic, this recipe delivers a flavor-packed meal with minimal effort and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick addition to a casual dinner party menu.

The Appeal of Sheet Pan Cooking

Sheet pan recipes have become increasingly popular for a good reason—they are practical and versatile. By cooking everything on a single pan, you not only cut down on cleanup but also create opportunities for flavors to meld beautifully during the cooking process. This particular recipe exemplifies the charm of sheet pan meals, with juicy shrimp and crisp-tender asparagus roasting together in a rich, garlicky lemon butter sauce.

A Celebration of Freshness

At its core, this recipe highlights the freshness of its main ingredients: shrimp and asparagus. Shrimp, with its subtle sweetness and delicate texture, is complemented perfectly by the earthy crunch of asparagus. Both ingredients are accentuated by the citrusy brightness of lemon and the depth of garlic, creating a symphony of flavors that feels fresh and invigorating.

The use of asparagus is particularly fitting for spring, but its availability year-round makes this dish a versatile choice for any season. Whether you’re savoring this recipe as a light summer meal or a warming winter dinner, its flavors are timeless.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not just about great taste—it’s a powerhouse of nutrients:

Shrimp: As a lean source of protein, shrimp provides essential amino acids while being low in calories. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, and astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant.
Asparagus: A nutrient-dense vegetable, asparagus is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate. Its high fiber content supports digestion, while its natural antioxidants help combat oxidative stress.
Lemon and Garlic: Both lemon and garlic offer health benefits beyond flavor enhancement. Lemon provides vitamin C and boosts immunity, while garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy properties.

This recipe’s nutritional profile makes it a balanced option that fits into a variety of dietary plans, from low-carb and gluten-free to paleo and keto.

Culinary Versatility

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. While it shines as a standalone dish, it can easily be paired with a variety of sides to suit your preferences or the occasion. Here are a few ideas:

Grains: Serve the shrimp and asparagus over fluffy white rice, nutty quinoa, or a light couscous for a more filling meal.
Crusty Bread: Use a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful lemon-butter sauce.
Pasta: Toss the cooked shrimp and asparagus with pasta for a quick, elegant dinner.

Additionally, you can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes, or experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to add new dimensions to the dish.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe’s simplicity doesn’t mean it lacks sophistication. Its vibrant colors, enticing aroma, and exquisite flavors make it a dish that can easily be the centerpiece of a dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this shrimp and asparagus dish strikes a perfect balance between casual and refined.

Its quick preparation time (under 30 minutes, including prep and cooking) makes it particularly appealing for busy schedules. With just a few minutes of prep and the oven doing most of the work, you can enjoy a gourmet-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cooking Tips for Success

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and asparagus for the best results. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch but should be thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
Uniform Sizing: Trim the asparagus to uniform lengths and use similarly sized shrimp for even cooking.
Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on the oven to ensure they turn out perfectly tender.
Zest Before Juicing: Always zest the lemon before juicing it to avoid losing the zest’s aromatic oils.

Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Repeating

This sheet pan shrimp and asparagus recipe is a true gem for any home cook. Its combination of vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and wholesome ingredients make it a dish you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal or an impressive dish to serve to guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

By celebrating the natural beauty and taste of shrimp and asparagus, enhanced by the zest of lemon and the warmth of garlic, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!