Introduction
Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that brings the flavors of the ocean and fresh veggies straight to your table. This meal is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a favorite among families, and I love how everyone at the dinner table enjoys it. Plus, it takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces of pasta (like fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the asparagus and sauté for about 3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to help combine.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the pasta and stir to mix well.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.
How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta
Serve this delicious pasta right from the skillet while it’s still warm. You can place it in bowls and sprinkle some extra parsley on top for color. A side salad or some warm bread pairs nicely!
How to Store Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly!
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- If asparagus is not in season, you can use broccoli or snap peas instead.
Variation
You can easily make this dish a little different by adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. You could even try adding cream for a richer sauce!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can! Just thaw them under cold water before cooking.
Q: What type of pasta can I use?
A: You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta!
Q: Can I make this dish without shrimp?
A: Absolutely! You can replace shrimp with chicken or even skip the protein for a veggie pasta option.