- Fresh Shrimp (1 pound), peeled, deveined, and tails left on
- Asparagus (8 ounces), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tablespoons)
- Garlic Cloves (3-4 cloves), minced
- Red Pepper Flakes (to taste) - for added heat; use according to preference
- Salt (1 teaspoon for pasta water, plus more as needed)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon, optional but enhances flavor)
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish), chopped
**SEO Keywords**: easy pasta recipe, shrimp and asparagus pasta, quick dinner ideas, simple shrimp recipes, healthy dinner options, seafood pasta dish
Steps
### Easy & Tasty Pasta with Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Looking for an effortless yet delicious meal? This simple pasta with shrimp and asparagus recipe is perfect for weeknights or a casual dinner party. Follow these easy steps to create a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.
#### Ingredients:
- 200g spaghetti
- 150g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 bunches of asparagus, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving ¼ cup of the cooking liquid.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp and Asparagus:**
- While the pasta is cooking, trim the asparagus by cutting off the woody ends. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:**
- Add the shrimp to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside. Keep the cooking liquid in the pan.
4. **Cook the Asparagus:**
- Return the asparagus to the skillet with any accumulated juices from the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper. Squeeze the lemon zest over the vegetables and mix well.
5. **Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Asparagus:**
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with asparagus and shrimp. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. **Serve:**
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Enjoy your easy yet tasty pasta dish!
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By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to prepare a delicious pasta dish that is both quick and impressive. Perfect for any occasion or just a simple family meal!