Asparagus and Shrimp with Angel Hair – Light, Flavorful & Quick Dinner

Looking for a quick, healthy dinner that’s light yet satisfying? Asparagus and Shrimp with Angel Hair is the perfect dish. This combination of tender shrimp, fresh asparagus, and angel hair pasta is tossed in a light lemony garlic sauce for a meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

With just a handful of ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for something flavorful, light, and a little bit indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes

• Light yet satisfying – Perfect balance of protein, veggies, and pasta

• Lemon garlic sauce – Fresh, zesty, and full of flavor

• Low-calorie and healthy – Packed with protein and veggies, while still being comforting

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Ingredient Overview: What You’ll Need

Shrimp

Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for ease. Shrimp is high in protein and cooks quickly.

Asparagus

Fresh asparagus adds a touch of earthy flavor and bright green color. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Angel Hair Pasta

Angel hair cooks quickly and is perfect for light, flavorful dishes like this one. You can also use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Garlic

Garlic adds a punch of flavor to the dish. Use fresh garlic, minced finely for maximum aroma.

Lemon

Fresh lemon zest and juice add brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the shrimp and the pasta.

Olive Oil

Used for sautéing the shrimp and asparagus, adding healthy fats and richness to the sauce.

White Wine (Optional)

A splash of dry white wine helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the sauce. You can substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

Freshly grated parmesan for a rich, salty finish.

Fresh Herbs

Chopped parsley or basil for garnish and a fresh herbal kick.

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How to Make Asparagus and Shrimp with Angel Hair (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Pasta

• Cook 8 oz angel hair pasta according to package directions.

• Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.

2. Sauté the Shrimp and Asparagus

• While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add 1 lb shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

• In the same skillet, add 1 bunch of asparagus (cut into 2-inch pieces) and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add 2–3 cloves garlic (minced) and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

3. Make the Sauce

• Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

• Add the juice of 1 lemon and zest of ½ lemon, then simmer for 2 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.

• Stir in 2 tbsp olive oil and add salt and pepper to taste.

• If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

4. Combine the Shrimp, Asparagus, and Pasta

• Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the asparagus.

• Toss in the cooked angel hair pasta and mix everything well, ensuring the pasta is coated in the sauce.

• If you like, you can add a bit more reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

5. Finish and Serve

• Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional) and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

• Serve immediately with a wedge of lemon for extra brightness.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for the Best Flavor

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they stay tender and juicy.

• Reserve pasta water: It’s starchy and will help make the sauce creamy without cream.

• Use fresh lemon for the best flavor, and consider adding some zest to the sauce for an extra burst of citrus.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Shrimp and Asparagus: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

• Tomato and Basil: Add cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a summery twist.

• Creamy Version: Add ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a rich, creamy version.

Substitutions

• No white wine? Use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.

• Low-carb? Replace the angel hair pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

• No shrimp? Use chicken breast or scallops instead.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners – Quick, easy, and satisfying.

• Special occasions – Light and elegant, great for impressing guests.

• Meal prep – Easily reheats for a tasty lunch or dinner the next day.

Serve with:

• A side salad with lemon vinaigrette or olive oil dressing.

• Garlic bread or keto bread for a more filling meal.

• Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for extra greens.

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Nutritional & Health Benefits

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, 4 total):

• Calories: 370–420

• Protein: 35–40g

• Fat: 20–25g

• Net Carbs: 20–25g (depends on pasta choice)

• Fiber: 4–5g (if using zucchini noodles)

Nutrient Highlights:

• Shrimp provides lean protein and omega-3s.

• Asparagus offers fiber, folate, and antioxidants.

• Lemon and garlic add vitamin C and immune-boosting properties.

• Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that also adds flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp, asparagus, and pasta in advance. Store everything separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Just skip the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

3. What can I substitute for angel hair pasta?

You can use any low-carb pasta, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or even spaghetti squash for a lower-carb alternative.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach to the skillet while cooking the asparagus.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

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