Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With a smoky, spicy seasoning and bright lemon accents, it combines tender shrimp and crisp asparagus for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the blackening seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add lemon zest and juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir to combine. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh blackening seasoning or make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano for a custom flavor.
• Swap asparagus for green beans or broccoli if preferred.
• Serve over rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to make it a more filling meal.
• If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking asparagus.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can become tough if reheated too long.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear and prevent excess moisture in the skillet.

What if I don’t have blackening seasoning?

If you don’t have blackening seasoning on hand, you can mix your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 130 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A quick and flavorful Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet recipe featuring perfectly seasoned shrimp cooked to juicy tenderness alongside crisp-tender asparagus, finished with bright lemon and fresh parsley for a vibrant, healthy meal ready in just 20 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the blackening seasoning until they are evenly coated. This ensures the shrimp will have a robust and spicy flavor once cooked.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
3. Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the trimmed asparagus pieces and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender yet retains a crisp texture. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, infusing the asparagus with garlic aroma.
4. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon zest and juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a bright, flavorful dish.

Notes

• You can substitute blackening seasoning with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper if unavailable.
• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp or asparagus to maintain their texture and flavor.
• This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the blackening seasoning.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: blackened shrimp, asparagus skillet, quick shrimp recipe, healthy shrimp dinner, blackening seasoning, lemon shrimp, easy weeknight meal