Looking for a quick, tasty meal? You’re in the right place. This Sheet-Pan Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Asparagus recipe is simple, healthy, and full of flavor. In just a few steps, you’ll have a vibrant dish that impresses family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings and Fresh Ingredients
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
– Sheet pan
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowl
For this dish, I love using fresh, quality shrimp. They bring a sweet flavor that pairs well with asparagus. The asparagus adds crunch and bright color. Olive oil keeps the shrimp moist and helps the seasonings stick.
Zesty lemon zest and juice brighten the entire dish. Black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder add warmth and depth. Fresh parsley is a lovely touch that brings freshness to the table.
You will need a sheet pan for cooking and parchment paper for easy clean-up. A mixing bowl helps combine all the ingredients nicely. This simple setup makes cooking fun and easy. Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheating the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp and asparagus cook evenly. While the oven heats, you can prepare your ingredients.
Preparing the Shrimp and Asparagus
Next, grab a large bowl. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Trim the asparagus and toss it in the bowl too. Pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt to taste. Mix everything well until each piece is coated.
Cooking Steps
Arranging on the Sheet Pan
Now, take a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Spread the shrimp and asparagus evenly across the pan. Make sure they are in a single layer. This helps them cook well and get that nice, roasted flavor.
Baking Time
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them. The shrimp should look opaque, and the asparagus should be tender but still crisp.
Final Touches
Garnishing before Serving
After baking, take the pan out of the oven. Let it cool for a minute. Finally, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. You can serve it straight from the pan or transfer it to a platter. Add lemon wedges on the side for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Achieving Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
To cook shrimp just right, look for that pink color. Cook them until they turn opaque. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes at 400°F. Overcooking makes shrimp tough, so watch closely.
– How to Keep Asparagus Tender-Crisp
For asparagus, trim the ends to keep them fresh. When you bake, don’t overcrowd the pan. This allows the heat to reach all sides. You want them bright green and slightly firm for the best bite.
Storage Tips
– Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover shrimp and asparagus, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool them down first to avoid moisture build-up.
– Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes. This helps keep the shrimp tender and the asparagus crisp.
Serving Suggestions
– Presentation Tips
You can serve this dish right from the sheet pan for a casual vibe. If you want to impress, transfer it to a large platter. Add lemon wedges for color and extra flavor.
– Accompaniments for the Meal
Pair this meal with a light salad or some crusty bread. A side of rice or quinoa also works well, soaking up the lemony juices. Enjoy!
Variations
Alternative Vegetables
You can switch out asparagus for other veggies. Broccoli is a great choice. It adds crunch and pairs well with shrimp. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces. Toss it in olive oil, lemon, and spices before baking.
Bell peppers are also a fun option. They bring a sweet flavor and bright color. Slice them into strips and mix them in with the shrimp. Both options cook nicely and add more nutrients.
Different Seasonings
Try different flavors to change the dish. Cajun spice mix gives it a kick. It adds heat and depth. Simply replace the black pepper with this mix. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
Italian herbs can also work well. Use a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. This adds a nice, fresh taste. Mix it in with the other seasonings for a new twist.
Protein Swaps
Want to switch proteins? Chicken breast is one choice. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and follow the same steps. It cooks in about the same time as shrimp.
For a vegetarian option, try tofu. Firm tofu works best. Cut it into cubes and press to remove extra water. Toss it in the same marinade as the shrimp. It will soak up all those great flavors.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
– Total Calories per Serving: Each serving has about 220 calories.
– Macronutrients Overview: This dish has roughly 25 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 6 grams of carbs.
Health Benefits
– Nutritional Advantages of Shrimp and Asparagus: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Together, they create a powerful dish.
– Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Olive oil adds healthy fats. It can help lower bad cholesterol. The lemon zest and juice boost flavor without extra calories.
Dietary Considerations
– Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. It fits well into low-carb diets.
– Considerations for Allergies: If you have seafood allergies, substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu. Always check for cross-contamination in your kitchen.
FAQs
What can I use instead of shrimp?
You can use chicken, tofu, or scallops. Each option brings its own flavor.
– Chicken: Cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook until no longer pink.
– Tofu: Use firm tofu, cut into cubes. Press it before cooking.
– Scallops: Use large scallops. They cook fast, just like shrimp.
How long do I bake the shrimp at 400°F?
Bake the shrimp for 10 to 12 minutes. They will turn opaque when done.
– Check for doneness: Look for a pink color and firm texture.
– Asparagus: It should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and asparagus in advance.
– Marinate: Toss them in the seasoning and store in the fridge.
– Timing: Cook within 24 hours for best taste.
What is the best way to reheat leftover sheet-pan shrimp?
Reheat in the oven or a skillet for best results.
– Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake for about 5-7 minutes.
– Skillet: Heat on medium for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently.
This blog post shared how to make a tasty sheet-pan shrimp dish. We covered key ingredients like shrimp and asparagus, plus the right seasonings. You learned about the needed equipment and the step-by-step cooking guide. Cooking tips ensure your shrimp cook just right, and we discussed swapping proteins and veggies for variety. Lastly, we explored nutritional benefits and answered common questions.
Try this recipe today for a healthy meal that’s fun to make!
