Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Linguine

• 8 oz linguine
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. 2 While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2 minutes per side until pink.
3. 3 Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp butter. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. 4 Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. 5 Return shrimp to skillet with cooked pasta, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Toss to combine, adding pasta water as needed for sauce consistency.
6. 6 Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pasta pot
• Tongs or spatula

Variations

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang.
• Substitute linguine with whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

Substitutions

• If asparagus isn't available, use broccoli florets or zucchini slices.
• For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Pairings

• A fresh green salad
• Warm crusty bread

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, toast the garlic in butter until golden brown before sautéing.
• Ensure shrimp is fully cooked before adding back to the skillet to avoid overcooking.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding extra sauce if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

FAQ