Name: Asparagus and Shrimp with Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ounces uncooked angel hair pasta; 1/2 pound uncooked shrimp (16-20 per pound), peeled and deveined; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 8 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms; 1/4 cup chopped seeded tomato, peeled; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions; 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth; 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh basil; 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano; 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley; 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Lemon wedges (for serving)

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This Asparagus and Shrimp with Pasta recipe is a light yet flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and angel hair pasta, all tossed in a fragrant, herb-infused sauce. With fresh basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley, this dish bursts with aromatic flavors, making it a perfect choice for a quick, healthy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with vibrant flavors from the fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of white wine or chicken broth. The shrimp are tender and perfectly seasoned, while the asparagus and mushrooms provide just the right amount of crunch. With the addition of grated Parmesan cheese, this meal is both satisfying and light, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasions.

Ingredients

3 ounces uncooked angel hair pasta
1/2 pound uncooked shrimp (16-20 per pound), peeled and deveined
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
8 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1/4 cup chopped seeded tomato, peeled
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh basil
1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano
1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp: Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and crushed red pepper flakes. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and keep them warm.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir-fry the asparagus, mushrooms, tomato, garlic, and green onions until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
Add Wine and Seasonings: Add the white wine (or chicken broth) and stir in the fresh basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Combine the Shrimp and Pasta: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to combine everything. Continue to cook, stirring, until everything is heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
Serve: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of fresh citrus.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños to the mix.
Different Pasta: Feel free to swap out the angel hair pasta for other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute angel hair pasta with any pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh. Use 1/3 of the amount indicated for fresh herbs (for example, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil for 1-1/2 teaspoons fresh).

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can cook the shrimp and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat and toss with the pasta.

5. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make the dish heartier and more nutritious.

7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

8. How can I make this dish creamier?

For a creamier version, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk when combining the pasta and shrimp mixture.

9. Can I use dried pasta instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried pasta, just cook it according to the package directions before adding it to the skillet.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water to help loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Asparagus and Shrimp with Pasta is a flavorful and light dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The shrimp are tender, the vegetables are crisp, and the fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma to the dish. Paired with pasta and topped with Parmesan, it’s a satisfying and healthy meal that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor! Enjoy it as a weekday dinner or serve it at your next gathering for a meal everyone will love.