Asparagus Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Asparagus Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta is a light and flavorful dish combining tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and delicate angel hair pasta. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. This recipe highlights fresh ingredients and simple techniques for a delicious meal your whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces angel hair pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Step 2: Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Add minced garlic during the last minute if desired.
4. Step 4: Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Pour in reserved pasta water and lemon juice, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss gently with tongs until well combined and heated through.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp or asparagus to keep a pleasant texture.
• Swap olive oil for butter with garlic for a rich, creamy version.
• Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Try a spicy Cajun twist by seasoning shrimp with Cajun spices before cooking.
• For a vegetarian option, replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well when handled carefully.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well if thawed properly before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water for best results.

What if I don’t have angel hair pasta?

You can substitute with other delicate pasta shapes such as spaghetti or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thicker pasta may take longer to cook.

Asparagus Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 74 reviews

This Asparagus Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta is a light, flavorful dish combining tender angel hair pasta with succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon-Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, it offers a harmonious blend of textures and fresh ingredients that come together in under 35 minutes.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces angel hair pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ons

• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Spinach or arugula
• Capers
• Crushed nuts such as pine nuts or walnuts

Instructions

1. Cook the Angel Hair Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet.
3. Prepare the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Optionally, add minced garlic in the last minute and a splash of lemon juice.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return shrimp to skillet with asparagus. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Toss gently with tongs to combine and coat pasta evenly. Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Salt pasta water generously to enhance pasta flavor.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking shrimp to ensure even cooking.
• Do not overcook shrimp or pasta; shrimp should be pink and opaque, pasta al dente.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and enhance flavor.
• Let the combined dish rest for a minute to meld flavors before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Keywords: Asparagus Shrimp Pasta, Angel Hair Pasta Recipe, Quick Dinner, Seafood Pasta, Lemon Parmesan Pasta, Healthy Pasta Recipe, Easy Pasta Dish