Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? Try my Sheet-Pan Lemon Pepper Shrimp with Asparagus Delight! This dish is fresh, zesty, and ready in just 30 minutes. With juicy shrimp and crisp asparagus tossed in lemon and spices, it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe keeps clean-up easy, too. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Seasoning Ingredients
– Zest of 1 large lemon
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Sea salt to taste
Garnishing Ingredients
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
This recipe uses bright, fresh ingredients to create a tasty dish. The large shrimp bring a sweet, juicy flavor. The asparagus adds a nice crunch and earthy taste. Olive oil helps everything cook evenly and adds richness.
The lemon zest and juice give a bold, tangy kick. Black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the flavors. Sea salt balances all the tastes and brings out the best in each ingredient.
When you finish cooking, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color. The lemon wedges add a fun touch, too. You can squeeze them over the dish for extra brightness. This meal is not just quick; it is also packed with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy cooking with these great ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line the sheet pan with parchment paper.
Mixing and Coating
– Combine shrimp and asparagus in a bowl.
– Add olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
– Season with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt.
In this step, the key is to coat the shrimp and asparagus well. The olive oil helps the seasonings stick and adds flavor. The lemon zest gives a fresh taste, while the juice adds a nice tang. Mix everything gently, so you do not break the shrimp.
Baking Instructions
– Spread the mixture on the sheet pan.
– Bake for 10-12 minutes until shrimp is opaque and asparagus is tender.
When you spread the mixture, make sure each piece has space. This helps everything cook evenly. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when done, and the asparagus will be tender yet still crisp. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it bakes!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensure even cooking by not overcrowding the sheet pan. Give each shrimp and piece of asparagus space to cook.
– Adjust cooking time based on shrimp size. Larger shrimp might need a minute or two more.
Flavor Enhancement
– Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This small addition can make a big difference.
– Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill. They can brighten the dish and add new flavors.
Presentation Tips
– Serve directly from the sheet pan for a casual look. It makes cleanup easy and feels homey.
– Use lemon wedges for an elegant finish. Guests can squeeze fresh juice to enhance the flavors.
Variations
Vegetable Alternatives
You can easily switch out asparagus for other veggies. Broccoli and snap peas work well. They add crunch and color to your dish. Cherry tomatoes also make a great addition. They bring a sweet burst to each bite.
Protein Options
If you want a change, try chicken breast or tofu. Both options taste great with lemon pepper. You can also use scallops for a more gourmet touch. They pair nicely with the flavors in this dish.
Flavor Variations
Want to mix it up? Try using lime or orange instead of lemon. These fruits add a new twist. You can also play with different spice blends. Adding herbs like dill or thyme can enhance the taste.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
You can keep your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you want to reheat them, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat or the microwave. This way, the shrimp stays tender and the asparagus keeps its crunch.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze cooked shrimp and asparagus, let them cool first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to squeeze out all the air. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. You can also place the bag in cold water for faster thawing.
Best Practices for Freshness
To check if shrimp is no longer safe to eat, look for a strong fishy smell or a slimy texture. Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy. For asparagus, check for bright green color and firm stalks. When buying, choose shrimp that feel firm and have a clean scent. As for asparagus, look for fresh, vibrant stalks without any brown spots.
FAQs
How do I prevent shrimp from being rubbery?
To keep shrimp tender, cook them quickly. Overcooked shrimp become tough. Here are some tips:
– Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp usually have better texture.
– Do not overcook: Bake for just 10-12 minutes. Shrimp should turn opaque.
– Avoid high heat: Stick to 400°F to cook shrimp evenly without drying them out.
– Marinate: Let the shrimp soak in lemon juice and olive oil for flavor and moisture.
These steps help you enjoy juicy, flavorful shrimp every time.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just follow these steps:
– Thaw the shrimp: Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
– Pat dry: After thawing, make sure to dry shrimp with paper towels. This helps them cook better.
– Marinate as usual: You can use the same marinade for thawed shrimp.
Using frozen shrimp is a great option for a quick meal.
What can I serve with Sheet-Pan Lemon Pepper Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some tasty options:
– Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice soak up the flavors.
– Quinoa: A healthy grain that adds protein.
– Salad: A fresh green salad balances the rich flavors.
– Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the juices.
These sides enhance your meal and make it even more enjoyable.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips:
– Cook in advance: Prepare the dish and let it cool.
– Store in containers: Place servings in airtight containers. This keeps them fresh.
– Reheat properly: Use the oven or microwave to warm up. Avoid overcooking.
Meal prepping with this dish saves time and keeps meals tasty all week.
In this blog post, we explored a delicious sheet-pan lemon pepper shrimp recipe. You learned about ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. Remember, fresh herbs and spices can boost flavor. You can also try different vegetables to mix things up. Practical storage tips help keep your leftovers fresh. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy crafting this tasty meal; it’s a hit!
