Speedy Lemony Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta

This Speedy Lemony Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta is my go-to when I need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table fast. I love how the bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the shrimp and garlic, making it feel so fresh and vibrant. It's proof that weeknight dinners don't have to be boring or complicated; even if you're new to cooking, you can whip this up without any stress.

Ingredients

• 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp.
4. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add the drained pasta, cooked shrimp, lemon zest, and chopped parsley to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.