Looking for a quick and flavorful meal that doesn’t skimp on taste? This spicy blackened shrimp and asparagus skillet is your answer! In just 20 minutes, you can have a delightful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. With the bold flavors of blackening spices and the freshness of asparagus, it’s a feast for your taste buds.
This recipe is not only fast but also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap the asparagus for your favorite veggies or serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. The combination of succulent shrimp with vibrant asparagus creates a colorful and appetizing plate that everyone will enjoy.
Quick and Flavorful Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus
This dish bursts with flavor and vibrant colors, perfect for a delightful meal. The combination of spicy blackened shrimp and crisp asparagus creates a satisfying experience that appeals to the senses.
Spicy blackened shrimp, coated in a zesty seasoning, are the star of this skillet. Each bite offers a perfect balance of heat and juiciness, complemented by the tender yet crisp asparagus. The bright green of the vegetables adds a refreshing contrast, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Preparation Made Easy
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With a total time of just 20 minutes, preparing a flavorful meal has never been easier. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a quick weekend treat.
Start by gathering your ingredients, which include large shrimp, asparagus, olive oil, and a mix of spices. This straightforward preparation allows for flexibility, letting you swap out asparagus for other vegetables if desired.
The Perfect Cooking Technique
Achieving that ideal blackened crust on the shrimp is key to this dish. Heating the olive oil over medium-high heat creates the perfect environment for searing. Toss the shrimp with the blackening seasoning for an extra kick, ensuring each piece is well-coated before cooking.
After a few minutes in the hot skillet, the shrimp transform into a beautifully cooked dish with a crispy exterior, while the asparagus is sautéed to maintain its vibrant color and crunch. The quick cooking method enhances the freshness of the vegetables, ensuring they retain their nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This colorful skillet can stand alone as a main dish or be served over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. The addition of lemon wedges provides a burst of acidity that brightens up the flavors, while a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a lovely touch of freshness.
Presenting this dish on a rustic wooden table not only enhances its appeal but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for your dining experience. The contrast of colors and textures makes it a feast for the eyes, encouraging everyone to dig in.
Nutritional Highlights
Beyond its beautiful presentation and vibrant flavors, this blackened shrimp and asparagus skillet is also relatively healthy. With just 280 calories per serving, it’s a nutritious option packed with protein and healthy fats.
The dish provides a great source of protein from the shrimp, while the asparagus contributes essential vitamins and minerals. This combination not only satisfies hunger but also supports a balanced diet.
Final Touches
To wrap up your cooking adventure, don’t forget the finishing touches that elevate this dish to the next level. The lemon wedges offer an option for those who enjoy a tangy kick, while the parsley garnish adds a pop of color and freshness.
This spicy blackened shrimp and asparagus skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a wonderful way to bring flavors and nutrition together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a solo indulgence, this dish promises to impress and satisfy.
Quick and Flavorful Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus
This blackened shrimp and asparagus skillet is a zesty dish featuring tender, juicy shrimp coated in a spicy blackening seasoning, paired with crisp asparagus. The taste is a delightful balance of heat from the spices and the freshness of the vegetables, making it a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with blackening seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender yet still crisp.
- Combine and Serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet, toss with the asparagus, and heat for another 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 6g