Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta in Lemon Cream

Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta in Lemon Cream is a light, flavorful, and elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and al dente pasta are coated in a silky, lemony cream sauce that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet sophisticated—ready in under 30 minutes, packed with protein and veggies, and bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of citrus, cream, and garlic elevates the pasta into a restaurant-quality meal that feels gourmet without the fuss, making it a favorite for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances richness and freshness beautifully. The succulent shrimp paired with crisp-tender asparagus delivers a perfect mix of textures. The lemon cream sauce is tangy yet smooth, enhancing the flavor without overwhelming the ingredients.

It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights, and the dish is visually stunning, with vibrant green asparagus and golden shrimp. Each bite is comforting, yet light, and it’s a meal that feels indulgent while still healthy and satisfying.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

This pasta is a must-try because it elevates a classic cream pasta with fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. The lemon cream sauce brightens the flavors, making it perfect for spring and summer, yet comforting enough for year-round enjoyment.

It’s easy to customize with different vegetables or pasta types, and shrimp cooks quickly, keeping the dish ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for date nights, dinner parties, or quick weeknight meals, it’s flavorful, elegant, and satisfying.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté shrimp until pink, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute, then add asparagus and cook until tender-crisp, 3–4 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest; stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with sauce. Add cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Shrimp: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Sauté shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Cook Asparagus: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add asparagus pieces and cook 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Prepare Lemon Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Add lemon juice and zest. Stir until sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
6. Season and Garnish: Taste and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main course for dinner or lunch.
• Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or lemon slices for presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they become rubbery quickly.
• Reserve a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
• Fresh lemon juice brightens the cream sauce beautifully.

Variations for This Recipe

• Vegetable-Packed: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or peas.
• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Low-Fat: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken breast or scallops.
• Herb Twist: Add basil, thyme, or dill for a fresh herbal flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for cream-based pasta dishes, as the sauce may separate when thawed. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for asparagus and lemon
• Grater for Parmesan and lemon zest

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water.

Q2: Can I use other pasta types?
A: Absolutely! Linguine, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work well.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegan Parmesan.

Q4: How do I prevent the cream sauce from splitting?
A: Keep heat medium to low and stir constantly when adding cream and cheese.

Q5: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can prep shrimp, asparagus, and sauce separately, but best to combine and serve fresh.Conclusion

Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta in Lemon Cream is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a creamy, zesty sauce, it balances indulgence and freshness beautifully.

Easy to prepare yet visually stunning and restaurant-quality, this pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, brunches, or entertaining. Whether enjoyed with family, friends, or a special someone, this dish delivers bold flavor, healthy ingredients, and a luxurious dining experience in the comfort of your own kitchen.