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Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes

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A quick and easy recipe featuring juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter with tender asparagus and sweet cherry tomatoes, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic. Set everything aside.
  2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Let it rest while you heat the pan.
  3. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Allow the butter to melt and foam but not brown.
  4. Add the shrimp in a single layer to the hot pan. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding—work in batches if needed. Remove shrimp to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
  5. In the same pan, add the asparagus pieces. Sauté until they turn bright green and become tender-crisp—about 4 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. If the pan looks dry, add a splash of water or more butter.
  6. Push asparagus to the side and add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir quickly to avoid burning the garlic. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook until just softened, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Return the shrimp to the pan, stir everything together gently. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and toss with chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve immediately while still warm and buttery.

Notes

Watch the garlic carefully to avoid burning as it can turn bitter. Add lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors. Use medium heat to prevent overcooking shrimp. Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed and patted dry. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and olive oil with coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, garlic butter, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, quick dinner, easy recipe, seafood, weeknight meal, low carb, gluten-free