John Baudassi’s Garlic Butter Shrimp with Asparagus

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Season the Shrimp
   Sprinkle the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Cook the Asparagus
   Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the trimmed asparagus and sauté until tender-crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
   In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side.
4. Combine Shrimp and Asparagus
   Return the asparagus to the pan and toss with the cooked shrimp to combine.
5. Add Finishing Touches
   Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve
   Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful garlic butter shrimp with asparagus!

Variations and Tips for John Baudassi’s Garlic Butter Shrimp with Asparagus

Variations:

1. Add a Carb
   Serve the dish over cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa to make it a more filling meal.
2. Different Vegetables
   Substitute asparagus with green beans, broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas for variety.
3. Spicy Twist
   Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
4. Herb Alternatives
   Replace parsley with fresh basil, dill, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
5. Cheesy Addition
   Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the finished dish for a rich, savory touch.
6. Citrus Variations
   Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon juice for a unique citrus flavor.
7. Vegan Option
   Replace shrimp with tofu or chickpeas and use vegan butter to make the dish plant-based.

Tips:

• Shrimp Cooking
  Do not overcook the shrimp; they turn rubbery when overdone. Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Even Cooking
  Trim the asparagus to uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Make-Ahead Prep
  Peel and devein the shrimp and trim the asparagus ahead of time to save prep time.
• Pan Choice
  Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding, ensuring the shrimp and asparagus cook evenly.
• Enhance Flavor
  Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth when cooking the garlic for extra depth of flavor.
• Garnish Ideas
  Top with toasted almonds or pine nuts for added crunch and nuttiness.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations and tips to make the recipe your own!