Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta and Vegetables

01 - 1/2 lb spaghetti
02 - 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2" pieces

→ Sauce Base

03 - 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
04 - 3 Tbsp olive oil, divided
05 - 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 1/2 Tbsp)
06 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, or added to taste

→ Protein

07 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 or 21-25 count)

→ Seasonings and Finishing

08 - 1 1/4 tsp fine sea salt, divided, plus more for cooking pasta
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper, ground, or to taste
10 - 1 Tbsp grated lemon zest
11 - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, from 1 large or 2 small lemons
12 - 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
13 - freshly grated parmesan, to serve

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp olive oil, and cook pasta according to package instructions until Al'dente, or desired doneness (meanwhile, continue with recipe). Drain pasta, return to pot, and cover to keep warm.
02 - Place a large, deep pan over medium/high heat and add 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add asparagus, season lightly with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper, and cook uncovered for 5 minutes or until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from pan.
03 - In the same hot skillet, add 2 Tbsp oil and 2 Tbsp butter. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, and sautee stirring frequently for 1 minute. Add shrimp in a single layer and season with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Saute until shrimp are pink and not translucent (about 1 minute per side). Be careful not to overcook or the shrimp will be tough.
04 - Add lemon zest, juice, and parsley, and stir to combine. Turn off the heat and return the pasta and asparagus to the pan. Toss everything to combine and serve with freshly grated parmesan.

# Notes:

01 - Be careful not to overcook shrimp to avoid toughness
02 - Can substitute asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli or peas
03 - For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream at the end