Asparagus Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
A light and flavorful Asparagus Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta featuring tender angel hair pasta tossed with sautéed wild-caught shrimp, crisp-tender asparagus, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese. This quick and vibrant dish combines delicate textures and fresh ingredients for a perfect weeknight meal or impressive dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught recommended)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ons
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Spinach or arugula
- Capers
- Crushed nuts like pine nuts or walnuts
Instructions
- Cook the Angel Hair Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove shrimp from skillet to avoid overcooking.
- Prepare the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed. Add asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Optionally add minced garlic in the last minute and a splash of lemon juice.
- Combine Ingredients: Return shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Pour in reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant, flavorful pasta dish.
Notes
- Always salt pasta water generously to season the pasta from within.
- Do not overcrowd the shrimp when sautéing to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking asparagus to maintain a crisp texture.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help the sauce cling to noodles.
- Feel free to customize the dish with optional add-ons like cherry tomatoes, greens, or nuts.
Keywords: Asparagus Shrimp Pasta, Angel Hair Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, Seafood Pasta, Italian Dinner, Easy Weeknight Meal
