Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Asparagus Bake – Quick Weeknight Meal 2025
When it comes to quick, flavorful, and wholesome dinners, few dishes can match the elegance and simplicity of roasted shrimp and asparagus. This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines juicy shrimp, tender asparagus, savory feta, and briny olives—all roasted to perfection in a single pan. Perfect for a breezy weeknight meal or a dinner party, it delivers both convenience and gourmet flair.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every detail: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, variations, serving ideas, storage, and FAQs—everything you need to make this dish a regular in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple – Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pan recipe saves you time without sacrificing flavor.
- Bursting with Mediterranean Flavors – Garlic, paprika, lemon, feta, and olives combine for a mouthwatering taste experience.
- Healthy and Gluten-Free – Naturally low-carb and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for health-conscious eaters.
- Seasonal Versatility – Spring, summer, or even light winter dinners, this recipe shines all year round.
- Customizable – Swap herbs, vegetables, or proteins to suit your taste.
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: Large, peeled shrimp are ideal. They cook quickly, absorb flavors beautifully, and provide a satisfying protein boost.
- Asparagus: Fresh asparagus offers a tender, slightly crisp base that pairs perfectly with shrimp.
- Red Onion: Adds natural sweetness and caramelization during roasting.
- Mediterranean Seasonings: Garlic, paprika, oregano, and lemon juice infuse bold flavors.
- Feta & Olives: Creamy feta and briny olives add richness and depth.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, parsley, or basil brighten the dish and add a fresh finishing touch.
Pro Tips Before You Start
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp and pat dry to ensure they roast rather than steam.
- Trim asparagus ends to remove woody parts and maintain tenderness.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment or foil for even roasting and easier cleanup.
- Add feta and herbs after baking to preserve their texture and flavor.
- Season generously—Mediterranean dishes rely on bold flavors, so don’t be shy with spices, lemon, or olive oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Roasted Shrimp & Asparagus
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
Mix thoroughly until every shrimp is coated evenly.
Step 3: Prep the Asparagus Base
- Wash and trim 1 bunch of asparagus.
- Lay them evenly on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble for Roasting
- Place seasoned shrimp evenly on top of the asparagus.
- Scatter thinly sliced red onion over the shrimp and asparagus.
- Roast in the oven for 10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and just starting to golden.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Remove from oven.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup crumbled feta and 1/4 cup sliced olives over the hot shrimp and asparagus.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
- Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
What to Serve With Roasted Shrimp and Asparagus
- Herbed Couscous or Orzo: Absorbs the flavorful juices from the pan.
- Warm Pita or Flatbread: Ideal for scooping and enjoying every bite.
- Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad: Adds a refreshing, light contrast.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes or Lemon Rice: Perfect for a hearty, filling meal.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetables: Swap asparagus for zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers.
- Olives: Use Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or green olives for different briny notes.
- Spice: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes roasted alongside shrimp add juicy sweetness.
- Proteins: Chicken tenders, cod, or salmon fillets can replace shrimp; adjust cooking times accordingly.
Nutritional Highlights (Approx. per Serving)
- Calories: 220–250
- Protein: 23g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fat: 14g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil and feta)
- Fiber: 3g
This makes it a low-carb, protein-rich, Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for dinner or light lunches.
Storage & Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or skillet to maintain texture; avoid microwaving shrimp to prevent rubberiness.
- Not ideal for freezing due to the delicate texture of shrimp and feta.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Fully thaw and pat dry before seasoning for best results.
Is this dish spicy?
No, but you can add red pepper flakes if desired.
Can I prepare ahead of time?
Prep vegetables and shrimp a few hours ahead, but roast just before serving.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
Substitute with fresh parsley, basil, or chives.
Can I grill instead of roast?
Absolutely. Use a grill pan or foil packet over medium-high heat until shrimp are cooked.
When should I add feta?
Add feta after roasting to preserve creaminess and prevent melting into the pan.
Extra Tips for Perfect Roasted Shrimp and Asparagus
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—shrimp need space to roast evenly.
- Use a mix of herbs—thyme, oregano, or dill complement Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
- Finish with lemon zest—adds a fresh pop of citrus that elevates the dish.
- Pair with wine—a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works perfectly.
- Experiment with roasted garlic—it deepens flavor without overpowering the dish.
Creative Twists and Serving Ideas
- Mediterranean Grain Bowl: Serve over quinoa or farro with a dollop of tzatziki.
- Shrimp Wraps: Wrap roasted shrimp and asparagus in a warm tortilla with hummus.
- Brunch Version: Add poached eggs on top for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast or brunch.
- Sheet Pan Party Platter: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and artichokes for a colorful dish perfect for entertaining.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balance of Flavors: Juicy shrimp, crisp asparagus, tangy feta, briny olives, and citrus create a harmonious Mediterranean palette.
- Texture Contrast: Tender shrimp, slightly crunchy asparagus, and creamy feta make every bite interesting.
- Speed: Minimal prep and one-pan cooking save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Easy to modify for dietary preferences, seasonal vegetables, or personal taste.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Shrimp and Asparagus dish is more than just a quick meal—it’s a flavorful Mediterranean experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Bright, fast, and simple to make, it delivers a gourmet feel without complicated steps. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Give it a try, and you’ll quickly see why this one-pan wonder earns a spot on every dinner table.
