How to Trim Asparagus
Asparagus ends are fibrous and must be removed before cooking. The quickest method is to snap off the ends, and wherever they snap is where the fibrous part ends. Alternatively, you can use a vegetable peeler to eliminate the fibrous ends.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta
With the exception of the pasta, both the shrimp and scampi sauce come together in one pan. The beauty of this recipe is that the pasta and shrimp can be cooked simultaneously and are ready at about the same time. As this recipe comes together quickly, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before starting.
Pro Tip: Zest the lemon and set the zest aside before juicing it. Once you’ve cut the lemon in half, it becomes challenging to zest.
- Cook Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al-dente as per the package instructions.
- Cook Asparagus – In a separate large, deep pan over medium-high heat, add 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add asparagus, season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper, and cook uncovered for 5 minutes until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Transfer the asparagus to a plate.
- Sauté Shrimp – In the same hot pan, add the remaining butter and oil. Add garlic and, if desired, red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1 minute. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the shrimp turn pink and opaque (about 1 minute per side). Be careful not to overcook.
- Finish the Sauce – Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley, and stir to combine.
- Combine – Turn off the heat, return the pasta and asparagus to the pan, and toss to combine. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
