Dive into the flavors of the sea with this simple and delicious Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce recipe. It's an easy-to-make dish that's ideal for a quick weekday dinner or a weekend BBQ. The combination of juicy shrimp, tender asparagus, and a tangy garlic lemon butter sauce wrapped up in a foil pack not only seals in the flavors but also makes clean up a breeze.
This recipe calls for fresh asparagus and large shrimp; ingredients you may not typically have on hand. Fresh asparagus should be firm and bright green with closed, compact tips. When choosing shrimp, opt for large or jumbo size for a more satisfying bite. You can usually find these ingredients in the fresh produce and seafood sections at your local supermarket, respectively. Additionally, dry white wine is used in this recipe to enhance the flavors. If you don't usually keep a bottle in your pantry, a mini bottle from the liquor store will suffice.
Ingredients for Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
Large shrimp: Juicy and succulent, they're the star of the dish. They're not just tasty but also a great source of lean protein.
Dry white wine: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp and asparagus, providing a subtle sweetness and acidity.
Garlic: A staple in many dishes, it gives a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Lemon zest: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter.
Butter: Brings a creaminess that binds all the flavors together and adds a lovely richness to the dish.
Fresh lemon juice: Injects a refreshing, citrusy note that lifts the entire dish.
Fresh parsley: Gives an earthy flavor and a pop of color.
Medium thick asparagus: A nutritious vegetable that adds a crunchy texture and its unique, mild flavor.
One reader, Birdie Mcdevitt says:
This shrimp and asparagus foil pack recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the garlic lemon butter sauce is divine. It's so easy to make and the foil packs make for easy cleanup. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Techniques for Making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
How to prepare the foil packs: Cut 4 sheets of 14x12-inch heavy-duty aluminum foil and lay each piece separately on the countertop.
How to grill the foil packs: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400 to 425 degrees F) and grill the foil packs for about 9 to 10 minutes, sealed side upward, until the shrimp have cooked through.
How to unwrap the foil packs: Carefully unwrap the foil packs after grilling.
How to drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley: Drizzle the foil packs with lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley before serving.
How To Make Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
Bursting with fresh and delicious flavors, you’ll love this Shrimp and Asparagus that are cooked together in foil packs, soaked in a tasty buttery sauce!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbslarge shrimp,(21/25) peeled, deveined
- 2tbspdry white wine,or chicken broth
- 4tspgarlic,(4 cloves), minced
- 2tsplemon zest
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 6tbspbutter,diced into small cubes
- 1½tbspfresh lemon juice
- 2tbspfresh parsley,chopped
- 1lbmedium thick asparagus,woody ends trimmed
Instructions
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Preheat a grill to medium-high heat about 400 to 425 degrees F).
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Cut 4 sheets of 14×12-inch heavy-duty aluminum foil, then lay each piece separately on the countertop.
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Divide the shrimp among the packs near the center then place the asparagus to one side of the shrimp (going the long direction of the foil).
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Pour ½ tablespoon of white wine over each. Sprinkle over garlic (1 teaspoon per packet) and lemon zest, then season with salt and pepper.
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Divide the butter pieces evenly among packets layering them over the shrimp and asparagus.
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Wrap the packets in and crimp the edges together, then wrap the ends up (don’t wrap too tight; keep a little extra space inside for heat to circulate).
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Grill for about 9 to 10 minutes, sealed side upward, until the shrimp have cooked through.
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Carefully unwrap, then drizzle with lemon juice (or just serve with lemon wedges for spritzing) and sprinkle with parsley.
Recipe Notes
- For baking in the oven: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Cook for 13 to 15 minutes.
- A good side dish for these is couscous, orzo, or rice since there’s that delicious sauce with a little extra to go around.
Nutrition
- Calories: 311.22kcal
- Fat: 19.21g
- Saturated Fat: 11.45g
- Trans Fat: 0.73g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.23g
- Carbohydrates: 8.37g
- Fiber: 2.87g
- Sugar: 2.45g
- Protein: 26.20g
- Cholesterol: 260.12mg
- Sodium: 969.58mg
- Calcium: 138.51mg
- Potassium: 473.75mg
- Iron: 3.08mg
- Vitamin A: 288.93µg
- Vitamin C: 13.25mg
Mastering the Art of Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
When preparing your shrimp and asparagus foil packs, it's important to ensure that your shrimp are properly deveined and cleaned before cooking. This not only improves the texture and flavor of the shrimp, but also makes for a more pleasant eating experience. Additionally, when grilling the packs, make sure to keep a close eye on them as shrimp cook quickly and can easily become overcooked and rubbery. The key is to grill just until the shrimp are opaque and the asparagus is tender. Lastly, don't forget to give the packs a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. This will enhance the flavors and add a refreshing citrus note to the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the shrimp the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut asparagus: Buying pre-cut asparagus can save time on prep work and make the process more efficient.
Grill in batches: If you have a large quantity to cook, consider grilling the foil packs in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar delicate and sweet flavor to shrimp, making them a great substitute in this recipe. They also cook quickly and pair well with the garlic lemon butter sauce.
asparagus - Substitute with green beans: Green beans have a similar crisp texture and can absorb the flavors of the garlic lemon butter sauce. They also cook quickly and complement the other ingredients in the foil packs.
Presentation Ideas for Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
Elevate the plating: When presenting the shrimp and asparagus foil packs, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Arrange the shrimp and asparagus in a balanced and artistic manner on the plate, ensuring that each ingredient is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce elements of color to the plate to enhance its visual appeal. Consider adding a pop of color with a garnish of microgreens or edible flowers to bring a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. By strategically leaving areas of the plate bare, you can draw attention to the exquisite arrangement of the shrimp and asparagus foil packs.
Focus on precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the presentation reflects a high level of precision and attention to detail. Every element should be purposefully positioned to create a visually stunning dish.
Incorporate texture: Introduce elements of texture to the presentation by adding a delicate sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the sensory experience and elevate the overall appeal of the dish.
Emphasize the freshness of ingredients: Highlight the freshness of the shrimp and asparagus by presenting them in a way that accentuates their natural beauty. Let the quality of the ingredients shine through in the presentation.
Create a harmonious composition: Strive to create a harmonious composition on the plate, ensuring that the arrangement of the shrimp and asparagus foil packs reflects balance and sophistication, appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Approach the plating as an opportunity for artistic expression. Treat the plate as a canvas, and use your creativity to design a presentation that captivates and delights the senses.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp and Asparagus
- Grill: A cooking appliance used for grilling the shrimp and asparagus foil packs.
- Aluminum foil: Used to wrap the shrimp and asparagus for grilling, keeping the ingredients moist and flavorful.
- Knife: Used for cutting the asparagus and preparing the ingredients.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing the asparagus and other ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the garlic, lemon zest, and other ingredients accurately.
- Grilling tongs: Essential for flipping and handling the foil packs on the grill.
- Lemon squeezer: Used to extract fresh lemon juice for the garlic lemon butter sauce.
- Mixing bowl: Used for mixing the garlic lemon butter sauce ingredients.
- Serving platter: Used for serving the cooked shrimp and asparagus foil packs.
- Kitchen shears: Helpful for cutting the aluminum foil to the desired size for the foil packs.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
- Let the shrimp and asparagus foil packs cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled foil packs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze the foil packs:
- Wrap each cooled pack tightly with an additional layer of aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped packs in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
- To reheat the shrimp and asparagus foil packs from frozen:
- Remove the desired number of packs from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the thawed foil packs on a baking sheet and loosely open the top of each pack to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the shrimp and asparagus are heated through and the butter sauce is sizzling.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
How to Reheat Leftover Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
- To reheat leftover shrimp and asparagus foil packs in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp and asparagus are heated through and the butter sauce is sizzling.
- For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Remove the shrimp and asparagus from the foil packs and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the shrimp from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp and asparagus are heated through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- If you prefer a crispy texture on your reheated asparagus, you can remove the shrimp and asparagus from the foil packs and place them on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven's broiler to high and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil the shrimp and asparagus for 2-3 minutes, or until the asparagus is lightly charred and the shrimp are heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- For a stovetop reheating option, remove the shrimp and asparagus from the foil packs and place them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan to help recreate the steaming effect of the foil packs. Cover the skillet and heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp and asparagus are heated through and the garlic lemon butter sauce is bubbling.
- Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the shrimp with a meat thermometer. The shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. If the shrimp were previously cooked to this temperature and you're simply reheating them, you can aim for a slightly lower temperature, around 120°F (49°C), to prevent overcooking.
Interesting Trivia About Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
Shrimp and asparagus foil packs with garlic lemon butter sauce is a delicious and healthy meal option. It's a great source of lean protein and essential vitamins. Shrimp is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced diet. Asparagus is rich in fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K. This dish is not only flavorful but also provides numerous health benefits. It's a perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, and the foil packs make for easy cleanup. Enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends!
Budget-Friendly: Making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs at Home
The cost-effectiveness of this shrimp and asparagus foil packs with garlic lemon butter sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. Shrimp and asparagus can be on the pricier side, but the dish offers a luxurious dining experience. The use of butter and white wine may add to the cost. However, the exquisite flavors and the overall dining experience make it worth the investment. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe rates a solid 8 for its taste and presentation. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $40-$50, making it a special yet feasible option for a delightful meal.
Is This Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe Healthy?
The shrimp and asparagus foil packs with garlic lemon butter sauce recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it does have some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. Let's break it down:
Healthy aspects:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable, providing fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and antioxidants
- Garlic and lemon offer antioxidants and vitamin C, which support immune function and overall health
Less healthy aspects:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat and calories
- White wine, although used in small quantities, adds extra calories and sugar to the dish
- The recipe does not include any complex carbohydrates or additional vegetables, which could provide more fiber and nutrients
To make this recipe healthier, a few simple tweaks could be made:
- Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace some of it with heart-healthy olive oil
- Add more vegetables to the foil packs, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Serve the foil packs with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or whole grain pasta to incorporate complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
- Use fresh herbs, like basil or oregano, to add more flavor without increasing calories or fat
- Limit the use of added salt, and instead rely on the natural flavors of the ingredients and herbs to season the dish
Editor's Opinion on This Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
The shrimp and asparagus foil packs with garlic lemon butter sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of white wine, garlic, and lemon zest adds a refreshing and tangy taste to the succulent shrimp and crisp asparagus. The grilling method enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, and the garlic lemon butter sauce brings a rich and indulgent finish to the dish. This recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and delicious outdoor meal, and it's sure to impress your guests with its vibrant and mouthwatering appeal.
Enhance Your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Shrimp and Asparagus
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs
Why trust this Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe:
This recipe is a testament to the freshness and quality of its ingredients. The succulent shrimp and vibrant asparagus are carefully selected to ensure the best flavors and textures. The addition of garlic and lemon zest infuses the dish with a burst of aromatic flavors. The butter and white wine create a luscious and indulgent sauce that perfectly complements the seafood and vegetables. With a harmonious blend of seasonings and a simple grilling method, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying dining experience.
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