Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta! This dish is a delightful medley of flavors that come together in just about 25 minutes. I remember the first time I made it; I was rushed after work, and it turned out to be a total game-changer! The juicy shrimp, tender asparagus, and earthy mushrooms create such a wonderful harmony that makes my taste buds dance. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, this shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta. Each component plays a vital role in building that incredible flavor, so let’s get into it!
- 200g pasta – I usually go for spaghetti or fettuccine, but feel free to use your favorite type.
- 150g shrimp – Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well here. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking!
- 100g asparagus – Trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces. The green brings a lovely crunch and color to the dish.
- 100g mushrooms – I love using cremini or button mushrooms, sliced thin to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced for that aromatic kick. Garlic is a must in this recipe, trust me!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This will be your go-to for sautéing. The olive oil adds a fruity note that complements the dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, of course! A pinch of each will enhance all the flavors and make everything pop.
- Parmesan cheese – Grated, for serving. It adds that final touch of creaminess and richness that ties everything together.
Make sure to grab everything fresh for the best results! Now you’re ready to dive into cooking this delightful dish.
How to Prepare Shrimp Asparagus Mushroom Pasta
Alright, let’s get cooking! Preparing this shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you step-by-step. Trust me, you’re going to love how quickly it all comes together!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. I usually bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then toss in the pasta. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking! You want it al dente, so check the package for the recommended cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked perfectly, reserve a cup of the pasta water (this is liquid gold for later!) and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside while we move on to the good stuff!
Sautéing the Aromatics
Now, grab a large skillet and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned—burnt garlic is a no-no! You want just enough time for that beautiful aroma to fill your kitchen.
Adding the Shrimp and Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add the shrimp! Pop them into the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Then, toss in the asparagus and sliced mushrooms. Stir everything together and let it sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant. The colors are just stunning!
Combining Ingredients
Finally, it’s time to unite our flavors! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of that reserved pasta water to help everything come together. Mix it all up gently, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. I love serving this dish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top—so creamy and delicious! You’re all set for a delightful dinner that’s sure to impress!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the goodness packed into this shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta! Each serving is not only delicious but also gives you a nice balance of nutrients. Here’s the estimated nutritional data for one serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. If you’re swapping out pasta types or using different brands of shrimp, it might shift those numbers a bit. But overall, you’re looking at a nourishing, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and keep your taste buds happy!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to make your shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta even better! First off, using fresh ingredients is key—fresh shrimp and seasonal asparagus really elevate the dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, feel free to substitute it with chicken or tofu for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, since chicken will take a bit longer to cook through.
Also, don’t be shy with the seasoning! A little extra salt and pepper can really bring out the flavors. And if you want to add a splash of brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving works wonders. Lastly, remember to keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks—overcooked pasta can turn mushy, and we definitely want that perfect texture!
Serving Suggestions
To create a truly delightful meal with your shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta, I love pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the pasta beautifully. You could also serve it with some garlic bread—who can resist that warm, buttery goodness? If you want to get a bit fancy, a side of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze brings in another layer of flavor and makes the plate pop with color. And don’t forget a nice glass of white wine; a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with this dish. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely, you can use frozen shrimp for this shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking—this usually takes about 10-15 minutes in a bowl of cold water. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve that nice sear when you cook them. Just remember that frozen shrimp might take a minute or two longer to cook than fresh shrimp, so keep an eye on them and wait until they turn that lovely pink color!
What can I substitute for asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your thing, no worries! You can easily swap it out for other veggies. Broccoli florets, snap peas, or even zucchini work great in this recipe. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. If you like a bit of crunch, bell peppers also add a nice touch! The key is to choose vegetables that will sauté well and complement the flavors of the shrimp and mushrooms.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers of your shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit more olive oil to keep it from drying out. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick meal, just remember to cover it to keep it moist. Enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and packed with protein, thanks to the shrimp and veggies.
- Full of vibrant flavors from the fresh asparagus and earthy mushrooms.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite pasta or veggies.
- Deliciously satisfying, yet light enough to leave you feeling great!
Shrimp Asparagus Mushroom Pasta: 25-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and quick shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta dish that’s perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 150g shrimp
- 100g asparagus, trimmed
- 100g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink.
- Add asparagus and mushrooms, cook until tender.
- Mix the cooked pasta with the shrimp and vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the cooking time based on pasta type.
- Can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: shrimp asparagus mushroom pasta
