Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors and convenience. These foil packs are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a delicious meal. The bright lemon and aromatic garlic enhance the shrimp and asparagus, creating an irresistible dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 12 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil packs means you’ll have less to wash up afterward—just toss the foil!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a rich sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Enjoy these foil packs on the grill or in the oven—perfect for any season.
• Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from asparagus, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure seamless cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Grill or oven
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Ensures that your foil packs hold up during cooking without tearing.
• Grill or oven: Provides versatile cooking methods, allowing you to achieve that perfect flavor whether you’re inside or outside.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients easily before adding them to the foil packs.

Ingredients

For these Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

For the Shrimp

• 1 1/2 lbs large (21/25) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 Tbsp dry white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 4 tsp minced garlic (4 cloves)
• 2 tsp lemon zest

For Seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 6 Tbsp butter, diced into small cubes

For Topping

• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For Asparagus

• 1 lb medium thickness asparagus, woody ends trimmed

How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400 – 425 degrees F).

Step 2: Prepare Aluminum Foil Sheets

Cut 4 sheets of 14 by 12-inch heavy-duty aluminum foil then lay each piece separately on the countertop.

Step 3: Assemble Your Ingredients

Divide shrimp among packs near the center then place asparagus to one side of the shrimp (going in the long direction of the foil).

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Pour 1/2 Tbsp white apple vinegar over each pack. Sprinkle over garlic (1 tsp per packet) and lemon zest, then season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add Butter

Divide butter pieces evenly among packets layering them over the shrimp and asparagus.

Step 6: Wrap Your Packets

Wrap packets in by crimping edges together then wrap ends up. Don’t wrap too tight—keep a little extra space inside for heat to circulate.

Step 7: Cook

Grill sealed side upward until shrimp has cooked through, about 9 – 10 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Carefully unwrap then drizzle with lemon juice (or just serve with lemon wedges for spritzing) and sprinkle with parsley.

Enjoy your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce!

How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Serving Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce can elevate your meal experience. These foil packs are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the foil packs over a warm bed of jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the garlic lemon butter sauce, enhancing every bite with extra flavor.

In a Salad Bowl

• Create a fresh salad by placing the contents of the foil pack over mixed greens, adding a light vinaigrette for an extra zing.

With Lemon Wedges

• Include lemon wedges on the side to allow guests to spritz additional citrus over their dish, enhancing the bright flavors of the shrimp and asparagus.

How to Perfect Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

To achieve the best results with your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs, consider these helpful tips for preparation and cooking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and asparagus will provide the best flavor and texture, making your dish more enjoyable.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure each foil pack has enough space for heat circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on grill temperature; check shrimp doneness early if using a different setup.

• Experiment with Seasoning: While garlic and lemon are classic flavors, feel free to add herbs like thyme or dill for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the buttery sauce wonderfully.

2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy touch.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch that pairs well with shrimp.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds sweetness and texture that balances the richness of the butter sauce.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness alongside their savory counterparts in this dish.

6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors without overpowering the main dish while keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. If you leave them on the grill or in the oven for too long, they can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them and check for a pink color to indicate doneness.

• Not trimming asparagus ends: The woody ends of asparagus can be tough and unappetizing. Always trim the bottom part before cooking to ensure a tender bite.

• Using too much butter: While butter adds flavor, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced taste without being overly greasy.

• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! This simple step enhances flavors and brings out the best in your ingredients.

• Wrapping foil too tightly: When sealing the foil packs, leave some space for steam to circulate. Wrapping too tightly can lead to uneven cooking.

• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and brightness. Don’t skip this ingredient; it elevates your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat within this timeframe for best quality.

Freezing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

• Wrap individual packs tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place foil packs on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one pack in the microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes or until heated throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and place the pack inside. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce that may help you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What other vegetables work well in foil packs?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes as tasty alternatives alongside asparagus.

How do I know when shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp should turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust seasonings, swap out vegetables, or even try different herbs based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors that’s both quick and easy to prepare. This versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for an even more personal touch!