This Shrimp and Asparagus Angel Hair Pasta is everything you want in a quick and satisfying dinner—light, fresh, garlicky, and packed with flavor. Tender shrimp are seared to perfection, paired with crisp-tender asparagus, and tossed in a bright lemon-white wine sauce that clings to delicate angel hair pasta. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley, it’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

If you’re looking for a meal that feels gourmet but comes together with everyday ingredients, this one delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and easy – ready in just 20 minutes
Fresh and flavorful – garlic, lemon, and white wine create a light but tasty sauce
Healthy – lean protein and veggies with minimal added fat
Great for weeknights – minimal prep, minimal dishes
Customizable – swap in your favorite pasta or seasonal vegetables

Ingredients

Tip: You can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

8 oz angel hair pasta
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 3–4 minutes).
Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and opaque.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Asparagus and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped asparagus.
Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until asparagus is just tender and garlic is fragrant.

4. Deglaze with Lemon

Pour in the lemon juice.
Let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta.
Toss everything together until the pasta is coated and ingredients are evenly combined.

6. Finish and Serve

Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss again.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Variations

Swap the protein: Use scallops, chicken, or tofu instead of shrimp.
Add a creamy twist: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream for a creamy garlic sauce.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
Low-carb version: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Herb it up: Try fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Not freezer-friendly: Angel hair pasta and shrimp don’t freeze well once cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will still shine.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

Try green beans, snap peas, or zucchini for a similar texture and color.

Is angel hair the only pasta that works?

No, you can use spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have.

How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?

Don’t overcook them—shrimp cook quickly and are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure your skillet is large enough to toss everything together evenly.

What can I use instead of white wine?

You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer to skip the wine.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes! It makes a great cold pasta salad with an extra splash of lemon and olive oil.

Is this good for meal prep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep components ahead and reheat gently.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal that doesn’t require a ton of time or effort, this Shrimp and Asparagus Angel Hair Pasta is the answer. It’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor from the garlic-lemon-wine sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this quick pasta dish delivers every time.

Chef sara

Shrimp and Asparagus Angel Hair Pasta