Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Name: Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 lb medium-thickness asparagus (trimmed); 6 Tbsp diced butter; 4 tsp minced garlic; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 2 Tbsp dry white apple vinegar or chicken broth; 2 tsp lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 3, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 12 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter elevates the taste of shrimp and asparagus to new heights.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy this dish grilled for that smoky flavor or baked for an easy oven meal.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Easy Clean-Up: Cooking in foil means less mess and hassle when it’s time to clean up.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, gather your essential tools. Having everything prepared will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Heavy-duty aluminum foil: This ensures that your ingredients cook evenly while keeping all the delicious juices locked inside.
Grill or oven: Provides versatile cooking options to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Mixing bowl: Makes it easy to combine ingredients before assembling the foil packs.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect seasoning every time.

Ingredients

To create your 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 (about 4 cloves)
2 tsp lemon zest
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Sauce

6 Tbsp butter, diced into small cubes
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the 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/Oven

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400 – 425 degrees F). If using an oven, set it to bake at the same temperature.

Step 2: Prepare Your Foil Sheets

Cut 4 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil measuring 14 by 12 inches each. Lay each piece flat on your countertop.

Step 3: Assemble the Ingredients

Divide the shrimp evenly among the foil packs, placing them near the center. Arrange asparagus alongside the shrimp so that it runs parallel to the long side of the foil.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Pour 1/2 Tbsp white apple vinegar or chicken broth over each pack. Sprinkle minced garlic (1 tsp per packet) and lemon zest over everything. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Layer in Butter

Distribute butter pieces evenly across all packets, layering them over both shrimp and asparagus for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 6: Seal the Packets

Wrap each foil packet by folding in sides tightly but not too snugly—leave some space inside for heat circulation. Crimp edges together securely.

Step 7: Cook on Grill/Oven

Place packets on the grill with sealed sides facing up. Cook until shrimp is fully cooked through, about 9 – 10 minutes.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Carefully unwrap each packet. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving or offer lemon wedges for spritzing. Top with chopped parsley for a bright finish.

Enjoy your delicious 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 is simple yet elegant. These foil packs are perfect for a family meal or a casual gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

Crusty French Baguette: Slice a warm baguette for dipping into the rich garlic lemon butter sauce.
Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.

Add a Side Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a classic contrast to the shrimp and asparagus.

Accompany with Rice or Quinoa

Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest and herbs adds freshness to the meal.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain makes for a nutritious side that pairs well with seafood.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

Extra Zing: Provide lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an additional pop of acidity.

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:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and asparagus yield the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Packets: Ensure each foil pack has enough space for steam to circulate, which helps cook everything evenly.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices like red pepper flakes or thyme for added flavor.
Check Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on grill heat; ensure shrimp is fully cooked but not overdone.

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

Enhance your meal by pairing it with tasty side dishes that complement the flavors of Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic work well to soak up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds color and nutrition.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm foil packs.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds another healthy green option to your plate.
Couscous Salad: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes and parsley offers a delightful texture.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter is a sweet addition that pairs nicely with seafood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old shrimp or asparagus can ruin the flavor. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Overcrowding the foil packs: If you pack too many shrimp or asparagus into the foil, they won’t cook evenly. Make sure to leave space in each pack for heat circulation.
Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with seasoning to enhance the overall taste of your dish.
Cooking at the wrong temperature: If your grill is not hot enough, it may take longer to cook the shrimp. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for optimal cooking.
Rushing the wrapping process: Wrapping the foil too tightly can prevent steam from circulating. Make sure to leave a little space inside for the heat to circulate while cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover shrimp and asparagus foil packs in an airtight container.
They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

For longer storage, freeze individual foil packs before cooking.
They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat foil packs for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a pack on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when my shrimp is done?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It typically takes about 9-10 minutes on medium-high heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the foil packs in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to cook.

What should I serve with Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs?

These foil packs pair well with rice or a light salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or outdoor grilling sessions. Give it a try today!

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