Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce are a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or outdoor grilling, this dish combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus, all enveloped in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce. The foil packs ensure that every bite is infused with flavor while keeping the shrimp juicy and the asparagus crisp.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 12 minutes of prep time, you can have gourmet foil packs ready for cooking.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the natural flavors of shrimp and asparagus.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Cook these foil packs on the grill or in the oven, making them adaptable for any occasion or season.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil means fewer dishes to wash afterward—just toss the foil when you’re done!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make preparing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce easy and fun. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: It keeps moisture in while cooking, ensuring your shrimp remain juicy and your asparagus stays crisp.
• Grill or oven: Both options provide even cooking temperatures for perfectly prepared shrimp and asparagus.
• Mixing bowl: A bowl makes it easy to combine ingredients before distributing them into each foil pack.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Asparagus are cooked together in individual foil packs in a rich buttery sauce. The bright lemon pairs perfectly here and the garlic adds so much flavor. Cook them on the grill or in the oven.

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
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Sauce and Asparagus

• 6 Tbsp butter, diced into small cubes
• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 lb medium thickness asparagus, woody ends trimmed

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

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

Step 2: Prepare 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 Ingredients

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

Step 4: Add Flavor

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: Incorporate Butter

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

Step 6: Wrap Foil Packs

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

Step 7: Grill Until Cooked

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 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 a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful meal. The individual foil packs keep the ingredients moist and full of flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the foil packs directly on plates for a fun, interactive meal. Let everyone unwrap their own pack to reveal the delicious shrimp and asparagus inside.

Elegant Dinner Party

• Present the packs on a beautiful platter, garnished with extra lemon wedges and fresh parsley. This adds a touch of sophistication to your gathering.

Picnic Delight

• Pack the foil packs in an insulated cooler for an easy outdoor meal. They are perfect for grilling at a park or beach, allowing for minimal cleanup.

Meal Prep Option

• Store leftover shrimp and asparagus in airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week. They make great additions to salads or grain bowls.

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

To ensure your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs are perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, consider these tips.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and asparagus will enhance the overall taste of your dish. Look for vibrant, firm asparagus stalks and plump shrimp.

• Mind the cooking time: Keep an eye on the grill or oven timer. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so aim for about 9–10 minutes for perfect tenderness.

• Use quality butter: Opt for unsalted butter for better control over seasoning. It allows you to adjust salt levels according to taste.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or dill along with parsley for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs bring brightness to the dish.

• Adjust acidity: If you love tanginess, add more lemon juice before serving. A little zest can brighten up the foil pack even further.

• Customize vegetables: Don’t hesitate to mix in other veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition in each pack.

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

Pairing side dishes with Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the buttery sauce beautifully; serve warm with a sprinkle of parsley.

2. Quinoa Salad: This light dish adds texture and nutty flavor; mix quinoa with diced cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette.

3. Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice option cooked in broth; add nuts or dried fruits for added crunch and sweetness.

4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a satisfying side; toss cubed potatoes in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary before baking.

5. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only looks great on the plate but also provides additional nutrients; steam lightly until tender.

6. Coleslaw: A refreshing crunchy slaw can balance out the richness of the foil packs; use cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

7. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, avocado slices, and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil adds freshness.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the flavors well; grill it until charred for added smokiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using Frozen Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or thawed shrimp. Frozen shrimp can release excess water during cooking, affecting the sauce’s consistency.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; avoid leaving them on the grill or in the oven for too long. Aim for 9-10 minutes to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your shrimp and asparagus can lead to bland flavor. Use salt, pepper, and lemon zest generously for a burst of taste.
• Tightly Wrapping Foil Packs: Wrapping the foil too tightly can prevent steam from circulating, leading to uneven cooking. Leave a little space for heat to circulate.
• Ignoring Asparagus Thickness: Choose medium-thick asparagus for even cooking alongside the shrimp. Thin asparagus may overcook while waiting for the shrimp to finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover foil packs in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Freezing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

• Wrap individual foil packs tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat sealed packs for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the pack on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, add a little broth, and gently reheat uncovered until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other vegetables in my foil packs?

Yes! You can customize your foil packs by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl slightly but not be overcooked.

Can I make these foil packs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep them in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

What sides pair well with Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?

These foil packs go well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb?

Yes! By omitting high-carb sides like rice or bread, you can easily keep this dish low-carb while enjoying all its flavors.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce offer an easy yet delicious meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences, making it enjoyable every time you prepare it. Give this recipe a try and savor the delightful flavors!