Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
The Story Behind the Recipe
Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce are the epitome of easy, delicious, and healthy cooking. This dish embodies the essence of simple, yet flavorful meals that you can prepare with minimal fuss and maximum taste. The inspiration for this recipe comes from the desire to create a meal that’s both convenient and mouthwatering, ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner.
Imagine a summer evening by the grill, with the scent of garlic, lemon, and fresh seafood filling the air. Foil packs are a fantastic way to cook a meal with all the flavors sealed in, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. This method of cooking not only simplifies cleanup but also ensures that the shrimp and asparagus are perfectly tender and infused with the rich, zesty garlic lemon butter sauce.
This recipe is perfect for those who love quick, flavorful dishes that require minimal preparation. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking over a campfire, these foil packs deliver a burst of flavor and make for a satisfying, healthy meal.
Things to Consider
- Shrimp Quality: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking.
- Asparagus Size: Choose thin to medium-sized asparagus stalks. Thicker stalks may take longer to cook and can be less tender.
- Foil Pack Construction: Make sure the foil packs are tightly sealed to prevent the juices from escaping. This helps to keep the shrimp and asparagus moist and flavorful.
- Cooking Method: Adjust cooking times depending on whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking over a campfire.
Tips and Tricks
- Pre-Cut Vegetables: Cut the asparagus into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Customize Flavor: Add your favorite herbs or spices to the garlic lemon butter sauce for a personalized touch.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the asparagus is tender. Cooking times can vary based on the size of the shrimp and thickness of the asparagus.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes in the foil packs for added variety.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
