Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce are a delightful and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these foil packs allow for minimal cleanup while delivering a punch of taste. The combination of succulent shrimp and tender asparagus, all enveloped in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce, makes this dish a standout choice. Whether you’re cooking on the grill or in the oven, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 22 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The garlic lemon butter sauce infuses each bite with incredible flavor.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: You can prepare these foil packs on the grill or in the oven, giving you flexibility based on your available equipment.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil means less mess, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from asparagus, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smoother and faster.

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 prevents leaks and ensures even cooking while sealing in flavors.
• Grill or oven: Both methods provide high heat for quick cooking, but grilling adds a nice smoky flavor.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that the flavors are balanced just right.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Asparagus

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 countertop.

Step 3: Assemble Shrimp and Asparagus Packs

Divide shrimp among packs near the center. Place asparagus to one side of the shrimp (going 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: Layer Butter

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

Step 6: Seal the Foil Packs

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

Step 7: Cook the Packs

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

Step 8: Serve

Carefully unwrap each pack, drizzle with lemon juice (or serve with lemon wedges for spritzing), and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

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 experience. These foil packs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing your dining pleasure.

For a Casual Dinner

• Serve with Crusty Bread – Pair the foil packs with some warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious garlic lemon butter sauce.
• Add a Green Salad – A simple mixed green salad adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the shrimp and asparagus.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store in Meal Prep Containers – Divide the cooked foil pack ingredients into individual meal prep containers for easy reheating during the week.
• Pair with Quinoa or Rice – Serve alongside quinoa or rice for a heartier meal that’s still nutritious.

For a Festive Occasion

• Garnish with Lemon Wedges – Present each foil pack garnished with lemon wedges for an elegant touch.
• Offer a Variety of Dipping Sauces – Provide different dipping sauces on the side, like cocktail sauce or aioli, to add more flavor options.

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

To ensure your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh shrimp and asparagus provide the best flavor. Avoid frozen if possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Cook until just pink; overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp. Aim for about 9-10 minutes on medium-high heat.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or garlic amounts according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Herbs – Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an additional layer of flavor beyond parsley.
• Ensure Proper Wrapping – Wrap packets tightly but leave room for steam. This helps cook evenly while retaining moisture.
• Try Different Vegetables – Mix in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for variety while keeping the same cooking method.

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

Complement your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with some delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with seafood.
2. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the foil packs.
3. Steamed Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice pilaf adds texture and absorbs the flavors from the shrimp dish beautifully.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn provides a crunchy contrast that brightens up your plate.
5. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and richness, balancing out the buttery shrimp.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Not Preheating Your Grill: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat (400 – 425 degrees F) before placing the foil packs on it.

• Overcrowding Foil Packs: Packing too much shrimp and asparagus into each foil pack can prevent proper cooking. Divide ingredients evenly across the packs for best results.

• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your shrimp and asparagus can result in bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and lemon zest for a flavorful dish.

• Wrapping Too Tightly: Wrapping the foil packs too tightly can restrict heat circulation. Leave a little extra space inside for effective cooking.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients will diminish the taste. Fresh shrimp and asparagus will elevate your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs in airtight containers.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Freezing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

• Place cooled foil packs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the foil pack on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve the best texture.

What other vegetables can I add to my foil packs?

You can customize by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes alongside shrimp and asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when my shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It should also curl into a C shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl into an O, which means they’ve become tough.

Can I prepare the foil packs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.

What is the best way to serve Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?

Serve them directly from the foil packs for an easy meal or transfer them onto plates. Drizzle with more lemon juice or garnish with fresh parsley as desired.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce offer an easy yet delicious meal option that’s perfect for grilling or baking. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try; you may discover your new favorite dinner!