What is the best thickness of asparagus to use in shrimp foil packs?

Medium-thick asparagus spears work best for shrimp foil packs. Thick spears may not cook fully by the time the shrimp is done, while thin spears tend to overcook and become too soft. Using medium thickness ensures the asparagus remains tender yet crisp, perfectly complementing the shrimp’s texture.

Can I cook shrimp and asparagus foil packs in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, shrimp and asparagus foil packs can be baked in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the packets for 13 to 15 minutes. This method is ideal for colder months or when a grill isn’t available, delivering evenly cooked shrimp and vegetables with minimal fuss.

What side dishes go well with shrimp and asparagus foil packs?

Shrimp and asparagus foil packs pair well with light, grain-based sides like couscous, orzo, or rice, which help soak up the flavorful juices. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice also works great. Adding a generous amount of garlic in the foil pack enhances the taste and complements the sides perfectly.

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking in foil packets?

To avoid overcooking shrimp, use medium-sized shrimp and monitor the cooking time closely—typically 10 to 15 minutes depending on heat source. Medium-thick asparagus will finish cooking at the same time, ensuring a balanced texture. Avoid using extra-large shrimp or cooking too long to keep them tender.

Is it necessary to add sauce or seasoning in shrimp and asparagus foil packs?

Yes, adding seasoning and a light sauce like garlic butter, lemon juice, or olive oil enhances the flavor significantly. Garlic is especially recommended—around 1 teaspoon per serving—to complement the natural taste of the shrimp and asparagus. Season well with salt and pepper to bring the dish together.

Shrimp And Asparagus Foil Packs With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Name: Shrimp And Asparagus Foil Packs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (21/25 size), peeled and deveined; – 1 pound medium-thickness asparagus with woody ends trimmed; – 2 tablespoons dry white wine or chicken broth; – 4 teaspoons minced garlic (from 4 cloves); – 2 teaspoons lemon zest; – 6 tablespoons salted butter cut into small cubes; – 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; – 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; – Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

Description

🍤 This Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Pack with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal packed with protein and vitamins.
🍋 The foil pack method locks in freshness and flavors, making cleanup easy and perfect for grilling or oven baking.

Ingredients

– 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (21/25 size), peeled and deveined

– 1 pound medium-thickness asparagus with woody ends trimmed

– 2 tablespoons dry white wine or chicken broth

– 4 teaspoons minced garlic (from 4 cloves)

– 2 teaspoons lemon zest

– 6 tablespoons salted butter cut into small cubes

– 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

– Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

Instructions

1-Getting started: First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400 to 425°F, or your oven to 425°F if you prefer baking. Cut four 14×12-inch sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and divide the 1 1/2 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp and 1 pound of trimmed asparagus evenly among them for even portions.

2-Next: pour 1/2 tablespoon of dry white wine or chicken broth over each pack, then sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of minced garlic and lemon zest per packet. Season everything with salt and pepper, and evenly distribute the 6 tablespoons of cubed salted butter over the top for that rich, garlic lemon butter sauce. Wrap the foil packets securely, leaving a bit of space inside for heat to circulate, which helps cook the ingredients uniformly.

3-Now: grill the packets upright for 9 to 10 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked, or bake them in the oven for 13 to 15 minutes. Once done, carefully unwrap the packets to avoid steam burns, then drizzle with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

🌿 Use medium-thick asparagus to ensure even cooking.
🍋 Avoid zesting the bitter white pith of the lemon for best flavor.
🍋 Use freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the sauce’s brightness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling or baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 358 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 356 mg
Fat: 19 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 474 mg

Keywords: shrimp foil pack, asparagus recipe, garlic lemon butter, healthy grilling