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: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 lb medium asparagus (woody ends trimmed); 4 tsp minced garlic; 6 Tbsp butter (diced); 2 Tbsp dry white apple vinegar or chicken broth; 2 tsp lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: July 26, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 12 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these foil packs in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the shrimp and asparagus.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Cook these foil packs on the grill for a smoky flavor or bake them in the oven for an easy indoor option.
Minimal Clean-Up: Cooking in foil means fewer dishes to wash afterward—just toss the foil when you’re done!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from asparagus, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

For making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Grill or oven
Measuring spoons
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Essential for creating tightly sealed packets that keep moisture locked in while cooking.
Grill or oven: Allows for versatile cooking methods; choose based on your preference or available equipment.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients like vinegar, garlic, and butter for perfect flavor balance.

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, aiming for about 400 – 425 degrees F.

Step 2: Prepare Foil Sheets

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

Step 3: Assemble the Packets

Divide the shrimp evenly among the packs near the center. Place asparagus alongside the shrimp, aligning it with the long direction of the foil.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Pour 1/2 tablespoon of white apple vinegar over each packet. Sprinkle minced garlic (1 teaspoon per packet) along with lemon zest. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add Butter

Distribute diced butter pieces evenly across each packet, layering them over both shrimp and asparagus.

Step 6: Seal the Packets

Fold up the edges of each foil sheet to crimp them together securely. Wrap ends upward but leave some space inside for heat circulation.

Step 7: Cook

Place packets on the grill with the sealed side facing upward. Grill until shrimp are cooked through, approximately 9 to 10 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Carefully unwrap each packet to avoid steam burns. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over everything before serving, or serve with lemon wedges for squeezing. Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley on top for garnish.

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. The vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the foil packs just before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

On a Bed of Rice

Serve the shrimp and asparagus over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the savory garlic lemon butter sauce.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

Offer slices of warm, crusty bread on the side to help scoop up any remaining sauce left on the plate.

With a Green Salad

Pair the dish with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Topped with Extra Herbs

Garnish each serving with additional fresh parsley or dill for added color and freshness.

Served Family-Style

Present all foil packs on a large platter, allowing guests to serve themselves directly from the foil for a fun and interactive dining experience.

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

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

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and asparagus enhances flavor and texture. Look for bright green asparagus and firm shrimp.
Control Cooking Time: Monitor cooking time closely. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so aim for 9-10 minutes on medium-high heat.
Seal Tight but Not Too Tight: When wrapping the foil packs, seal them tightly to prevent leaks but leave some space inside for steam circulation.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs or spices, such as red pepper flakes or thyme, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Adjust Butter Amount: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of butter without sacrificing flavor; just remember it adds richness.
Use Heavy-Duty Foil: Heavy-duty aluminum foil prevents tearing during grilling or baking, ensuring all juices stay inside while cooking.

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

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair well with Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the buttery shrimp perfectly.
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds freshness alongside the rich main dish.
Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch next to tender shrimp.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred enhances summer vibes when served alongside this dish.
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and balances out the flavors of the garlic lemon butter sauce.
Steamed Broccoli
Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that pairs well with both shrimp and asparagus.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and final dish.

Using unpeeled shrimp: Always use peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Shells can make the dish tough to eat.
Not seasoning adequately: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of the shrimp and asparagus, so sprinkle generously.
Overcrowding the foil packs: Avoid packing too many ingredients in one foil pack. This prevents even cooking. Stick to one serving per pack for optimal results.
Not preheating the grill or oven: Ensure your grill or oven is properly preheated before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked shrimp in just 9-10 minutes.
Improper wrapping of foil packs: Make sure to wrap your foil packs loosely. If they’re too tight, steam won’t circulate, leading to unevenly cooked shrimp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Allow food to cool down before refrigerating to maintain quality.

Freezing Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Place cooled foil packs in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat packs for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed completely before preparing your foil packs for even cooking.

How can I customize my Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also swap out the butter for olive oil or add spices based on your preference.

What type of asparagus is best for this recipe?

Medium thickness asparagus works best as it holds up during cooking without becoming mushy. Look for firm, bright green stalks.

How long do I need to cook the foil packs?

Cook your Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs on the grill or in the oven for approximately 9-10 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce offer a delicious and easy meal solution. This recipe is not only quick but also versatile—perfect for customizing with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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