Flavorful, juicy blackened shrimp paired with crisp-tender asparagus in one skillet. Low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly – the perfect fast weeknight dinner with restaurant-quality results.
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (raw, not pre-cooked)
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
1 1/2 lbs (700g) asparagus (1 or 2 bunches), rinsed and trimmed
1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable stock
1 tablespoon hot sauce, optional (Sriracha recommended)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon slices, red chili pepper flakes, and fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
In a large bowl, add the shrimp, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until fully coated. Set aside while you prep the asparagus.
Heat a medium to large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 tablespoon butter. Once the butter melts and foams, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned with slightly charred edges and cooked through. Remove to a plate and set aside.
If there are too many dark burnt bits in the pan, give it a quick rinse and dry. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add vegetable stock, lemon juice, and Sriracha. Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce slightly for about 1 minute.
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, turning regularly to coat in the sauce, until crisp-tender and bright green.
Push asparagus to one side. Return the blackened shrimp to the pan. Add a small squeeze of lemon juice and let everything reheat together for 1 to 2 minutes.
Remove from heat immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon slices, and red chili pepper flakes. Serve right away.
Notes
Use raw shrimp only – pre-cooked shrimp turns rubbery and will not develop the blackened crust.
If blackening spices leave bitter brown bits in the pan, rinse and dry the skillet before cooking the asparagus.
A store-bought Cajun blackening blend can replace the individual spices to save prep time.
Do not overcrowd the pan – cook shrimp in a single layer for best results. Work in batches if needed.
Shrimp is done when it forms a loose C shape and turns pink and opaque. An O shape means it is overcooked.