When it comes to quick yet impressive meals, few dishes hit the mark like Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or simply craving a delicious weeknight meal, this dish brings together everything we love—succulent shrimp, creamy pasta, a touch of lemony brightness, and a burst of fresh asparagus. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

This recipe is inspired by the kind of meal that looks fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The combination of shrimp, garlic, white wine, and a creamy sauce is a classic one, and the addition of asparagus and bowtie pasta elevates it to something truly spectacular. Plus, the versatility of this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser for any season—whether it’s a light summer evening or a cozy winter meal, it always delivers.

But before we get into the details of making this dish, let me share why I’m so in love with it. The first time I made this, I was experimenting with a few ingredients I had on hand. I was craving pasta but wanted to add something fresh, so I tossed in some asparagus that was sitting in the fridge. The result was a delightful balance of textures—the creamy pasta, tender shrimp, and the slight crunch of the asparagus. Add in the tangy lemon and savory garlic, and I was hooked! Since then, I’ve made this dish countless times, and it never fails to impress anyone who tastes it.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe and get started on what will become your new favorite pasta dish!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Asparagus

The foundation of any great pasta dish starts with perfectly cooked pasta. For this recipe, we’ll be using bowtie pasta (farfalle), which not only holds the creamy sauce beautifully but also adds a charming visual element to the plate. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this ensures the pasta will cook evenly and have great flavor. Once the water is boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.

Here’s the little twist: As the pasta nears its final 3 minutes of cooking time, drop in the asparagus pieces. This allows them to cook just enough so they remain crisp-tender and vibrant, but not overdone. It’s the perfect way to incorporate fresh veggies without sacrificing texture or flavor. Once the pasta and asparagus are cooked, drain them well and set them aside. Keep an eye on the asparagus, as you want it to retain its bright green color and slight bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta and asparagus are cooking, we can start on the shrimp. Make sure to pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This step may seem small, but it’s essential for getting a nice sear on the shrimp. If the shrimp are too wet, they’ll release moisture while cooking, which can prevent that perfect golden color. Once they’re dry, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. You don’t need to overdo it here—the sauce will bring plenty of flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp to Perfection

Now it’s time to cook the shrimp. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. The combination of these two fats creates a rich base for the shrimp to cook in. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. You’ll want to give each shrimp enough space so they cook evenly.

Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. The shrimp should have a nice golden crust on the outside. Once they’re cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Don’t worry if the skillet looks a bit messy with browned bits—that’s all flavor we’ll use for the sauce!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. The butter will melt into the flavorful remnants left from cooking the shrimp, infusing the sauce with richness. Next, sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes. I recommend using fresh garlic because it adds an irresistible fragrance that really sets the stage for the sauce. If you like a little extra kick, this is the point where you can toss in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Now comes the magic ingredient—white wine. Pour it into the skillet, and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits left from the shrimp. Those bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to the sauce. Let the wine simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Shrimp and Sauce

Now that the sauce has reduced and taken on a lovely, aromatic flavor, it’s time to bring the shrimp back into the mix. Gently place the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat them evenly. The shrimp will absorb the deliciousness of the garlic and white wine sauce, adding even more flavor to their already succulent texture.

Next, squeeze in the juice of one fresh lemon. This is where the bright, tangy magic happens! The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter and adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. Stir everything together, ensuring the shrimp are fully coated in that gorgeous sauce.

If you’re using Parmesan cheese, now is the time to stir it in. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating an even creamier texture and an extra layer of flavor. Don’t feel obligated to add it if you’re looking for a lighter option, but it does bring a nice umami boost to the dish. Also, don’t forget the parsley! Add in a handful of freshly chopped parsley to finish off the sauce. The parsley brings a touch of freshness and color to the dish, making it visually appealing as well as flavorful.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp

Now comes the fun part—combining everything! Add the drained bowtie pasta and asparagus to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Use tongs or a spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the creamy, garlicky sauce. The pasta will soak up all the wonderful flavors, and the asparagus will add a nice contrast in both color and texture.

If the sauce feels a little thick at this point, you can always add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. The starchy water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta and creates a smooth, cohesive dish. But most of the time, the sauce will be just the right consistency—creamy but not too heavy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is combined, it’s time to serve this delightful dish. Spoon the pasta into bowls or onto plates, and garnish with a little more fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. This pasta dish is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.

The best part of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a light, refreshing meal on a sunny afternoon, or as a cozy, comforting dinner on a chilly evening. Either way, it’s sure to impress.

Now that we’ve covered all the steps to create this delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta, let’s move on to some helpful tips and FAQs that will answer any questions you may have as you prepare this dish in your own kitchen.

Tips for Perfecting This Dish

1. Shrimp Size Matters: I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. They hold up well in the sauce and provide a meaty texture. If you’re using smaller shrimp, be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking them.

2. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this dish a robust, aromatic flavor that pre-minced garlic just can’t match. It makes all the difference in the sauce!

3. Asparagus Texture: If you’re worried about the asparagus being too crunchy or too soft, remember it will finish cooking in the sauce when combined with the pasta. Aim for it to be just tender when you add it to the water, as it will continue to soften once it’s mixed in with the pasta and sauce.

4. Make It Your Own: Don’t be afraid to get creative with this dish! If you want to add a bit more flavor or texture, consider tossing in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even spinach for an extra pop of color. If you’re not in the mood for asparagus, broccoli or green beans could work just as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While I love using bowtie pasta (farfalle) because it holds the creamy sauce so well, you can easily swap it for any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti would all work wonderfully in this dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the type of pasta you choose.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking them, as frozen shrimp may release excess water when cooked, which can affect the final texture. To thaw frozen shrimp, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it a few hours in advance if needed. Store the pasta and shrimp separately, and then reheat them in a skillet with a splash of water to bring the sauce back to life. Keep in mind that pasta can sometimes absorb too much sauce if left to sit for too long, so you might need to adjust the sauce consistency when reheating.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a little heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can start with a pinch and taste the sauce before adding more, depending on your spice preference. Another option is to add a few dashes of hot sauce to the finished dish for an extra kick!

Can I use a different vegetable instead of asparagus?

Yes! While asparagus pairs beautifully with the creamy shrimp and pasta, there are several other vegetables you can use. Broccoli, spinach, or peas would work wonderfully as substitutes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable to ensure it stays tender but not overcooked.

Can I add more cream to the sauce for extra richness?

If you’re looking for an extra creamy texture, you can definitely add a little heavy cream to the sauce. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust as needed for your desired richness. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the dish, as the garlic and lemon are meant to shine through.

Conclusion

There you have it—Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the perfect dish for when you want something fresh, flavorful, and impressively easy to make. The combination of juicy shrimp, vibrant asparagus, and a tangy, creamy sauce makes this a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite pasta, veggies, or even a dash of spice.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and enjoy creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. And remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting—don’t hesitate to try your own variations and share them with us in the comments below!