Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet
A bold, one-pan Cajun-inspired meal with caramelized shrimp and crispy asparagus, brightened by citrus and herbs. Ready in 30 minutes with no alcohol or pork, this dish balances smoky heat and freshness for a restaurant-quality weeknight feast.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing/Steaming
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Halal, Not Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 oz asparagus, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Cajun spice blend (smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, cumin, thyme)
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 cup vegetable stock
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Pat shrimp dry and sprinkle Cajun spice blend on both sides.
Sear shrimp, 2-3 minutes per side, until blackened crust forms. Remove shrimp from skillet.
Add asparagus to the skillet with vegetable stock. Cover, reduce heat, and steam 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
Return shrimp to skillet. Add garlic, oregano, thyme, pepper, and salt. Sauté 1-2 minutes.
Stir in lemon juice and hot sauce to taste. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Notes
Serve with brown rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Garlic can be roasted (1 clove split, pan-roasted 1 minute) for deeper flavor.
Optional: Add 1 tbsp chopped parsley before serving for freshness.