Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner option, these Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce are perfect for you. This dish combines succulent shrimp with crisp asparagus, all enveloped in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce. The best part? It’s cooked entirely in foil packs on the grill, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just need a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Overview of the Recipe
Shrimp and asparagus foil packs are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a seafood dinner with minimal fuss. The shrimp and asparagus are seasoned with garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of chicken broth for added moisture, then topped with cubes of butter that melt into a luscious sauce as everything cooks. Grilling the foil packs ensures the shrimp stay juicy and the asparagus remains tender-crisp.
History and Origin
Foil packet meals, also known as “hobo meals,” have been a staple in American camping cuisine for decades. They gained popularity for their simplicity and convenience, allowing for a variety of ingredients to be cooked together in a single packet. This method of cooking traces its origins to early outdoor and camping enthusiasts who sought easy ways to prepare complete meals over campfires. The combination of shrimp, a popular seafood choice, and asparagus, a seasonal vegetable, brings a modern twist to this classic cooking technique.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 Tbsp chicken broth
- 4 tsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 6 Tbsp butter, diced into small cubes
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 lb medium thickness asparagus, woody ends trimmed
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare Foil Sheets: Cut 4 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. This will ensure they are large enough to enclose the shrimp and asparagus completely.
- Divide Ingredients: Evenly divide the shrimp and asparagus among the four foil sheets, placing them in the center of each sheet.
- Season and Add Flavor: Drizzle 1/2 tablespoon of chicken broth over the shrimp and asparagus on each foil sheet. Then, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest over each. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add Butter: Evenly distribute the small cubes of butter over the shrimp and asparagus on each foil sheet.
- Wrap and Seal: Fold the sides of the foil over the shrimp and asparagus, then fold the top and bottom edges to seal the packets completely. Make sure they are well-sealed to keep the steam inside while grilling.
- Grill the Foil Packs: Place the foil packs on the preheated grill. Cook for 9-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Be careful when opening the packets, as the steam will be very hot.
- Finish with Lemon and Parsley: After removing the foil packs from the grill, carefully open them and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving
This recipe yields 4 servings. Each serving provides a delightful combination of tender shrimp and crisp asparagus, all smothered in a savory garlic lemon butter sauce. Serve the foil packs directly on plates, allowing each person to unwrap their own packet for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the meal perfectly.
- Beverages: Pair with a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage like sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a cold glass of iced tea.
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetable Variations: Swap out the asparagus for other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
- Herb Variations: Try adding other herbs like dill, basil, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
- Protein Variations: Substitute the shrimp with scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod or haddock.
Health Benefits
- Shrimp: Low in calories and high in protein, shrimp are also a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus.
- Asparagus: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, asparagus also provides fiber and folate, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic also contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
- Lemon: High in vitamin C, lemon juice adds a burst of flavor and helps enhance iron absorption from the meal.
FAQs
1. Can I bake these foil packs instead of grilling them? Yes, you can bake the foil packs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before using them in the recipe.
3. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked? The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
4. Can I prepare these foil packs ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the foil packs a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill them.
5. Can I use other types of seafood? Certainly! This recipe works well with scallops, chunks of fish, or even a mix of seafood.
Conclusion
Shrimp and Asparagus Foil Packs with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce are a fantastic meal option that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. This recipe highlights the fresh taste of shrimp and asparagus, enhanced by a rich, buttery sauce with hints of garlic and lemon. Perfect for grilling season or any time you want a quick and delicious dinner, these foil packs are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the convenience, flavor, and health benefits this dish offers, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit your taste.