Prepare the Ingredients:
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Trim the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces.
Mince the garlic and zest and juice the lemon.
Cook the Asparagus:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp.
Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and opaque.
Combine and Serve:
Return the asparagus to the skillet and toss with the shrimp until everything is well combined and heated through.
Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.