This easy shrimp and asparagus stir fry is a light and tasty dish! It features fresh shrimp and crisp asparagus, all cooked quickly in a savory sauce. Perfect for busy nights!
Cooking this stir fry is a breeze! Just toss everything in the pan, and in no time, you’ll have a colorful meal. I love serving it over rice—it soaks up all the yummy flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If shrimp isn’t available, try using chicken or firm tofu for a different protein option.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds great crunch and flavor. If you can’t find it, snap peas or broccoli work well as substitutes, keeping the dish colorful and nutritious.
Oil: Olive oil or sesame oil adds nice richness. I prefer sesame oil for its distinct flavor, but you can use any oil you have on hand—avoid strong-flavored oils like extra virgin for this stir fry.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier option. If needed, substitute with tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Stir-Fry Texture?
Achieving the right texture is key in stir frying! Start with a hot skillet or wok—it ensures the shrimp and veggies cook quickly without getting mushy.
- Use high heat and work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque in just a few minutes.
- Stir-fry the asparagus until it’s tender-crisp—this keeps it vibrant and crunchy.
With these tips, your stir fry will be delicious every time! Enjoy your meal.
Easy Healthy Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked jasmine or brown rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stir-fry recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of active cooking time. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch slurry if you’re using it for thickening. This sauce brings all the flavors together, so set it aside while you cook!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp, season them lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until they turn pink and are cooked through. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Ginger:
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, and when it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for around 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—but be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Asparagus:
Now, add the asparagus pieces to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. This will keep them bright green and crunchy!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and asparagus, then toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the shrimp and veggies nicely.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your stir fry and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Remove it from the heat, and if you’d like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for garnish.
7. Serve:
Serve the shrimp and asparagus stir fry hot over a bed of cooked jasmine or brown rice. Enjoy your meal!
This dish is not only healthy and quick, but it’s also packed with flavor and color. Enjoy your delightful shrimp and asparagus stir fry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent extra moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, you can replace it with snap peas, broccoli, or even bell peppers. Just ensure that you’re cutting them to a similar size so they cook evenly!
Can I Make This Stir Fry in Advance?
While stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the veggies and marinate the shrimp in the sauce. Store them separately in the fridge and cook within 24 hours for the best quality.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out!
