If you are craving a dish that is vibrant, quick to whip up, and packed with fresh flavors, then this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender, juicy shrimp with crisp asparagus tossed in a garlicky, gingery sauce, this recipe brings out a perfect balance of heat, umami, and freshness that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this stir fry delivers big flavor in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are surprisingly simple yet essential to capture the vibrant taste and satisfying texture that make this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe truly special. Each element plays a role, from the buttery avocado oil to the zesty ginger, crafting a harmonious dish that sings with flavor.
- 2½ tablespoons avocado oil: A neutral, high-heat oil that ensures your shrimp and asparagus cook evenly without sticking.
- 1 pound 16/20 count shrimp (deveined and deshelled): Fresh or thawed shrimp add a delightful, tender protein element that cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with veggies.
- 1 pound asparagus (cut diagonally): Provides a satisfying crunch and fresh, green taste to brighten the dish.
- 1½ tablespoons minced ginger: Adds a warm, spicy undertone that awakens the senses.
- 1½ tablespoons minced garlic: Brings savory depth and aromatic richness.
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Just enough heat to gently tease the palate without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal recommended): Enhances all the flavors naturally.
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon oyster sauce: Gives the dish a luscious umami boost and slightly sweet savoriness.
- ¼ cup water: Helps create a light sauce to mingle all ingredients together.
- Jasmine rice: The perfect aromatic base to serve alongside and soak up every last bit of sauce.
How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until fragrant and golden. This step lays the flavorful foundation for the entire stir fry, releasing that irresistible garlicky aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the shrimp, red chili flakes, and Kosher salt to the wok. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink but are still slightly undercooked — this prevents overcooking later. Then, scoop out the shrimp and garlic mixture and set it aside in a bowl. Trust me, keeping the shrimp juicy and tender makes all the difference.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Asparagus and Ginger
In the same wok, pour in the remaining 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil along with the minced ginger. Cook the ginger for one minute until its fragrant oils bloom. Then, toss in the diagonally cut asparagus. Keep the asparagus moving by stirring constantly for 2 minutes to ensure it stays crisp-tender — this quick sauté preserves its vibrant color and satisfying snap. Afterward, return the shrimp and garlic mixture to the pan and cook together for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Sauce and Liquid
Pour in the oyster sauce and ¼ cup of water to create a glossy, flavorful sauce that brings everything together. Cook the mixture until the liquid slightly reduces, allowing the sauce to coat every bit of shrimp and asparagus evenly. Give the asparagus a quick taste to check for perfect texture, and it’s ready to plate. Serve your stir fry immediately over steaming jasmine rice for the ultimate comfort meal.
How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes can elevate this dish from simple to spectacular. Freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add a pop of color and subtle crunch. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can make the flavors truly sing and add a hint of zesty contrast.
Side Dishes
While jasmine rice is the classic and best-loved pairing, you can also serve this stir fry with noodles, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. A simple side of steamed or stir-fried bok choy or snap peas would also bring in more greens and keep the meal fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or treat yourself, try serving this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe in a pineapple boat or atop crispy wonton chips for added texture. Another fun twist is to spoon it into lettuce wraps for a handheld delight that’s fresh and flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because shrimp and asparagus are best fresh, try to enjoy your stir fry soon after making it to savor the best textures and flavors.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not recommended as asparagus tends to become mushy and the shrimp may lose their ideal texture. For best results, freeze components like cooked shrimp separately if needed and add freshly cooked asparagus when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep things moist. Avoid overheating shrimp to prevent toughening. Reheating quickly and carefully preserves the integrity of this delightful Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the stir fry. Properly handled frozen shrimp work wonderfully for this recipe.
Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?
Yes, you can use soy sauce combined with a touch of hoisin sauce or mushroom stir-fry sauce as a close alternative if you’re avoiding oyster sauce. This will keep the umami flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To turn up the heat, add more red chili flakes, or include some sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking. A drizzle of chili oil at the end is another fantastic way to add an extra kick.
What should I do if I don’t have a wok?
A large skillet or frying pan works just as well for this recipe. The key is to cook over medium-high heat while constantly stirring to mimic the quick, high-heat cooking style of a wok.
Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Definitely! Broccoli, snap peas, or green beans are excellent alternatives that also provide crunch and freshness, keeping the delightful texture contrast in this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients come together to create something truly delicious and satisfying. It’s fast enough for hectic nights, yet impressive enough to share with family and friends. I encourage you to give it a try and discover just how easily you can elevate your weeknight dinners with this fresh, vibrant, and utterly tasty stir fry.
Print
Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 2.2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Juicy shrimp are sautéed with fresh asparagus, garlic, ginger, and a hint of red chili flakes, then finished with oyster sauce for a savory glaze. Served alongside jasmine rice, this stir fry balances protein and vegetables in a light, easy-to-make meal packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 2½ tablespoons avocado oil, divided
- 1 pound 16/20 count shrimp, deveined and deshelled
- 1 pound asparagus, cut diagonally into 1½ inch pieces, bottom 1 inch discarded
- 1½ tablespoons ginger, minced
- 1½ tablespoons garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand), plus more to taste
Sauce and Accompaniments
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- ¼ cup water
- Jasmine rice, cooked, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic and Sauté: Heat 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp, red chili flakes, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to the wok. Stir-fry the shrimp until they turn pink and are slightly undercooked, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp and garlic mixture from the wok and set aside in a bowl.
- Cook Asparagus and Ginger: In the same wok over medium-high heat, add the remaining 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil and the minced ginger. Stir-fry for one minute to release its aroma. Add the asparagus pieces and continuously stir for 2 minutes until they are bright and crisp-tender.
- Combine and Finish Sauce: Return the shrimp and garlic mixture to the wok with the asparagus. Stir in the oyster sauce and ¼ cup of water. Cook together while stirring until the liquid slightly reduces, about 2 minutes. Check the asparagus for desired texture and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp and asparagus stir fry immediately over freshly cooked jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain their tender texture.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use Diamond Crystal kosher salt if possible for accurate seasoning measurements.
- This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or any light whole grain.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute oyster sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
