Description
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is a quick, healthy meal featuring tender shrimp and crisp asparagus tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions with a flavorful blend of soy and oyster sauces. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delicious Asian-inspired main course that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood and Vegetables
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Sauces and Oils
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Other
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set this flavorful mixture aside for later use.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Stir-fry the asparagus and aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Stir-fry the asparagus pieces for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Then add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced green onions, cooking for another minute until fragrant and well combined.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds, and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Asparagus can be substituted with broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers based on preference or availability.
- To lighten the dish, reduce the amounts of soy sauce and honey.
- This recipe cooks very quickly, so ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking.
