If you love dishes that are quick, vibrant, and packed with flavor, you are in for a treat with this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy shrimp with crisp-tender asparagus, all harmonized by a savory blend of garlic, ginger, and oyster sauce. The subtle kick from red chili flakes brings just the right amount of excitement, making it an irresistible meal that feels both fresh and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or anytime you crave something wholesome and satisfying, this stir fry hits all the right notes in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in crafting the bright, balanced taste and wonderful texture of this stir fry. From the richness of avocado oil to the fresh snap of asparagus and the perfectly seasoned shrimp, every component contributes to a symphony of flavors and colors on your plate.
- Avocado oil (2½ tablespoons, split): Its high smoke point and mild flavor make it perfect for stir-frying without overpowering the dish.
- Shrimp (1 pound, 16/20 count, deveined and deshelled): Use fresh or thawed shrimp for sweetness and a tender bite.
- Asparagus (1 pound, cut diagonally 1½ inches, bottom 1 inch discarded): Provides a crunchy texture and fresh green color, essential for balance.
- Ginger (1½ tablespoons, minced): Adds a warm, zesty aroma that lifts the whole dish.
- Garlic (1½ tablespoons, minced): Delivers a savory backbone and depth of flavor.
- Red chili flakes (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to wake up your palate without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon, plus more to taste): Seasoning that enhances every ingredient’s natural goodness.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon): Brings umami richness and a subtle sweetness that glazes the shrimp and asparagus beautifully.
- Water (¼ cup): Helps reduce the sauce and steams the vegetables to perfect tenderness.
- Jasmine rice: The fragrant, fluffy base that completes this meal.
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. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté it for a full minute. This step is essential to infuse the oil with that rich garlicky aroma that will coat every ingredient and make your kitchen smell fantastic.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, toss in the shrimp along with the red chili flakes and kosher salt. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink but are still slightly translucent in the center, about 2 to 3 minutes. This keeps them tender and juicy instead of rubbery. Once done, transfer the shrimp and garlic mixture to a bowl and set aside for later.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Asparagus
Using the same wok, pour in the remaining 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil and add the minced ginger. Stir it around for about a minute until fragrant. Then add the asparagus pieces. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to keep them crisp-tender and brilliantly green. At this stage, your kitchen will be filled with fresh, vibrant scents that hint at the deliciousness that’s nearly ready.
Step 4: Combine and Finish the Dish
Return the shrimp and garlic mixture to the wok with the asparagus. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to marry the flavors. Finally, add the oyster sauce and ¼ cup of water, letting the liquid reduce slightly so it thickens into a luscious glaze. Taste the asparagus to make sure it’s just tender and adjust salt if needed. Serve piping hot over fluffy jasmine rice.
How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing beats a simple, fresh garnish for this dish. Try tossing on some thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add a touch of crunch and a burst of visual appeal. A wedge of lime on the side also brightens the dish beautifully if you like a little citrus kick.
Side Dishes
Because this stir fry is light yet satisfying, pairing it with a simple side works best. Steamed jasmine rice is the classic choice and complements the flavors perfectly. If you want to add more veggies, a crisp Asian slaw or a steamed bun with hoisin sauce can round out the meal wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry in hollowed-out bell peppers or atop a bed of cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Alternatively, plate it in individual bowls layered with freshly cooked rice and garnish each with a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil to elevate the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The asparagus stays crisp-tender and the shrimp remain juicy if stored promptly, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the asparagus might soften too much upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider omitting the asparagus and adding fresh when reheating. Freeze the shrimp and sauce mixture separately in a freezer-safe container for up to one month.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oyster sauce if the mixture seems dry. Stir frequently to heat evenly without overcooking the shrimp, preserving its tender texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent a nice sear.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce if I don’t have it?
You can replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a little sugar, but be mindful that the flavor will be slightly different as oyster sauce has a unique umami depth.
Is asparagus the only vegetable that works well in this stir fry?
Not at all! While asparagus brings a lovely crunch and brightness, you can also try substituting broccolini, green beans, or snap peas to keep things fresh and exciting.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap shrimp for firm tofu or tempeh and replace oyster sauce with a vegetarian stir-fry sauce to keep it delicious and meat-free.
How spicy is the dish with ¼ teaspoon of red chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a subtle warmth that enhances the flavors without overwhelming them. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that never feels boring. With each bite bursting with fresh ingredients and bold seasoning, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try next time you want a fuss-free dinner that feels like a special treat!
Print
Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful shrimp and asparagus stir fry combining tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and a savory ginger-garlic sauce, perfect served over fragrant jasmine rice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2½ tablespoons avocado oil, split
- 1 pound 16/20 count shrimp, deveined and deshelled
- 1 pound asparagus, 1½ inch diagonal cut, bottom 1 inch removed and 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
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- ¼ cup water
- Jasmine rice, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp, red chili flakes, and kosher salt to the wok. Stir and cook the shrimp until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes, leaving them slightly undercooked for best texture. Remove the shrimp and garlic mixture from the wok and set aside in a bowl.
- Stir-Fry Asparagus: Add the remaining 1¼ tablespoons avocado oil and minced ginger to the wok over medium-high heat. Cook for one minute until fragrant, then add the asparagus pieces. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to ensure even cooking and retain crispness.
- Combine and Finish: Return the shrimp and garlic mixture to the wok with the asparagus. Add 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon oyster sauce and ¼ cup water. Stir and cook until the liquid slightly reduces and the shrimp finish cooking, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Serve: Plate the shrimp and asparagus stir fry immediately and serve hot with jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly before cooking.
- Adjust the red chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Oyster sauce adds a savory umami flavor; if you need a vegetarian version, substitute with mushroom soy sauce.
- Do not overcook the asparagus to maintain a tender-crisp texture.
- Jasmine rice pairs well due to its fragrant and slightly sticky nature, but you can use other rice varieties if preferred.
