Ready for a speedy, flavor-packed dinner that looks and tastes gourmet but takes barely 20 minutes from start to finish? This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is my go-to when I want something both fresh and satisfyingly savory, with tender-crisp asparagus, succulent shrimp, and a gently spicy, garlicky glaze. Trust me, you’ll want this one again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Fast: You can have this shrimp and asparagus stir fry on the table in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and oyster sauce delivers that craveable takeout taste, all in your own kitchen.
- Bright and Nutritious: With juicy shrimp and crisp-tender asparagus, it’s a vibrant meal loaded with protein and veggies.
- One Pan, Minimal Mess: Everything cooks up in a single wok or skillet, making cleanup a cinch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is all about a handful of quality ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Each element—from plump shrimp to peppery ginger—plays a deliciously important role in creating layers of taste, color, and texture in every bite!
- Avocado oil: Its high smoke point keeps everything sizzling without burning and adds a subtle richness.
- 16/20 count shrimp (deveined and deshelled): These larger shrimp stay juicy and tender, plus they cook up in a flash.
- Asparagus (diagonal cut, ends trimmed): For a little crunch and fresh, grassy flavor in every forkful—cutting them on a bias means prettier presentation and more surface area to soak up the sauce.
- Ginger (minced): Brings warmth and zing that perks up every bite.
- Garlic (minced): Essential for that mouthwatering aroma and depth of taste.
- Red chili flakes: Adds gentle heat—feel free to adjust more or less to your spice level!
- Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand): Seasons the dish without overpowering the delicate balance.
- Oyster sauce: The sweet-savory secret that creates that glossy, craveable finish.
- Water: A splash helps the sauce come together and delicately steam the veggies.
- Jasmine rice (for serving): Its floral aroma and fluffiness are the perfect backdrop for the saucy stir fry.
Variations
One of the joys of stir fry is just how adaptable it can be! Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is endlessly customizable—swap out veggies, dial up the heat, or try a different protein for a fresh twist whenever the craving strikes.
- Swap in chicken or tofu: Not into shrimp? Cubed chicken breast or extra-firm tofu both work beautifully here—just adjust cook time as needed.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas: For even more crunch and color, toss in sliced red bell pepper or a handful of snap peas with the asparagus.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free oyster sauce or substitute with tamari and a touch of honey for a similar saucy effect.
- Kick up the spice: Double the chili flakes or drizzle with sriracha if you’re craving extra heat.
How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
Start by heating half the avocado oil in your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute—just until fragrant, not browned. Toss in the shrimp along with the chili flakes and salt, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp just turn pink and are slightly underdone (they’ll finish cooking later). Scoop both shrimp and garlicky oil into a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ginger and Asparagus
With your pan still hot, add the remaining avocado oil and as soon as it shimmers, add the minced ginger. Sauté for one aromatic minute. Slide in the asparagus pieces and stir constantly for about 2 minutes—they should start to brighten in color and feel just slightly softened.
Step 3: Combine and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp and garlic to the wok with the asparagus and ginger. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld and the shrimp are juicy and perfectly opaque. Pour in the oyster sauce and water, letting everything bubble for a minute or two until the sauce slightly reduces and coats the stir fry. Taste and check your asparagus—you’re looking for that ideal tender-crisp texture, not mushy!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Turn off the heat and serve your piping hot Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry immediately, spooned over fresh, fluffy jasmine rice. Present it right out of the wok for a homey, shareable meal, or plate it up with a pretty garnish for extra flair!
Pro Tips for Making Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry
- Go Big on Heat: Cook over medium-high heat for a perfect char on asparagus and quick, juicy shrimp—don’t crowd the pan!
- Stir Fry Sequence: Remove the shrimp just before they’re done; this keeps them plump and avoids overcooking when they finish in the sauce.
- Diagonal Cutting for Asparagus: Cut the asparagus on a diagonal for quick, even cooking and beautiful restaurant-style presentation.
- Fresh Aromatics Matter: Use freshly minced ginger and garlic—jarred versions just can’t compete with the brightness these bring!
How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry
Garnishes
Garnish ideas? Think a quick sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for nutty crunch, thinly sliced green onions for color and freshness, or a squeeze of fresh lime if you love a zesty finish. They’re each little touches that instantly make your stir fry pop.
Side Dishes
While Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is fabulous on its own over a scoop of jasmine rice, it also pairs beautifully with simple steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or a quick miso soup for a rounded, takeout-style spread at home.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive dinner, serve the stir fry in a large shallow bowl in the center of the table so everyone can help themselves, family-style. Or, spoon into individual rice bowls and top each serving with a delicate fan of asparagus tips for a restaurant-worthy look. Serving in lettuce cups is perfect for a light appetizer spread too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry tasting its best, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to two days—though, honestly, it’s so delicious you might not have much left!
Freezing
While you technically can freeze leftovers, the asparagus may lose its snappy texture when thawed, and the shrimp can get a bit rubbery. For the absolute best flavor and bite, I recommend enjoying this dish fresh or within a couple of days from the fridge.
Reheating
When it’s time to reheat, gently warm your stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring just until everything’s heated through. A quick splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce if it’s thickened up in the fridge—be careful not to overcook so your shrimp stay tender!
FAQs
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Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking—this ensures they sear nicely and don’t release too much moisture into your stir fry.
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What can I substitute for oyster sauce if I don’t have any?
You can use soy sauce with a little brown sugar, Hoisin sauce, or even a gluten-free alternative in place of oyster sauce—just note that each sub will bring its own twist to the final flavor!
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How do I keep the asparagus bright green and crisp?
The trick is to cook the asparagus quickly over high heat and to avoid overcooking—keep it to just 2–3 minutes, and check often for that perfect tender-crisp bite.
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Can this recipe be doubled for meal prep or a crowd?
Yes! Just be mindful not to overcrowd your pan; stir fry in batches if needed to keep everything sizzling and avoid steaming, which keeps the veggies crisp and the shrimp tender.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry brings a spark of joy (and deliciousness!) to your dinner routine. It’s the kind of satisfying, speedy meal that feels like an indulgence but fits right into the busiest night. Give it a try—you just might find it becoming your new favorite weeknight hero!
Print
Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
Description
A quick and flavorful Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp and crisp asparagus are stir-fried in a savory sauce, served with fragrant jasmine rice.
Ingredients
For Stir-Fry:
- 2 1/2 tablespoons avocado oil, split
- 1 pound 16/20 count shrimp, deveined and deshelled
- 1 pound asparagus, 1 1/2 inch diagonal cut and bottom 1 inch removed and discarded
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger, minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand), plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup water
For Serving:
- Jasmine rice
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: In a wok or skillet over medium-high heat, add 1¼ tablespoons avocado oil and sauté garlic for one minute.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp, red chili flakes, and salt. Cook until shrimp are pink (about 2-3 minutes) and slightly undercooked. Remove shrimp and garlic from wok and place in a bowl. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry Asparagus: Over medium-high heat, add remaining 1¼ tablespoons avocado oil and ginger to wok. Cook for one minute then add asparagus. Stir constantly for 2 minutes. Return shrimp mixture to wok and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add Sauce: Add oyster sauce and ¼ cup water. Cook until liquid slightly reduces. Test asparagus for desired texture.
- Serve: Serve immediately with jasmine rice.
