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If you are craving a vibrant dish that effortlessly blends fresh flavors and satisfying textures, this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines succulent shrimp and crisp-tender asparagus with fragrant garlic and ginger, all brought together by a savory oyster sauce. Quick to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect when you want something nourishing, colorful, and downright delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the dish’s balanced profile, from the bright bite of fresh asparagus to the silky richness of oyster sauce and the peppery warmth of chili flakes.
- 2½ tablespoons avocado oil, split: This oil’s high smoke point is perfect for quick, hot stir-frying without burning, adding a subtle nutty flavor.
- 1 pound 16/20 count shrimp, deveined and deshelled: Fresh, medium-sized shrimp provide juicy sweetness and a tender seafood bite.
- 1 pound asparagus, 1½ inch diagonal cut, bottom 1 inch removed and discarded: Crisp and green, asparagus offers a refreshing crunch and lovely color contrast.
- 1½ tablespoons ginger, minced: Ginger adds a subtle spicy warmth that brightens the entire dish.
- 1½ tablespoons garlic, minced: Garlic’s rich aroma is essential, infusing the oil and shrimp with unmistakable depth.
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: A hint of heat gives the stir fry personality and balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand), plus more to taste: Salt enhances all other flavors without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon oyster sauce: This sauce is the umami powerhouse that gives the dish a savory, slightly sweet finish.
- ¼ cup water: Added to create a bit of steam and help meld the sauce with the vegetables and shrimp.
- Jasmine rice: The ideal fluffy and fragrant base that soaks up every bit of sauce.
How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Begin by heating 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it releases its intoxicating aroma. This step lays the flavor foundation by infusing the oil with garlic’s rich essence—an absolute must for a memorable stir fry.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, toss in the shrimp along with red chili flakes and salt. Stir constantly and cook until the shrimp turn a lovely shade of pink, about 2 to 3 minutes, but stop just before they’re fully cooked through to avoid rubberiness. Remove the shrimp and garlic mixture from the wok and set it aside in a bowl. Keeping the shrimp tender here will pay off in flavor and texture later.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Asparagus and Ginger
Return to medium-high heat and add the remaining 1¼ tablespoons of avocado oil along with the minced ginger. Let the ginger cook for one minute to unlock its warm zestiness. Then introduce the asparagus, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes so it turns bright green and stays crisp-tender. This quick cooking preserves freshness while coating the veggies with aromatic heat.
Step 4: Combine and Finish with Sauce
Return the shrimp and garlic back to the wok with the asparagus. Pour in the oyster sauce and ¼ cup of water, stirring well to combine. Simmer gently until the liquid reduces slightly, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat each ingredient beautifully. Give the asparagus a quick taste to confirm it’s tender but still has a pleasant bite. Serve this golden-hued, savory stir fry immediately over a bed of perfectly cooked jasmine rice for a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add fresh layers of flavor, scatter thinly sliced green onions or chopped fresh cilantro across the top just before serving. Toasted sesame seeds are also a delightful crunchy garnish that complements the dish’s Asian-inspired vibe. A few lime wedges on the side add bright acidity if desired.
Side Dishes
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe stands beautifully on its own with jasmine rice, but you can also serve it alongside quick pickled cucumbers or a light Asian slaw to introduce contrasting textures and coolness. For a heartier meal, steamed edamame or miso soup make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the stir fry inside hollowed-out bell peppers or atop a bed of spiralized noodles. It also works brilliantly as a filling for lettuce wraps, turning it into a finger food party. No matter how you plate it, the vibrant colors and flavorful sauce will steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The shrimp and asparagus retain their texture nicely when properly chilled, but it’s best to enjoy the dish fresh for maximum flavor and vitality.
Freezing
Freezing this stir fry is possible but not ideal since asparagus can become mushy upon thawing. If you do freeze leftovers, pack them tightly in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to preserve texture. Add a splash of water or a light drizzle of oil to revive the sauce’s silkiness and heat just until warmed through. This approach keeps the shrimp tender and the asparagus lively.
FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for this stir fry?
Using fresh or thawed 16/20 count shrimp works best because their medium size cooks evenly and stays juicy. Larger shrimp can be used but may need adjustments in cooking time to prevent toughness.
Can I use frozen asparagus for the stir fry?
Fresh asparagus is preferred for its crispness and vibrant color. Frozen asparagus tends to lose crunch and can become watery when stir-fried, though it can be substituted in a pinch if thoroughly drained and patted dry.
Is oyster sauce necessary, and can it be substituted?
Oyster sauce is key for the umami depth in this recipe. If you need a substitute, hoisin sauce or mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce can work, but the flavor will be somewhat different.
How spicy is this stir fry?
The red chili flakes add a gentle warmth but nothing overpowering. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or leaving them out entirely, tailoring the dish to your spice preferences.
Can I prepare this recipe for more servings?
Absolutely. This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe scales well. Just remember to keep your wok or pan warm and don’t overcrowd the ingredients to maintain the perfect sear and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe is a delightful weeknight meal that feels special without requiring a complicated process. Its fresh ingredients and bold flavors come together in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. I highly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find it becoming a new favorite in your cooking rotation!
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