Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry

This shrimp and asparagus stir fry caught my attention because it is both simple and healthy. I am a huge fan of shrimp/prawns and have shared many recipes in the past. A family favorite is Filipino Camaron Rebosado, which I would cook often when my kids were growing up. However, camaron is deep fried and so I would only make it on special occasions. The same thing cannot be said about this healthy stir fry dish! With under 300 calories per serving and low in carbs, I would consider this dish to be healthy.
To make this asparagus shrimp stir fry, the shrimp is first cooked in the skillet all the way through. Then, the shrimp is set aside while the asparagus is cooked until tender-crisp. After adding garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes, the shrimp is re-incorperated into the pan. Finally, soy sauce and lemon juice are mixed in. The result is a stir fry dish packed with flavor and color. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry

When making this stir fry, the timing of each ingredient is crucial. Start by prepping your shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water before cooking for about 15 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely in the pan. For the asparagus, choose fresh, vibrant stalks. Look for thin, tender asparagus for a quicker cooking time. If the stalks are thick, slice them in half lengthwise to ensure they cook evenly. When it comes to cooking, use a high smoke point oil like canola or avocado oil. This allows the shrimp to get a nice sear without burning. Cook the shrimp in a single layer in your skillet, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps them brown rather than steam. Lastly, for a flavor boost, consider marinating the shrimp in a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 15 to 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step deepens the taste and makes the dish even more enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This shrimp and asparagus stir fry can be enjoyed in various ways. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. If you want to add more veggies, bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can be great additions. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some vegetables may require longer to become tender. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider swapping soy sauce for teriyaki sauce or adding a splash of coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some sliced fresh chili or a dash of sriracha. This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and flavors. It’s a fantastic way to clean out the fridge while still enjoying a delicious, healthy meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this stir fry?

Frozen shrimp works great! Just make sure to thaw them in cold water for about 15 minutes and pat them dry before cooking to get that nice sear.

What can I substitute for asparagus?

If you can’t find asparagus, broccoli or snap peas are awesome alternatives. They both cook quickly and add a nice crunch to the dish.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat gently in a skillet to keep everything nice and tasty.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to cook this stir fry fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the asparagus and mince the garlic and ginger, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve this stir fry with?

This shrimp and asparagus stir fry pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You could also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry

Liza Agbanlog

Savor the vibrant crunch of asparagus paired with tender shrimp in this quick stir fry, all tossed in a zesty garlic and lemon sauce for a burst of flavor.

4.17 from 6 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 4 servings

Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lbs raw shrimp
• 1 lbs asparagus
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 clove of garlic minced
• 1 tsp ginger minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and season with salt, pepper and 1 tsp of red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp is pink, about 5 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.
• Using the same skillet, add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add the asparagus, ginger and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Stir frequently and cook until the asparagus is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
• Return the shrimp back to the skillet. Add the soy sauce and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Recipe source: Buzzfeed

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 30gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g

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