Stir-Fried Asparagus with Shrimp is a fresh, flavorful dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. It combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the crisp-tender bite of asparagus and the earthy depth of mushrooms. A light, savory sauce ties everything together, coating each ingredient with just the right balance of saltiness and umami.
This is the kind of meal that proves healthy food can be both satisfying and delicious. The vegetables retain their bright color and natural crunch, while the shrimp cook to tender perfection in just minutes. The sauce, made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of white pepper, brings a subtle warmth that complements the fresh flavors without overpowering them.
Ingredients you will need
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Step 1: Preparing the shrimp
In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with a pinch of salt, a dash of white pepper, and a teaspoon of cooking oil. This quick marinade enhances the shrimp’s flavor and helps keep them tender. Set aside for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Blanching the asparagus
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the asparagus and blanch for 1 to 2 minutes, just until they turn a vibrant green and become slightly tender. Drain immediately and set aside. This step helps lock in the color and ensures the asparagus will be perfectly cooked after stir-frying.
Step 3: Mixing the sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and white pepper. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth. This mixture will give the stir-fry its glossy finish and savory depth.
Step 4: Stir-frying the aromatics
Heat the remaining cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. The aroma at this stage sets the foundation for the dish’s flavor.
Step 5: Cooking the shrimp
Add the shrimp to the wok and stir-fry until they turn pink and are almost cooked through. This should take only 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Cooking the vegetables
In the same wok, add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry until they soften and release their moisture. This creates a rich, savory base that complements the asparagus.
Step 7: Bringing it all together
Return the shrimp to the wok along with the blanched asparagus. Give the prepared sauce a quick stir, then pour it into the wok. Toss everything together, cooking for another minute or two until the sauce thickens slightly and coats all the ingredients evenly.
Step 8: Serving
Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and enjoy it while hot. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, or for a lighter option, you can serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple salad.
Tips for success
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, but if you use frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
Don’t overcook the asparagus during blanching; it should be slightly underdone so it finishes cooking in the wok without becoming mushy.
A splash of rice wine or sesame oil at the end can add extra depth to the dish.
Final thoughts
Stir-Fried Asparagus with Shrimp is proof that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create a meal that is fresh, nourishing, and full of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, light yet satisfying, and versatile enough to enjoy as a main course or part of a larger spread. With just a few basic pantry staples and fresh produce, you can have a restaurant-quality stir-fry on the table in less than 30 minutes.