| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 15g | 2g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 30g | 1.2g |
When I first created the Asparagus and Shrimp Stir Fry, I was aiming for delicious versatility with a health-forward focus. After exploring and experimenting in my Rocky Mountain kitchen, this delightful concoction came to life, combining the rich, hearty flavor of succulent shrimp and the vibrant, crisp crunch of asparagus. This recipe’s delicate balance of ingredients delivers a dish that is wonderfully satisfying, teeming with flavor, and beneficial for your health.
The Magic Behind the Mix
One of the reasons why I adore the Asparagus and Shrimp Stir Fry is its dynamic ensemble of ingredients. Each component brings its own unique flavor, but when combined, they create a beautiful and invigorating symphony of taste that echoes the fresh, earthy feel of my Rocky Mountains hometown. The aromatic garlic, the warming ginger, and the zesty lemon juice excite the palate, while the peppers and red pepper flakes add a delightful, optional heat. Lastly, the oyster sauce and soy sauce introduce an authentic Oriental note that completes the culinary journey.
Harmony of Health and Flavor
This is a dish you can feel good about. Shrimp, in particular, are packed with protein but low in calories. They’re an excellent source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and promote heart health. Meanwhile, asparagus is abundant in fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K, and it’s known to support digestive health. The myriad of colorful vegetables not only boosts the flavor profile but also enriches the dish with additional health benefits. Learn more about the benefits of shrimp here or click here to delve into the wonders of asparagus for your health.
The Asparagus and Shrimp Stir Fry inherently has a similar vibe to a majority of Asian cuisine, particularly with its flavor-rich, vegetable-forward approach. It could work magic alongside dishes such as Mongolian beef or a simple lo mein, proving a perfect companion when you’re aiming for an Asian culinary themed night.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or crafting a nutritious, delicious meal for yourself and your partner Gordon, this recipe brings the warmth and comfort of a hearty seafood dish with an upscale gourmet twist. It reminds me of the limitless possibilities that come when you curate ingredients with intention and love.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 bunches of fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Rice or noodles, for serving
Method
Step One
Firstly, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant or slightly brown.
Step Two
Then, add the shrimp to the pan or wok. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimps turn pink. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan or wok and set it aside.
Step Three
In the same pan or wok, add the asparagus and bell pepper slices. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until the asparagus is crisp-tender and the bell peppers are soft. Then, add the green onions and cook for another minute.
Step Four
At this stage, get a small bowl and mix together the soy sauce, water, oyster sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. This will be your stir-fry sauce.
Step Five
Pour the prepared sauce over the asparagus and bell peppers in the pan. Toss everything together to ensure that the veggies are coated with the sauce. Cook for about a minute more until the sauce has thickened.
Step Six
Next, add the cooked shrimp back into the pan or wok. Continue to stir everything together so that the shrimp is coated with the sauce. Sprinkle with the red pepper flakes, if using, and toss everything together.
Step Seven
Finally, drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the stir-fry and give everything a final toss. Remove the pan from the heat.
Step Eight
Serve the Asparagus and Shrimp Stir Fry over rice or noodles, as per your preference. Enjoy!
