Name: Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, tails on; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 pound fresh asparagus spears; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium red sweet pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium red onion, cut into thin wedges; 2 cups sugar snap pea pods (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

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Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a light, flavorful, and colorful dinner that’s packed with fresh vegetables and tender shrimp. This quick-cooking Asian-inspired dish is perfect for weeknights when you need something healthy and satisfying on the table fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stir-fry is the perfect balance of fresh, vibrant produce and lean protein. It’s gluten-friendly, lower in calories, and naturally dairy-free. The crisp-tender asparagus and snap peas pair beautifully with juicy shrimp and a savory-sweet sesame-soy sauce. Best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

raw shrimp, peeled with tails on
salt and pepper
fresh asparagus spears
vegetable oil
fresh ginger, grated
garlic cloves, minced
red sweet pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
red onion, thinly wedged
sugar snap peas (fresh or frozen)
sesame seeds
reduced-sodium soy sauce
rice vinegar
brown sugar
toasted sesame oil
fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Cook the shrimp:
Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sauté shrimp for 3 to 5 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from wok and set aside.
Prep the asparagus:
Snap off and discard the woody ends. Cut diagonally into 2-inch pieces.
Stir-fry the vegetables:
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Stir in ginger and garlic and cook for 15 seconds. Add asparagus, red pepper, and red onion. Cook and stir for about 3 minutes.
Add snap peas and seeds:
Toss in sugar snap peas and sesame seeds. Continue cooking and stirring for 3–4 more minutes, until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Make the sauce and combine:
Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Return shrimp to the wok and toss everything gently to coat.
Finish and serve:
Stir in chopped cilantro. Serve warm using a slotted spoon to leave excess liquid behind.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Swap the veggies: Try green beans, broccoli, or baby corn in place of the asparagus or snap peas.
Try another protein: Substitute shrimp with sliced chicken breast or tofu.
Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or on its own.
Add noodles or rice: Serve it over jasmine rice or toss with soba or rice noodles.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until hot, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
To freeze: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid rubbery shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the wok.

Do I have to use a wok?

No. A large nonstick or cast iron skillet works just as well for stir-frying.

What’s the best way to prep asparagus?

Snap off the tough ends and slice diagonally for quick cooking and an elegant look.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the shrimp and substitute with tofu, edamame, or extra vegetables.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, especially if you like your stir-fry saucier or plan to serve it over rice or noodles.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep this recipe gluten-free.

What’s a good substitute for sesame oil?

You can use a light drizzle of olive oil, though it won’t have the same nutty flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the very end just to heat through so they don’t get overcooked.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild as written, but you can easily increase the heat by adding chili flakes or hot sauce.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry is a quick, colorful, and delicious meal that brings together fresh ingredients and bold Asian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter or just want something fast and flavorful, this stir-fry is a go-to favorite that delivers on taste and ease. Serve it over rice, noodles, or all on its own for a satisfying, balanced dinner.