A Short Story About the Recipe
Whenever I crave a meal that’s both light and satisfying, I turn to my Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Mushrooms. I remember the first time I made this dish for a busy weeknight dinner – I was looking for something quick that didn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of shrimp, crisp asparagus, and earthy mushrooms came together perfectly in one pan, filling my kitchen with the most inviting aroma. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re eating restaurant-quality food right at home. Over time, I’ve shared it with friends and family, and it has become one of those recipes that everyone requests when they come over.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this shrimp and asparagus stir-fry because it is fresh, flavorful, and comes together in less than 30 minutes. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, while the asparagus keeps its bite, and the mushrooms add a depth of flavor that makes every bite satisfying. It is a healthy recipe that feels indulgent without being heavy. The light sauce coats everything perfectly, making it taste balanced and bright.
Versatile
One of the best things about this stir-fry is how versatile it is. You can serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even enjoy it on its own for a lighter meal. If asparagus is not in season, you can easily swap it for broccoli, green beans, or snow peas. The mushrooms can be replaced with any variety you like, from button mushrooms to shiitake.
Affordable
This recipe is budget-friendly since it uses simple, fresh ingredients that you can find in any grocery store. Shrimp cooks quickly, which means you can make a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Using vegetables that are in season will help keep the cost even lower.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
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1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
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1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Prepare This Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Making shrimp and asparagus stir-fry with mushrooms is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prepare the ingredients: Rinse and pat dry the shrimp, then season them lightly with salt and black pepper. Trim the asparagus ends and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Slice the mushrooms thinly so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic and ginger so they are ready to add quickly.
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Heat the pan: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil and swirl to coat the bottom.
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Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the asparagus and mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Add the mixture to the pan with the vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
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Thicken the sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and lightly coats the vegetables.
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Combine everything: Return the shrimp to the pan and toss well to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through.
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Serve immediately: Remove from heat and serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is perfect when you need dinner in under 30 minutes. Because shrimp cooks so fast, you can have a healthy, delicious meal on the table with very little effort.
Customizable
You can adjust this recipe to your preferences. Use chicken instead of shrimp if you prefer a different protein. Try broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers in place of asparagus for a different flavor and texture. You can also add cashews or sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Popular With Many People
This shrimp and asparagus stir-fry is always a hit at family dinners and casual gatherings. The mild but flavorful sauce makes it appealing even for picky eaters, and the colorful vegetables make it visually inviting. It is a meal that everyone at the table enjoys, and it works for both quick weeknight meals and slightly more special occasions.
Print
Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Mushrooms
This shrimp and asparagus stir-fry with mushrooms is a quick and healthy dinner that’s full of flavor. Tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and earthy mushrooms come together in a light, savory sauce for a meal that feels special yet is easy to prepare on a busy weeknight.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Rinse shrimp and pat dry. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Trim asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Slice mushrooms. Mince garlic and ginger.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and swirl to coat.
- Place shrimp in the pan in a single layer. Cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the pan. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add asparagus and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Pour mixture into the pan and stir well to coat vegetables.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry. Cook 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to vegetables.
- Return shrimp to the pan and toss everything together. Cook 1 more minute until heated through.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own.
Notes
Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor.
Substitute asparagus with broccoli, snap peas, or green beans if preferred.
For a richer flavor, drizzle with toasted sesame oil just before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Button mushrooms, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms work well for this stir-fry. You can also use a mix of mushrooms to add more flavor and texture.
How do I keep the asparagus crisp?
Cook the asparagus over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. It should stay bright green and slightly firm. Stir-frying for just a few minutes is usually enough.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served immediately, but you can prep the vegetables and sauce ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and vegetables just before serving to keep them fresh and tender.
What can I serve this with?
Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles make great bases for this stir-fry. You can also enjoy it with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes, simply add more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil at the end for extra heat.