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Tender shrimp tossed with crisp asparagus and earthy mushrooms come together in a fast and flavorful stir-fry that makes weeknight dinners feel special. It is one of those dishes you can whip up with little preparation, yet the combination always feels like a treat at the table.
The first time I made this was a busy Tuesday when I had a bag of shrimp in the freezer and little else in the fridge. Since then it has saved many last-minute meal dilemmas.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: choose large peeled and deveined shrimp for fast prep and sweet flavor. Frozen shrimp are fine just thaw and pat dry for best sear
- Asparagus: fresh medium thickness spears work best. Pick bunches that are bright green and snap easily
- Cremini mushrooms: firm and brown with tight caps. You can also use button or shiitake mushrooms
- Garlic: fresh cloves minced finely for that signature stir-fry aroma
- Olive oil: for high-heat cooking. Use extra-virgin for deeper flavor
- Soy sauce or tamari: adds umami and salt. Tamari keeps it gluten free
- Ground black pepper: freshly cracked gives a gentle heat
- Salt: season lightly and taste before serving
- Unsalted butter: optional swirled in at the end for silky sauce
Look for shrimp that smell clean no fishy odor and asparagus with firm stalks. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp towel for maximum flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep All Ingredients:
- Trim asparagus into two inch sections. Wipe mushrooms and cut into thick slices so they do not shrink away in the pan. If shrimp need peeling or deveining do so now then pat them very dry with paper towels. Mince garlic and keep it ready for the pan
- Infuse the Oil with Garlic:
- Pour olive oil into your largest skillet or wok. Set heat to medium-high. Scatter in minced garlic and move it constantly for about half a minute until that garlicky aroma hits but before it gets any color
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Push in mushrooms and asparagus. Stir everything frequently letting the vegetables tumble so they sear but do not steam. After about three minutes asparagus should be vibrant green and mushrooms lightly browned
- Add Shrimp:
- Drop in the shrimp making sure each one hits the hot pan. Let them cook undisturbed for a minute then toss until they turn pink and curl up. This usually takes just two or three minutes so keep an eye out
- Season and Finish:
- Pour soy sauce evenly around the pan so it sizzles when it lands. Dust with black pepper and add salt gradually. If you want a richer sauce swirl butter into the pan until melted and glossy
- Serve:
- Spoon the stir-fry onto plates right away. It goes over freshly steamed rice or quinoa but is just as good piled into a bowl by itself
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Nothing wakes up this recipe like super fresh asparagus. Every spring I buy it straight from the farmers market and the flavor is a world apart. My kids always eat their greens when they are tucked in with shrimp and buttery mushrooms.
Storage Tips
Leftovers stay fresh in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat use a skillet over medium heat so the shrimp stay tender. I do not recommend microwaving for too long or the shrimp can turn rubbery.
Ingredient Substitutions
Out of cremini mushrooms Use any variety of mushroom you like even portobello chunks. Broccoli or snow peas sub in well for asparagus. Coconut aminos work if you need a soy-free option.
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Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice or nutty brown rice for a more filling dinner. If you are keeping it lighter try it with riced cauliflower or a side salad tossed in sesame dressing. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions adds even more color.
Cultural Context
Stir-frying is an iconic East Asian technique that brings together color texture and nutrition. While this dish is quick and easy it reflects the balance of flavors and cooking speed that make Asian-inspired meals such crowd-pleasers at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute other vegetables for asparagus?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, or broccoli make great additions if you'd like to swap out asparagus. Adjust cooking time for each veggie to keep them crisp-tender.
- → How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook in just a few minutes. Remove them from heat when they turn pink and just opaque. Overcooking results in rubbery texture, so keep a close eye.
- → What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms all complement this stir-fry well. Use what is readily available for optimal results.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor?
Add fresh ginger or a splash of sesame oil while cooking, or finish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds for depth and aroma.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed freshly cooked for optimal texture. However, leftovers keep in the fridge for up to two days and reheat well in a skillet.
- → What can I serve with this stir-fry?
Steamed rice, quinoa, or rice noodles pair nicely. For a low-carb option, serve as is or over cooked cauliflower rice.