If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and absolutely delicious dish that comes together in a flash, the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. It perfectly balances the tender sweetness of shrimp with the crisp, bright snap of asparagus, all tied together by a zesty lemon sauce that sings with just the right amount of tang and subtle sweetness. This recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful, nutritious meal that fits beautifully into any busy weeknight or casual dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked on how effortless and satisfying it is!

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the natural flavors and provide a lovely contrast in textures and colors, making the dish both inviting and wholesome.

Olive oil (4 tablespoons, divided): Provides a rich base for sautéing, adding a subtle fruity flavor while helping everything cook evenly.
Large raw shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully, bringing a sweet, briny taste.
Asparagus (1 pound, ends trimmed, cut into 2-3 inch pieces): Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color, packed with nutrients and perfect for stir-frying.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon, divided): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
Minced ginger (1 teaspoon): Introduces a warm, zesty kick with just the right aromatic spice.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Offers a familiar, tasty depth that complements the shrimp and asparagus perfectly.
Chicken stock (2/3 cup): A flavorful liquid that helps create a luscious sauce without heaviness.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce gently, giving it an irresistible silky texture.
Sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances the acidity of lemon juice with a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami richness and a subtle saltiness for depth.
Lemon juice (1/4 cup): Brightens the entire dish with fresh citrus tartness that elevates every bite.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the lemon flavor, delivering a fragrant, sunny note to the sauce.

How to Make Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Lemon Sauce

Start by combining chicken stock, cornstarch, sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Whisking these together creates a balanced sauce that will coat the shrimp and asparagus beautifully later on. Setting this aside now means you’re ready to add it at just the right moment, making the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer so they cook evenly, searing for about 3 minutes and flipping halfway through. The moment they turn pink and curl up is your cue to season with a pinch of salt and remove them from the pan. Cooking shrimp this way keeps them tender and juicy, perfectly primed for soaking in the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Asparagus and Aromatics

Using the same pan, warm the remaining olive oil and toss in the asparagus pieces. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp—this texture is key to the lively bite we want. Sprinkle a little salt over the asparagus, then add minced ginger and garlic, stirring everything together for about 30 to 45 seconds. This step brings a wonderful fragrant foundation that complements both the veggies and the shrimp.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Pour your lemon sauce into the pan with the asparagus, stirring it gently to coat all the pieces. Add the shrimp back in and combine everything with care. Let the mixture simmer for about 1 minute or until the sauce thickens and clings to each ingredient, blending those bright, tangy flavors with the savory base.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once your sauce is glossy and irresistible, remove the pan from heat. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, while the shrimp remain tender and the asparagus crisp. It’s a dish bursting with fresh flavors and ready to brighten any meal.

How to Serve Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

To take your Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe up a notch, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions on top. A few red chili flakes can add a playful kick, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives a lovely nutty crunch. Simple garnishes enhance not only the presentation but also introduce extra layers of flavor that make the dish feel special.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious lemon sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh mixed greens salad with a bright vinaigrette. Alternatively, garlic noodles or crispy wonton chips provide satisfying texture contrasts that complement the tender shrimp and asparagus.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stir fry over a bed of whole-grain rice noodles for an Asian-inspired twist or wrap the mixture in warm lettuce cups for a fun handheld meal. You could also plate it in colorful bowls adorned with edible flowers or fresh herb sprigs. Presentation that feels thoughtful transforms this simple recipe into a restaurant-worthy experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping the sauce separate (if possible) helps maintain the freshness of the asparagus and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Freezing

While shrimp dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 1 month if necessary. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp and asparagus.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat to preserve the tender textures and bright flavors that make this stir fry so delightful.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well as long as you thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear and texture similar to fresh shrimp.

What can I substitute for chicken stock in the lemon sauce?

You can use vegetable broth or even water with a touch of soy sauce to keep the sauce flavorful and light if you prefer a vegetarian option.

How do I know when the asparagus is cooked perfectly?

Asparagus should be tender yet still have a bit of crispness; cook until it’s bright green and just easy to pierce with a fork, about 3 to 4 minutes depending on thickness.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms add wonderful texture and flavor variety without overpowering the lemon sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

By default, the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe is mild and bright, but you can easily add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe is one of those food hugs that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Its fresh flavors, quick preparation, and gorgeous presentation make it a fantastic recipe to have in your repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish promises to impress and satisfy every single time. So grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and dive into this delightful stir fry—you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen!

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry with Lemon Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 31 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 3 servings 1x

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Description

A quick and vibrant shrimp and asparagus stir fry tossed in a tangy lemon sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines succulent shrimp, crisp tender asparagus, and a flavorful blend of garlic, ginger, and bright lemon, perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 pound asparagus (ends trimmed, cut into 2–3 inch pieces)
1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic

Lemon Sauce Ingredients

2/3 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

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Instructions

Prepare the lemon sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken stock, cornstarch, sugar, soy sauce, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Set the mixture aside.
Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes, flipping halfway through. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Once cooked, remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the asparagus and aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook until tender-crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir in minced ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional 30 to 45 seconds to release their aroma.
Add lemon sauce and combine: Pour the prepared lemon sauce into the pan with asparagus. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve the shrimp and asparagus stir fry immediately while hot.