Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. The original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings.

Sauce:

• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Stir Fry:

• 2 tablespoons peanut oil, divided
• 1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 white onion, cut into 1/4-inch wide wedges
• 1 pound large shrimp
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Crushed red chilies (optional)
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, lemon juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon zest, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and onion, and cook until the asparagus is tender-crisp, stirring frequently, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Heat the remaining oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Add the asparagus and onion back into the skillet with the shrimp.

Step 5: Stir the sauce mixture and pour it over the shrimp and vegetables in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with crushed red chilies and lemon slices, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	265
Total Fat	9g (12%)
Saturated Fat	2g (9%)
Cholesterol	240mg (80%)
Sodium	1666mg (72%)
Total Carbohydrate	17g (6%)
Dietary Fiber	3g (11%)
Total Sugars	9g
Protein	30g (60%)
Vitamin C	17mg (19%)
Calcium	147mg (11%)
Iron	2mg (10%)
Potassium	568mg (12%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry combines the sweetness of shrimp with the fresh, crisp texture of asparagus, all dressed in a tangy lemon sauce. It's a light and healthy dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a more refined dinner. Let's explore the history, regional variations, and some fun facts about this delicious stir fry.

History of the Dish

The origins of stir-frying as a cooking technique can be traced back to ancient China, where it was used to preserve the freshness of ingredients while cooking them quickly at high heat. The stir fry method spread across Asia and beyond, influencing many regional cuisines. The combination of shrimp and asparagus is particularly popular in Western adaptations of Asian stir-fry, merging the classic stir-fry style with more accessible ingredients. Shrimp, a prized seafood, is often used in American and European stir-fries due to its delicate flavor and quick cooking time. Asparagus, with its light, refreshing taste, complements shrimp beautifully, creating a dish that feels both elegant and easy to prepare.

Regional Features

This dish has no single regional origin, as it is a fusion of Asian stir-fry traditions with Western ingredients. However, it is widely enjoyed in both American and European cuisines. In America, stir-fries like this are often served as part of a lighter, healthy meal option, frequently found in contemporary Asian-inspired restaurants. In Europe, particularly in Mediterranean countries, shrimp and asparagus are staples, and while they might not traditionally appear together in stir-fries, this combination brings a fresh twist to Mediterranean-style seafood dishes.

What Makes It Different?

What sets this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry apart from similar dishes is its focus on brightness and freshness. The lemony sauce, made with lemon juice, zest, and a hint of brown sugar, brings a unique, tangy flavor that distinguishes it from traditional stir-fries which might lean more on soy sauce and heavier, saltier sauces. The addition of fresh vegetables like asparagus and onion gives it a lighter, more balanced profile compared to richer, heavier stir-fries that include meat like beef or pork. The dish is also much lighter on the palate, with the shrimp taking center stage as the main protein, unlike the more commonly used chicken or beef in other stir-fries.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is commonly served as a main dish, often paired with steamed rice or noodles. It is especially popular in casual American restaurants offering Asian fusion cuisine, where stir-fried dishes are a staple. You might also find it in more upscale restaurants as a healthy, flavorful option for a light dinner. The dish is also a frequent feature at home dinner tables, especially when quick, nutritious meals are needed. It can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• Did you know that asparagus is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits? It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and is a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion.
• The use of lemon in this stir fry is not just for flavorit also helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite more complex and satisfying.
• In Asian cuisine, stir-frying is considered one of the healthiest cooking methods, as it requires little oil and preserves the nutrients in the ingredients due to the quick cooking time.
• Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood choices worldwide. It's low in fat but high in protein, making it a favorite among health-conscious diners.
• Asparagus has been cultivated since ancient times. It was even considered a delicacy in ancient Rome, where it was thought to be a natural remedy for various ailments.

Whether you're cooking it at home for a quick meal or ordering it at a restaurant, this Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry offers a delightful and fresh twist on the traditional stir-fry. With its rich history, vibrant flavors, and nutritional benefits, it's no wonder that this dish continues to be a favorite worldwide.

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