Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Lemon-Garlic Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Succulent shrimp and crisp asparagus stir-fried in a vibrant, tangy lemon-garlic sauce perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This asian fusion-inspired seafood ready in about 20 minutes blends medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, cut into 2-inch pieces fresh asparagus, sesame oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 240 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 240 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 12 oz peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 lb fresh asparagus cut into 2-inch pieces to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return shrimp to the skillet. Stir in 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp honey, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, tossing to coat everything evenly and heat through.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 sliced scallions and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds before serving immediately.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Lemon-Garlic Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Lemon-Garlic Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Lemon-Garlic Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Lemon-Garlic Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Lemon-Garlic Sauce?

Asian Fusion seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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