Sesame Shrimp And Asparagus
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender shrimp and crisp asparagus toasted with sesame seeds. The dish combines nutty, savory, and slightly salty flavors, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a light lunch served over rice. Its vibrant taste appeals to seafood lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces.
- In a wok or large skillet, toast sesame seed until golden; set aside.
- In the same skillet, over medium-high heat, add salad oil, then add asparagus, sliced onions, and shrimp.
- Cook until tender and crisp, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in toasted sesame seed, soy sauce, and salt.
- Mix and stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Serve hot over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger for 15-30 minutes before cooking. If you don’t have asparagus, green beans or snap peas can be great substitutes. Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor, so don’t skip this step! For added crunch, consider adding some crushed peanuts or cashews just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious Sesame Shrimp and Asparagus over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. For a delightful variation, consider serving alongside a refreshing Shrimp And Vegetable Dip as an appetizer for a more elaborate meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving as it may make the shrimp rubbery. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of soy sauce to revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Shrimp And Asparagus contains roughly 1651 calories, with 41g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (82% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1852mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This will help them cook evenly and prevent excess water from being released during the cooking process. For the best results, place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw or submerge them in cold water for a quicker option.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you're looking for a soy sauce alternative, consider using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower sodium choice. Both options will provide a similar umami flavor, making them suitable substitutes in this recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also drizzle sriracha or another hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to your personal heat preference for the perfect balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).