Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory elements. Juicy shrimp are coated in a delicious sweet chili sauce and stir-fried with tender-crisp asparagus, making this a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes
• A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors
• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
• A great way to add more seafood and vegetables to your diet
• Customizable with different vegetables and proteins
• Ideal for meal prep and reheating

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• Sweet chili sauce
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Olive oil or sesame oil
• Red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
• Cooked rice or noodles (optional for serving)

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
4. Add the asparagus and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and pour in the sweet chili sauce and soy sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.
6. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp and asparagus.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even salmon.
• Vegetable Options: Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice or noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated from frozen.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep the sauce from thickening too much. Microwave for 1-2 minutes if in a hurry.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque. Overcooking can make it rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best way to trim asparagus?

Snap off the woody ends where they naturally break, or cut off about 1-2 inches from the bottom.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the shrimp fresh and store the sauce and asparagus separately.

What kind of sweet chili sauce should I use?

Any store-bought sweet chili sauce works, or you can make your own by mixing honey, vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding or reducing red pepper flakes.

Can I make this without soy sauce?

Yes, substitute with tamari, coconut aminos, or a little fish sauce for a different depth of flavor.

What other proteins work well in this dish?

Chicken, tofu, and salmon are excellent substitutes for shrimp.

Do I need a wok to make this recipe?

No, a large skillet works just fine for stir-frying.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Steamed rice, noodles, or a light cucumber salad make great sides.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something delicious to meal prep, this recipe delivers in both taste and convenience. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors!

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