Name: Sweet Chili Shrimp and Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

This Sweet Chili Shrimp and Asparagus dish is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. With tender shrimp and crisp asparagus tossed in a flavorful sauce, it’s an easy-to-make, healthy dinner option that can also double as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. If you’re in the mood for something light, yet satisfying, this recipe has all the right elements!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, simple, and incredibly tasty! The shrimp cook up quickly, and the asparagus brings a nice crunch to the dish, creating a satisfying texture combination. The sweet chili sauce paired with a hint of ginger, garlic, and honey creates a bold, tangy flavor profile that’s absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s a healthy, low-carb meal that’s also gluten-free, paleo, and packed with protein. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when I want something easy and flavorful without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp.

In a small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic.

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the asparagus and pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp and asparagus. Stir everything together, making sure it’s evenly coated.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the skillet from the heat.

For a finishing touch, sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

If you want to mix it up a bit, there are a few easy tweaks I can make to the recipe:

Add veggies: I love adding bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn to the mix for even more crunch and flavor.

Spicy kick: If I want a spicier version, I’ll throw in some red pepper flakes or fresh chili slices for added heat.

Switch proteins: If I don’t have shrimp on hand, I can swap it out for chicken or even tofu for a different protein source.

Use coconut aminos: For a soy-free option, I’ll swap the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which works wonderfully in this dish.

Storage/Reheating

This Sweet Chili Shrimp and Asparagus dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if I have leftovers, I can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When it’s time to reheat, I prefer warming it gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture of the shrimp and asparagus. I can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, but the veggies may lose a little of their crispness.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If I like more heat, I add a few red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some chopped fresh chilies. You can also drizzle a bit of Sriracha or another hot sauce over the top for an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best when freshly made, I can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save some time on busy nights. Just cook everything the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Sweet Chili Shrimp and Asparagus dish is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos if needed.

Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?

Absolutely! If asparagus isn’t your favorite, I can substitute it with other veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas. The cooking times may vary slightly, but the overall result will still be delicious.

Conclusion

This Sweet Chili Shrimp and Asparagus recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with the tender shrimp and crisp asparagus makes it a delightful dish that I’ll keep coming back to. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever I’m in the mood for a fresh and light meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

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