There’s something magical about the way sweet chili shrimp with asparagus dances in your mouth. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly seared and glistening, paired with tender-crisp asparagus—it’s a dish that sings harmony between sweet and savory. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses, creating an anticipation that builds with each sizzling sound.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to my first cooking adventure in college. A group of friends gathered around a tiny stove, our laughter echoing off the walls as we tried to create something edible. Spoiler alert: we did! Sweet chili shrimp with asparagus was our culinary triumph that night, and it turned into a staple for celebrations. Now, every bite reminds me of those carefree days and sparks joy at dinner parties or cozy weeknight meals.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sweet chili shrimp with asparagus is not only easy to prepare but bursting with flavor
- The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- With its flexibility, you can serve it over rice or enjoy it simply as is
- Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease of cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
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Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green stalks; they should be firm but tender when cooked.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds a delightful sweetness and depth; opt for a brand you love.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will enhance the aroma and flavor; minced works best in this recipe.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps balance flavors without overwhelming saltiness.
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Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or olive oil for frying; both work well to achieve that nice sear on the shrimp.
For seasoning:
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Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper elevates flavors without overpowering them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and trimming your asparagus into manageable pieces—around two inches long works well. Next, peel your shrimp if necessary and pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they get that beautiful sear.
Step 2: Heat Up That Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat about two tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You want it hot enough that water droplets dance when flicked in!
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Add minced garlic to the hot pan and sauté for about thirty seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—nobody wants bitter garlic ruining their sweet chili dreams!
Step 4: Cook Shrimp
Toss in your shrimp and season lightly with black pepper. Cook them for about three to four minutes until they turn pink and opaque. You’re looking for that perfect “just cooked” look—overcooked shrimp are like rubber bands!
Step 5: Add Asparagus
Now add your asparagus pieces to the pan. Stir everything together so the veggies mingle with the shrimp—you want them coated in all that garlicky goodness too! Cook for another three minutes until they turn bright green but still crisp.
Step 6: Pour In The Sauce
Finally, drizzle sweet chili sauce and soy sauce over your shrimp and asparagus mixture. Toss everything gently until evenly coated and heated through—this is where magic happens!
Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over top for the perfect finishing touch.
Enjoy this fabulous dish while reminiscing about your own kitchen adventures or making new memories around the table!
You Must Know
- This Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The vibrant colors and sweet-savory flavors will turn any meal into a celebration
- Perfect for those busy weeknights but fancy enough to impress your guests during special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the shrimp in a delightful sweet chili sauce. While that’s soaking in, heat your pan and sauté the asparagus until tender-crisp. Finally, toss in the shrimp, searing it until perfectly cooked and caramelized.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out asparagus for snap peas or broccoli if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor or top it off with crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain that perfect texture without overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, ensure the shrimp are thawed completely before marinating them; this helps the flavors penetrate better
- Always use fresh asparagus for that perfect crunch and vibrant color
- Lastly, don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking to achieve that beautiful sear on the shrimp
Cooking Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus was a game-changer at our last family gathering, where everyone raved about how they couldn’t get enough of it!
FAQs :
What is Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus?
Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus is a delicious dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus, all tossed in a flavorful sweet chili sauce. This dish features a balance of sweetness and heat, making it a popular choice for seafood lovers. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
How do I make the Sweet Chili Sauce?
To make the Sweet Chili Sauce for your shrimp and asparagus, you’ll need ingredients like sugar, vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Start by heating sugar and vinegar until dissolved. Then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, simmering until thickened. This sauce perfectly complements the shrimp’s natural flavors while adding a spicy-sweet kick.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus. Ensure you thaw them properly before cooking. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leave them in the refrigerator overnight. Using frozen shrimp is convenient and helps save time without sacrificing flavor.
What can I serve with Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus?
Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For a more substantial side, consider adding noodles or fried rice to round out your dining experience.
Conclusion for Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus :
In conclusion, Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus offers a delightful blend of flavors that appeal to many palates. The combination of succulent shrimp and crispy asparagus enhances the dish’s texture and taste. Preparing this meal is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create an unforgettable dining experience that showcases both simplicity and deliciousness.

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Sweet Chili Shrimp with Asparagus is a quick and delicious dish that perfectly balances succulent shrimp with crisp asparagus, all coated in a sweet and tangy chili sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed (about 12 stalks)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare asparagus by washing and cutting it into 2-inch pieces. Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and season lightly with black pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Stir in asparagus; cook for an additional 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
- Pour sweet chili sauce and soy sauce over the mixture; gently toss to coat evenly. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 170mg



