Spring is finally here and the garden is waking up. You might be looking for something fresh and light for dinner tonight. This Asparagus Mushroom Stir Fry is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
It is 6pm and you need dinner fast. This recipe delivers a healthy meal in minutes. You will love how the tender-crisp vegetables soak up the savory sauce. It is vibrant, delicious, and so easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a total winner for busy weeknights. It takes only 10 minutes to cook. You get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. It is also very budget-friendly using simple produce.
The combination of earthy mushrooms and bright asparagus is wonderful. It feels like a healthy reset for your body. Your family will enjoy the crunch and the deep, umami flavor. It is a great way to get everyone to eat their greens.
Simple Method
Making a stir fry is all about preparation. Once the pan is hot, things move very quickly. You just need to whisk the sauce and chop your veggies first. This method ensures everything stays crisp and colorful.
Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. High heat is your best friend here. It creates that beautiful golden crust on the mushrooms. You will feel like a pro chef in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely in your pantry already. Fresh spring asparagus is the star of the show here.
- 450g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 250g cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it begins to shimmer.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and sear for 2 minutes without stirring to develop a golden brown crust.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the mushrooms and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp and vibrant green.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables and toss continuously for 1 minute until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this Asparagus Mushroom Stir Fry while it is steaming hot. It is delicious over a bed of fluffy white rice. For a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken or tofu. You can even serve it alongside quinoa for extra protein.
Set the table and enjoy a quiet moment. This dish is perfect for a quick healthy lunch too. The colors look beautiful on the plate. It is a simple joy for a spring evening.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, they keep well in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This makes it a great meal prep option for work. The flavors actually deepen as they sit together.
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if you can to keep the crunch. It only takes 2 or 3 minutes to warm through.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip drying your vegetables after washing them.
- Avoid crowding the pan so the mushrooms can brown.
- Use fresh ginger instead of powder for the best flavor.
- Cut your asparagus into equal sizes for even cooking.
- Double the sauce if you like extra for your rice.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime at the end for brightness.
- Substitute tamari for soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Add toasted cashews or peanuts for a lovely crunch.
- Swap the red pepper flakes for fresh chili if you love heat.
- Try adding sliced bell peppers for more color.
- Use sesame seeds as a beautiful garnish before serving.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus?
I recommend using fresh asparagus for this recipe. Frozen vegetables tend to release too much water. This will make your stir fry soggy instead of crisp.
How do I know when the asparagus is done?
The asparagus should be a bright, vibrant green. It should be tender when pierced with a fork but still have a bite. Do not overcook it or it will turn mushy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can chop all the vegetables and whisk the sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you are ready, the actual cooking only takes 10 minutes.
I hope this fresh stir fry brings a little bit of spring sunshine to your kitchen. It is such a joy to cook with simple, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy every bite!
— Lidia
Asparagus Mushroom Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 450 g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 250 g cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarc h
- 2 tablespoons wate r
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it begins to shimmer.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and sear for 2 minutes without stirring to develop a golden brown crust.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the mushrooms and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp and vibrant green.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables and toss continuously for 1 minute until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
