Easy Shrimp Stir Fry: Quick, Healthy & Flavorful Weeknight Meal

Easy Shrimp Stir Fry

Discover the ultimate solution for a fast and delicious dinner with this fantastic Easy Shrimp Stir Fry! This recipe showcases succulent shrimp and a lively assortment of crisp-tender vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce that's bursting with flavor. Designed for those hectic evenings, this stir fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an indispensable part of your culinary repertoire.

We understand the appeal of meals that deliver big on taste without requiring extensive time in the kitchen, and this dish certainly fits the bill. It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to incorporate your family's favorite vegetables or whatever seasonal produce you have on hand. Prepare to make this your new favorite!

Why This Shrimp Stir Fry Will Be Your New Favorite

  • Speedy Preparation: From cutting board to dinner table in less than half an hour, it's perfect for any busy schedule.
  • Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with lean protein and an abundance of fresh vegetables, this is a meal you can feel great about serving.
  • Endlessly Adaptable: Easily swap out proteins or vegetables, and adjust the seasonings to create a stir fry tailored to your taste.
  • Simple Cleanup: Most of the cooking is done in a single wok or large skillet, ensuring a smooth post-dinner routine.

Gathering Your Ingredients

A handful of fresh ingredients magically transform into a deeply satisfying and complex dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp and vibrant vegetables for the best results.

For the Succulent Shrimp & Fresh Vegetables:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for an authentic aroma)
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (choose any color for visual appeal)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas (or delicate snow peas)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (recommended for true stir-fry flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice for serving

For the Perfect Savory Stir Fry Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds a wonderful umami depth)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (essential for a beautifully thickened sauce!)

For efficient vegetable preparation, a Quality Chef's Knife can make all the difference.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Flawless Shrimp Stir Fry

Easy Shrimp Stir Fry

Follow these straightforward steps for a delightful and effortless meal!

  1. Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Wash and chop the bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Mince the garlic and ginger. This 'mise en place' ensures a smooth and rapid cooking process.
  2. Step 2: Heat the Oil In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. The pan needs to be hot enough to quickly sear the shrimp.
  3. Step 3: Cook the Shrimp Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Lightly season them with salt and pepper. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender. Remove the cooked shrimp and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become aromatic. Next, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp, retaining a pleasant bite.
  5. Step 5: Combine and Sauce Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the stir-fried vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and, if using, the oyster sauce. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated in the flavorful sauce.
  6. Step 6: Thicken the Sauce Give your cornstarch and water mixture a quick stir, then add it to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency, creating that signature glossy stir-fry finish.
  7. Step 7: Serve Your Masterpiece Serve your piping hot shrimp stir fry immediately over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. For an optional garnish, sprinkle with sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions.

Expert Tips for Stir-Fry Success

  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook shrimp and vegetables in batches if your pan is too full. This ensures proper searing and prevents steaming, leading to better texture.
  • Maintain High Heat: Stir-frying thrives on high heat. Make sure your pan is consistently hot throughout the cooking process for that perfect crisp-tender outcome.
  • Master Your Prep: Having all ingredients chopped and measured before you begin is essential, as stir-frying moves very quickly.

Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions

This shrimp stir fry is wonderfully versatile! Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours:

  • Different Proteins: If shrimp isn't what you're craving, try this recipe with sliced chicken or beef. For another delicious Asian-inspired chicken dish, check out our Easy Mongolian Chicken With Savory Sauce Weeknight Winner!
  • Noodle Power: Instead of rice, toss your finished stir fry with cooked ramen, udon, or lo mein noodles. You might also love our Easy Homemade Chicken Lo Mein!
  • Extra Veggies: Feel free to experiment with thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, or baby corn for added texture and flavor.

Storing Your Delicious Leftovers

Leftover shrimp stir fry is a fantastic option for lunch the next day!

  • Storage: Keep any uneaten stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: The best way to reheat is gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy Your Easy Shrimp Stir Fry!

This Easy Shrimp Stir Fry is more than just a meal; it's a testament to how simple and satisfying healthy eating can be. With its vibrant flavors, quick cooking time, and endless customization options, it's sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

We truly hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! Don't hesitate to share your culinary creations and any delicious variations you discover in the comments below. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I prepare this shrimp stir fry with frozen shrimp?

Yes, absolutely! For best results, thaw your frozen shrimp completely and pat them very dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure a good sear.

What are some alternative vegetables for this stir fry?

This recipe is highly flexible! Consider adding sliced carrots, snow peas, mushrooms, baby corn, or water chestnuts. Use what's fresh and available!

How do I adjust the spice level of the stir fry sauce?

To add a kick, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautu00e9ing garlic and ginger, or mix a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce into the prepared stir-fry sauce.

What are good side dishes to serve with shrimp stir fry?

Classic choices include steamed white or brown rice. For a lighter option, try quinoa or cauliflower rice. You can also toss it with cooked noodles for a heartier meal.

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Easy Shrimp Stir Fry

Easy Shrimp Stir Fry


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  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A vibrant, quick-cooking dish featuring tender shrimp and crisp vegetables in a savory, aromatic sauce, perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.


Ingredients

Scale

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color adds a beautiful touch)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas (or snow peas for a delicate crunch)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional, but highly recommended for authentic flavor)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, adds depth and umami)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients Before you start cooking, get everything ready. Wash and slice your bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and quick.
Step 2: Heat the Oil In a large skillet or a wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it's shimmering. You want it hot enough to sear the shrimp quickly.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Then, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining a slight bite.
Step 5: Combine and Sauce Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the stir-fried vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and, if using, the oyster sauce. Stir everything well to ensure all the shrimp and veggies are beautifully coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce Give your cornstarch and water mixture a quick stir, then add it to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This creates that wonderful glossy finish you expect from a great stir fry.
Step 7: Serve Your Masterpiece Serve your piping hot shrimp stir fry immediately over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. For an extra touch, garnish with sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate shrimp in a teaspoon of soy sauce and a pinch of cornstarch for 10 minutes before cooking. Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or sriracha.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

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