Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry

Introduction

Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry is a light, flavorful, and healthy alternative to traditional stir fry. Packed with succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and low-carb cauliflower rice, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a savory sauce that clings perfectly to the shrimp and vegetables, while the cauliflower rice soaks up all the flavors without adding heavy carbs. Quick to prepare and full of color, this stir fry is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s healthy yet indulgent, balancing protein, vegetables, and flavor in one pan. The shrimp cooks in just minutes, making this an easy, weeknight-friendly recipe. Cauliflower rice absorbs all the delicious sauce, giving the texture of rice without the carbs. It’s vibrant, colorful, and full of flavor, making every bite satisfying without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s versatile and can be adapted to whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s perfect for anyone trying to eat healthier or reduce carbs while still enjoying a flavorful, satisfying meal. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible aroma and taste, while the quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy schedules. It’s nutritious, colorful, and restaurant-quality but can be made at home in under 30 minutes.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 20–22 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Asian / Low-Carb
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 medium head of cauliflower, riced (or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower)
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup snow peas or green beans
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2–3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add bell peppers, carrot, and snow peas. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add cauliflower rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until cauliflower is tender.
6. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to combine. Heat 1–2 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Rinse and peel shrimp if needed. Rice the cauliflower using a food processor or buy pre-riced cauliflower. Slice bell peppers and julienne carrot.

Step 2: Cook Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

Add bell peppers, carrot, and snow peas. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Add Cauliflower Rice

Add riced cauliflower, soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until cauliflower is tender but still slightly firm.

Step 6: Combine Shrimp

Return cooked shrimp to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce and vegetables. Cook 1–2 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Plate the stir fry and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve as-is for a low-carb meal.
• Pair with cooked jasmine rice or quinoa for a higher-carb option.
• Add a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.
• Drizzle with extra soy sauce or sriracha for added flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Pat shrimp dry to get a better sear and prevent steaming.
• Do not overcrowd the pan; stir-fry in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Adjust vegetables based on seasonality or preference.
• For more sauce, add 1–2 tbsp of water or broth while stir-frying.
• Sesame oil should be added toward the end to maintain its aroma and flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry:
   Add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir Fry:
   Replace sesame oil with butter and soy sauce with a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
3. Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry:
   Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter glaze.
4. Vegetarian Option:
   Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh.
5. Noodle Alternative:
   Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of cauliflower rice.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To Freeze: Cooked stir fry can be frozen for up to 1 month, though texture of cauliflower may soften slightly.
• To Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to restore moisture if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Food processor (if ricing cauliflower)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables.

Q3: Can I add more sauce?
Yes, mix 1–2 tbsp soy sauce with 1 tsp cornstarch and a splash of water to create extra sauce.

Q4: Can I use store-bought cauliflower rice?
Absolutely, it saves prep time and cooks just as well.

Q5: How do I keep vegetables crisp?
Cook vegetables over high heat and avoid overcooking. Stir-fry quickly for best results.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that combines tender shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and low-carb cauliflower rice in a savory, garlicky sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is satisfying, nutritious, and easy to customize. Its balance of flavor, texture, and color makes it both delicious and visually appealing, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy, flavorful stir fry.