Shrimp Stir Fry

Introduction

Shrimp Stir Fry is one of those quick, colorful, and flavor-packed meals that brings together juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a savory stir-fry sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a wholesome weekend dinner, this dish is vibrant, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. The balance of protein, fresh veggies, and light yet bold sauce makes it both nourishing and delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Shrimp Stir Fry because it’s a 30-minute meal that feels restaurant-quality but is so simple to make at home. The shrimp cook in minutes, while the vegetables stay fresh and crunchy. Plus, the sauce coats everything beautifully, giving you a burst of flavor in every bite. Another reason I adore this recipe is its flexibility—you can swap veggies, adjust the sauce, or even serve it over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it checks all the boxes:

• ✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• ✅ Nutritious – Full of lean protein and colorful vegetables.
• ✅ Versatile – Works with different veggies and sauces.
• ✅ Crowd-Pleaser – Even picky eaters love it.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal (may vary with vegetables and serving style)
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Course: Main Dish / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated

For the Stir Fry Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or lime juice)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, adds richness)
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Marinate shrimp with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
2. Stir-fry shrimp in hot oil until just pink; remove.
3. Stir-fry vegetables until crisp-tender.
4. Add garlic and ginger, stir until fragrant.
5. Return shrimp, pour in sauce, and stir until coated.
6. Cook until sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the shrimp – In a bowl, mix shrimp with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Make the sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
3. Cook shrimp – Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove from pan.
4. Cook vegetables – In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender.
5. Add aromatics – Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine – Return shrimp to the skillet. Pour sauce over and stir to coat. Let cook for 2 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
7. Finish & Serve – Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

How to Serve Shrimp Stir Fry

• Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles.
• Pair with a side of spring rolls or miso soup for a complete meal.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need 3–4 minutes total.
• Use a hot wok/skillet to keep the veggies crisp.
• Slice vegetables evenly so they cook uniformly.

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir Fry: Swap the sauce for garlic, butter, and lemon juice.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Teriyaki Version: Use teriyaki sauce instead of stir-fry sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze shrimp stir fry (without rice) in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat to retain texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Small mixing bowls for sauce and marinade
• Wooden spatula for stir-frying

FAQ

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

Q2: Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely—store rice and stir fry separately for easy reheating.

Q3: What other vegetables can I use?
Snap peas, mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy work great.

Q4: How do I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Conclusion

Shrimp Stir Fry is the ultimate go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something fast, healthy, and delicious. It combines the perfect balance of protein, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce in just 30 minutes. With endless variations and easy storage, this recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves quick, flavorful meals.