Shrimp Stir Fry

Succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and the most delicious stir fry sauce make this Shrimp Stir Fry a favorite! It’s healthy, ready in 30 minutes, and perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of flavors and textures will impress your family and friends, making it suitable for casual dining or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This shrimp stir fry is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Flavor Explosion: A blend of fresh ingredients and savory sauces creates a dish that bursts with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with colorful vegetables and lean protein, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup is guaranteed as all cooking happens in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious shrimp stir fry, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Liquid measuring cup
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying as it provides ample space to cook the shrimp and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Helps combine the sauce ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Liquid measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurements for liquids, which is crucial for achieving the right sauce consistency.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• ⅓ cup water (or chicken broth)*
• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)*

For the Stir Fry

• 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil, divided)
• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail on or off)
• 2 carrots (julienne cut)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 8 ounces sugar snap peas
• 4 green onions (white and light green parts only, chopped)

To Serve

• 4 cups cooked rice
• sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make Shrimp Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. Combine all of the stir fry sauce ingredients in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup.
2. Whisk to combine thoroughly. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer; cook about 2 minutes on each side until pink.
4. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a clean plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet.
2. Add the julienned carrots, sliced bell peppers, and sugar snap peas to the pan.
3. Cook while stirring often for about 2–3 minutes until vegetables are just crisp-tender.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Whisk the stir fry sauce again to ensure everything is well mixed.
2. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables and return cooked shrimp to the pan.
3. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Finish Up

1. Stir in chopped green onions before serving.
2. Serve over cooked rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

This Shrimp Stir Fry recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion! Enjoy!

How to Serve Shrimp Stir Fry

Serving Shrimp Stir Fry is simple and versatile. This dish pairs well with various sides, allowing you to create a balanced meal that suits your taste preferences.

Over Rice

• Serve the shrimp stir fry over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. This classic combination helps soak up the delicious sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the stir fry with cooked noodles for a satisfying meal. Choose udon or rice noodles for a delightful twist.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, spoon the shrimp stir fry into butter lettuce leaves. This makes for a fresh and crunchy handheld meal.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Layer the stir fry on top of quinoa or farro for a nutritious grain bowl. Add some avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top just before serving. This adds texture and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.

How to Perfect Shrimp Stir Fry

To achieve the best Shrimp Stir Fry, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance flavor and ensure perfect texture every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and shrimp make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients ready before cooking, as stir-frying is quick and requires your full attention.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or fewer crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference.
• Thicken Sauce Correctly: Mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce to avoid clumps.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your shrimp stir fry right after cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Shrimp Stir Fry can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the stir fry.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice made with vegetables can be an excellent companion to your shrimp dish.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the warm stir fry.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and are packed with vitamins.
5. Mango Salsa: A sweet and tangy mango salsa provides a unique twist that balances the savory elements of the stir fry.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled carrots or radishes add crunch and acidity, enhancing each bite of shrimp stir fry.
7. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice seasoned lightly with salt and pepper.
8. Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup serves as a comforting starter that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes like shrimp stir fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Shrimp Stir Fry, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using overcooked shrimp: Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery and tough. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink for the best texture.
• Neglecting to prep ingredients: Stir frying requires quick cooking, so having all your ingredients prepped beforehand ensures a smooth process.
• Skipping the sauce whisking step: Not whisking the sauce before adding it can lead to uneven flavors. Always mix it well to ensure a consistent taste throughout.
• Cooking vegetables too long: Vegetables should be crisp-tender for optimal flavor and texture. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they reach this stage.
• Not using high enough heat: Stir frying requires high heat for that signature charred flavor. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Shrimp Stir Fry can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Shrimp Stir Fry

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Shrimp Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stir fry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making the perfect Shrimp Stir Fry, here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp for my Shrimp Stir Fry?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking for even results.

What vegetables work best in Shrimp Stir Fry?

You can use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, and carrots. Feel free to customize based on your preference!

How do I make my Shrimp Stir Fry spicy?

To add spice, include more crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers when cooking.

Can I substitute the soy sauce in my Shrimp Stir Fry?

Absolutely! You can use coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option if needed.

Is Shrimp Stir Fry healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from shrimp and loaded with fresh vegetables making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Stir Fry recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. The combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables creates a delightful meal that you can customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to please any palate—give it a try!