In a rush but craving something delicious? This 15-minute shrimp stir fry might just be your perfect solution.
Packed with flavor and quick to make, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties. With succulent shrimp and vibrant veggies, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
Imagine juicy shrimp sautéed to perfection, mixed with a medley of colorful veggies, and tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a quick culinary escape that brings a taste of the sea right to your dinner table. Plus, the best part is, that you can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Easy: Ready in 15 minutes, from prep to plate.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and a zesty sauce.
- Customizable: Works with any vegetables or protein you have on hand.
- Versatile: Perfect as a standalone dish or served with rice, noodles, or salad.
- Minimal Cleanup: A one-pan wonder that saves you time on dishes.
This shrimp stir fry showcases a delightful array of vibrant ingredients. Bright bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while snap peas contribute a fresh, crisp texture. The star of the dish, succulent shrimp, brings a hint of the sea, making every bite a satisfying experience.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Pat the Shrimp Dry: Ensures they sear nicely instead of steaming.
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: This helps everything cook evenly in a short time.
- Use High Heat: A hot pan ensures crispy shrimp and perfectly sautéed veggies.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They only need 2-3 minutes per side to remain juicy and tender.
The sauce is the magical touch that elevates this dish. A combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce creates a deliciously savory base that coats the shrimp and vegetables beautifully. When the cornstarch mixture is added, it thickens up the sauce, ensuring each ingredient is perfectly enveloped in flavor.
Quick Cooking Technique
Preparation is key to making this meal in just 15 minutes. Start by heating vegetable oil in a skillet, letting it shimmer before adding the minced garlic and ginger. Once fragrant, toss in the shrimp, allowing them to cook until they transform into a lovely pink hue.
Perfectly Cooked Vegetables
Timing is essential when it comes to adding vegetables. Once the shrimp are ready, the bell peppers and snap peas should be introduced to maintain their tender-crisp quality. This method preserves the vibrant colors and nutrients, creating a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
An Inviting Presentation
Serving this dish is an art in itself. Place the shrimp stir fry on a rustic wooden table alongside steaming white rice for a homely touch. Garnishing with freshly chopped green onions adds a pop of color and freshness, making it visually appealing.
A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion
This shrimp stir fry is incredibly adaptable, perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings. You can customize it by swapping in your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauces to match your taste. This dish is sure to impress, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration.
Quick and Zesty 15-Minute Shrimp Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Slice the bell pepper and prepare the snap peas.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the sliced bell pepper and snap peas, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, and mix well. Add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, stirring until combined.
- Season: Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Equipment Needed
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Protein Swap: Use chicken, tofu, or beef instead of shrimp.
- Veggie Options: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch.
- Sauce Alternatives: Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, or add sriracha for heat.
- Carb Pairing: Serve over jasmine rice, quinoa, or rice noodles for a complete meal.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles.
- Pair with a light cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
(Before you go, don’t forget to **SAVE THIS PIN** so you can come back to it again later)
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prep the vegetables and sauce ahead of time to save more minutes when cooking.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
- What if I don’t have a wok? A large skillet works perfectly fine.
- How can I make it spicier? Add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil over the finished dish.