Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as quick to make as it is fresh and satisfying, Shrimp Stir-Fry deserves a spot at the top of your weeknight rotation. This lively dish pulls together juicy shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and a glossy, flavor-packed sauce for a colorful meal that bursts with sweet-savory notes in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, you’ll love how easily this stir-fry comes together and the array of textures and tastes that make it instantly crave-worthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s celebrate how simple yet essential these ingredients are! Each one brings something special to the Shrimp Stir-Fry, from vibrant color to flavor-boosting sauces and that perfect bit of crunch. Here’s what to gather before you get cooking:

• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The star protein, offering sweet and tender bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Gives everything a lovely, golden sear and keeps the stir-fry light and heart-healthy.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds an irresistible aromatic base for the stir-fry. Don’t skimp!
• Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Provides cheerful color and juicy crispness to each forkful.
• Zucchini (1, sliced): Offers a mild, tender texture that absorbs the sauce perfectly.
• Snap Peas (1 cup): Introduce extra crunch and a hit of fresh green flavor.
• Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons): The main savory driver for the signature stir-fry sauce.
• Oyster Sauce (1 tablespoon): Delivers unbeatable umami depth and a rich, silky finish.
• Honey (1 teaspoon): Brings balance with just a gentle hint of sweetness.
• Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon): Adds that final toasty, nutty aroma that’s so classic in Asian stir-fries.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): A bit of heat if you’re in the mood for a little spice!
• Cornstarch + Water (1 tablespoon + 2 tablespoons): Forms a quick slurry to help the sauce cling to every piece.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tablespoon, for garnish): Sprinkle these on at the end for fun texture and visual appeal.
• Green Onions (2, chopped, for garnish): A pop of freshness and color right before serving.

How to Make Shrimp Stir-Fry

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, scatter your prepared shrimp across the surface in a single layer. Sear each side for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until they curl and turn a lovely pink. Don’t let them linger—overcooked shrimp lose their bounce! Scoop them out and set aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan (no need to clean it), add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and give it a quick stir—just about 30 seconds until the air fills with its delicious aroma. This short burst unlocks the garlic’s flavor without making it bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

Add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and snap peas straight into the pan. Stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes, just long enough for the veggies to brighten in color and become slightly tender without losing their crispness. This mix is the heart of the Shrimp Stir-Fry’s crunch and vibrancy.

Step 4: Mix Up the Sauce

While the vegetables cook, grab a small bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. This blend makes a lush, complex sauce that ties the entire dish together.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the veggies, then add the cornstarch slurry (just combine the cornstarch and water beforehand). Stir everything well, letting the sauce bubble for 1 to 2 minutes until you notice it thickening and getting glossy. The aroma will tell you it’s almost ready.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return your seared shrimp to the skillet, and toss until every piece is coated and gleaming with sauce. Let it all cook for another minute to meld the flavors—you’ll see the veggies and shrimp glistening in that savory glaze. Now it’s time to take it off the heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the finished Shrimp Stir-Fry with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve right away, ideally over a bed of fluffy rice or steaming noodles. Every bite is hot, saucy perfection!

How to Serve Shrimp Stir-Fry

Garnishes

When it comes to toppings, a little goes a long way. A shower of toasted sesame seeds brings unexpected crunch, while a handful of green onions lends brightness and color. Want to amp things up? Add a quick grate of fresh lime zest or a sprinkle of chili threads for something extra special.

Side Dishes

Shrimp Stir-Fry is incredibly versatile, so you have plenty of pairing options. Serve it over jasmine rice for a classic touch, or spoon it atop rice noodles or quinoa for a fun twist. If you’d like something lighter, a side of steamed edamame or a tangy Asian cucumber salad fits beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to show a little flair! Try serving the stir-fry inside hollowed-out bell peppers, or portion it into small lettuce cups for a party appetizer. You can even top a grain bowl with Shrimp Stir-Fry, a handful of pickled veggies, and a soft-boiled egg for a visually stunning meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Shrimp Stir-Fry, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, holding onto both its flavor and texture better than you might expect.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish, as the texture of cooked shrimp and vegetables can become a bit mushy upon thawing. If you do need to freeze it, pack the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container and eat within a month for best results. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Shrimp Stir-Fry, pour it into a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, since that can lead to rubbery shrimp. A quick toss on the stove helps maintain the integrity of the sauce and veggies.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture can interfere with that delicious, slightly charred sear we’re after.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

If oyster sauce isn’t on hand, you can swap in hoisin sauce for sweetness or fish sauce for extra depth. Even a touch of soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar can do the trick in a pinch.

What other veggies work in Shrimp Stir-Fry?

You’re free to mix and match! Broccoli florets, thinly sliced carrots, water chestnuts, or mushrooms are all wonderful additions. Just watch the cook time so everything stays crisp-tender.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and double check that your oyster sauce is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free from gluten, so it’s a super simple adjustment.

Can I prep any parts of Shrimp Stir-Fry ahead?

Definitely! You can slice your veggies and stir together the sauce up to a day in advance. Store everything separately in the fridge, then toss it all together just before dinnertime—easy and efficient.

Final Thoughts

You truly can’t go wrong with Shrimp Stir-Fry—it’s fast, flexible, and positively packed with flavor. Whether you try it as written or make it your own with different veggies, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent place in your dinner repertoire. Grab your wok and give it a go!

Print