Shrimp Stir Fry

This shrimp stir-fry is a quick, colorful, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce, it’s a one-pan dinner that comes together in just over 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stir-fry checks all the boxes: fast, healthy, and delicious. It’s endlessly customizable, so you can swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to your taste. The sauce balances soy, lime, sugar, and a touch of heat, giving you a dish that feels both satisfying and light. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, which means less cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 small head broccoli, cut into florets

• 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, thinly sliced

• 8 ounces sugar snap peas

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped peeled ginger

• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce

• Juice of 1 lime

• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes, turning halfway through, until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.

2. In the same skillet, heat sesame oil. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring often, until firm-tender. If browning too quickly, add a splash of water.

3. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes until smooth.

5. Pour sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Toss to coat and cook until the sauce thickens.

6. Return shrimp to the pan and toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through, about 2 minutes. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein.

• Use other vegetables like green beans, asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms.

• Add pineapple or mango chunks for a sweet tropical twist.

• Adjust spice by adding more red pepper flakes or fresh chili.

• Use rice noodles instead of rice for serving.

Storage/Reheating

Shrimp stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture, or microwave in short intervals. Avoid overcooking during reheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What other vegetables work well in shrimp stir-fry?

Snow peas, green beans, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great options.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Mix the sauce ingredients up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Do I need a wok for this recipe?

No, a large skillet (preferably cast iron) works well for home cooking.

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook them just until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove them from the pan while cooking vegetables.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

What can I serve with shrimp stir-fry?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or rice noodles are classic choices. Quinoa also works well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, swap the shrimp for tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking steps.

How spicy is this stir-fry?

It has mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can add more or less depending on your taste.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook the shrimp and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

Shrimp stir-fry is a vibrant, satisfying, and versatile dish that makes weeknight cooking stress-free. With its quick prep, customizable veggies, and bold sauce, it’s a recipe that belongs in your regular rotation. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and flavorful meal.

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