Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines juicy shrimp with crisp, colorful bell peppers and a savory-sweet stir-fry sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein from the shrimp and nutrients from the vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Stir-frying is a cornerstone of many Asian cuisines, offering a fast and flavorful way to cook ingredients while preserving their textures and nutrients. This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is versatile, allowing you to customize the vegetables or spice level to suit your preferences. Whether served with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried greens, this dish is a guaranteed hit with the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. The shrimp cook quickly and stay tender, while the bell peppers provide a crunchy, slightly sweet contrast. The homemade stir-fry sauce is a blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, elevating the dish to restaurant-quality status. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 ½ cups stir-fry

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g

Ingredients

For the stir-fry:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced

For the stir-fry sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

For garnish:

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced

Optional sides:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Noodles or cauliflower rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and set aside. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and ginger.

Step 2: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Set both aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the onion and stir-fry for 1 minute.
2. Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine and Finish the Dish

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss with the vegetables.
2. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the shrimp and vegetables, stirring to coat.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the shrimp and vegetables.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle the stir-fry with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
2. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or your preferred side. Enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

Shrimp are an excellent protein choice for stir-fries, cooking quickly and absorbing the flavors of the sauce. Large shrimp (21-25 count per pound) work best for this recipe, as they stay juicy and tender.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers add a sweet, crisp element to the stir-fry, balancing the savory and tangy flavors of the sauce. Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for a visually appealing dish.

Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce

Soy sauce provides the salty, umami base for the stir-fry sauce, while oyster sauce adds depth and a slightly sweet, savory flavor. Together, they create a rich, balanced sauce that complements the shrimp and vegetables.

Honey

Honey adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce, balancing the tanginess of the rice vinegar and the savoriness of the soy and oyster sauces.

Technique Tips

1. Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
2. Cut Vegetables Evenly: Slice the bell peppers and onion into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
3. High Heat for Stir-Frying: Use medium-high to high heat to achieve a quick sear on the shrimp and vegetables, preserving their textures and flavors.
4. Thicken the Sauce Gradually: Add the cornstarch slurry in small amounts, stirring constantly, to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shrimp and Pepper Noodle Bowl: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice noodles or lo mein for a hearty noodle dish.
• Shrimp Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the stir-fry into lettuce leaves for a low-carb, handheld option.
• Stir-Fried Quinoa Bowl: Replace rice with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
• Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer a saucier stir-fry.
• Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha for extra heat.
2. Vegetable-Packed Version: Add broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn for more variety.
3. Teriyaki Shrimp Stir-Fry: Replace the sauce with a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure all other sauces are gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
• Freezing: Freeze the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use less oil for stir-frying to reduce fat content.
• Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Add more vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry family-style with a large bowl of steamed jasmine rice.
• Meal Prep: Divide the stir-fry into meal prep containers with rice or noodles for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Dinner Party: Pair the stir-fry with spring rolls, dumplings, and a light salad for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Special Equipment

• Wok or large skillet for high-heat cooking
• Tongs for flipping the shrimp
• Microplane for grating fresh ginger

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables and sauce ahead, but cook the shrimp and stir-fry fresh for the best texture.

3. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

4. Can I substitute other proteins?
Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or tofu are great substitutes for shrimp in this stir-fry.

5. How can I make the dish less sweet?
Reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a sugar-free alternative for a less sweet sauce.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a vibrant, delicious dish that’s quick, healthy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight meal or serving it as part of a larger spread, this recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures every time. The combination of tender shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or even a low-carb option like cauliflower rice, making it suitable for various diets and preferences. Try it today, and enjoy a fast, flavorful dinner that’s sure to become a household favorite you’ll make again and again!

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