Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a quick, vibrant, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a wholesome, colorful meal. Packed with succulent shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this stir-fry is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients and one pan, making it an ideal addition to your weekly meal rotation.

The combination of tender shrimp, sweet bell peppers, and a tangy, umami-rich sauce creates a well-balanced dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is endlessly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry will become one of your go-to dishes:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Packed with Flavor: The savory, slightly sweet stir-fry sauce pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of shrimp and peppers.
• Nutritious: Loaded with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a wholesome and balanced meal.
• Customizable: Swap vegetables, adjust spice levels, or add your favorite protein for variety.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Preparation Time and Servings

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

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails on or off)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced into thin strips)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced into thin strips)
• 1 green bell pepper (sliced into thin strips)
• 1 small onion (sliced thinly)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated or minced)

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame seeds (toasted)
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Clean the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Cut the bell peppers into thin strips and slice the onion thinly. Mince the garlic and ginger.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 2: Sear 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, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp but still vibrant in color.

Step 4: Make the Sauce and Combine

1. Return the shrimp to the skillet.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the stir-fry from heat and garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro.
2. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Ingredient Background

• Shrimp: A quick-cooking protein that’s naturally sweet and complements the savory sauce. Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they’re thawed and patted dry for the best sear.
• Bell Peppers: These vibrant vegetables add color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness to the dish. Use a mix of red, yellow, and green for visual appeal.
• Soy Sauce: The base of the stir-fry sauce, it provides savory umami flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the sauce. It’s a staple in many Asian stir-fry recipes.
• Rice Vinegar: Brings a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the sauce.

Technique Tips

1. Prep Ingredients in Advance: Stir-frying is a fast process, so have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking.
2. Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the shrimp and vegetables cook evenly.
3. Keep the Heat High: High heat helps to sear the shrimp and vegetables, preserving their texture and flavor.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking to ensure a glossy, thickened sauce.
5. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the stir-fry and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce, vinegar, or spice, if needed.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Rice Bowl: Serve the stir-fry over a bowl of steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
• Shrimp and Pepper Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the stir-fry with cooked noodles, such as udon, lo mein, or rice noodles.
• Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the stir-fry into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, handheld option.
• Shrimp and Veggie Wraps: Roll the stir-fry into tortillas or flatbreads for an Asian-inspired wrap.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly—remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Use a Wok if Possible: A wok’s high, sloped sides make stir-frying easier and more efficient.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, acidity, or saltiness to suit your personal taste.
• Add More Veggies: Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots make excellent additions to this dish.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha for extra heat.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir-Fry: Replace the sauce with a garlic butter mixture for a rich, indulgent variation.
• Sweet and Sour Stir-Fry: Add pineapple chunks and a splash of sweet and sour sauce for a tangy twist.
• Vegetarian Stir-Fry: Swap the shrimp for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian oyster sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
• To Freeze: Freeze the stir-fry (without rice or noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Less Oil: Reduce the amount of vegetable oil or use a nonstick skillet to minimize added fat.
• Add More Vegetables: Increase the quantity of bell peppers or add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Serve Over Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair the stir-fry with steamed rice and a side of miso soup for a cozy family meal.
• Dinner Party: Serve alongside other dishes like dumplings, spring rolls, or an Asian-inspired salad for a complete spread.
• Meal Prep: Divide the stir-fry into individual containers with rice or noodles for a week’s worth of balanced meals.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula or wooden spoon (for stir-frying)
• Sharp knife (for slicing vegetables and shrimp prep)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

2. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or additional vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. What other vegetables can I add?
Broccoli, snap peas, zucchini, and carrots all pair well with shrimp and peppers in this stir-fry.

5. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the very end of cooking, just to heat them through, as they’re already cooked.

6. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too salty?
Use low-sodium soy sauce and taste the sauce before adding additional salt.

7. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can be used as a thickener in place of cornstarch.

8. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix the sauce ingredients and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick prep time, bold flavors, and customizable options, it’s a meal you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or enjoying it as-is, this stir-fry is sure to please everyone at the table. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen!

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