Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry
why make this recipe
Shrimp and vegetable stir fry is a fantastic dish that combines flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. This recipe is an excellent way to enjoy seafood while making sure you’re eating plenty of vegetables. It’s quick to cook, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy meal on the table fast. The vibrant colors of the mixed vegetables, paired with tender shrimp, create an attractive plate that is sure to entice everyone at the dinner table. You can customize the vegetables to your liking, and you can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Health-conscious eaters will appreciate this dish as it’s low in calories but high in protein and essential nutrients.
how to make Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry
Making shrimp and vegetable stir fry is simple and requires just a few steps. Follow along to create a delicious meal that warms your heart and fills your stomach. You can do it all in a single skillet or a wok, which means less cleanup afterward, and who doesn’t love that? Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (you can use bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions:
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Heat Vegetable Oil: Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. It won’t take long for the oil to get hot enough.
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Sauté Garlic and Ginger: Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they release their fragrant aroma. This step is crucial; the scent will fill your kitchen and whet everyone’s appetite.
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Cook the Shrimp: Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Pink shrimp signal that they are cooked through; you don’t want to overcook them, as they can become tough.
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Add Mixed Vegetables: After the shrimp are cooked, it’s time to add the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry them for an additional 4-5 minutes. You want them to become tender-crisp, meaning they will still have a slight snap when bitten into. This adds a delightful crunch to your dish.
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Add Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, tossing everything in the skillet to ensure the shrimp and vegetables get evenly coated. This is where most of the flavor comes from, so don’t skimp on this step.
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Drizzle Sesame Oil: Finally, drizzle the sesame oil over the entire stir fry before serving. This gives it a lovely nutty finish that can elevate the flavor even more.
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Serve Hot: Serve the stir fry hot over a bed of cooked rice. This will soak up the extra sauce and make your plate complete.
how to serve Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry
Serving shrimp and vegetable stir fry is just as important as making it. To make the presentation appealing, consider using a shallow bowl or a plate with a slight lip. This will help contain the stir fry and keep the rice from sliding off. Place a generous serving of cooked rice in the center of the plate, and then heap the shrimp and vegetable mixture on top. You can garnish the dish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch. This not only enhances the look but also adds a little more flavor. Pair it with a side of soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for those who like an extra kick.
how to store Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry
If you find yourself with leftovers (though this dish is usually devoured quickly!), storing it is straightforward. Allow the stir fry to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. This will prevent condensation and keep your food fresh. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating in the microwave, do so in short intervals and stir in between to ensure even heating. The flavors may intensify a bit after sitting in the fridge, giving you another enjoyable meal.
tips to make Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry
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Prep Ahead: To save time on busy evenings, prep your ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and marinate the shrimp if desired. This way, when you’re ready to cook, everything is on hand.
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Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables not only taste better, but they also add vibrant colors to your dish. Look for crisp veggies that are in season.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you are making a large batch, consider cooking in batches to ensure everything gets stir-fried properly. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of frying, resulting in a soggy dish.
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Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have or prefer. Zucchini, snow peas, and mushrooms are all excellent alternatives.
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Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.
variation
There are many variations of shrimp and vegetable stir fry. You can change the protein by swapping shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu, depending on your dietary preferences. Each option takes on the flavors beautifully while providing a different texture and taste. You can also change up the sauce; for a sweeter version, add honey or brown sugar. For a zesty twist, squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen shrimp can be used and are often more convenient. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What vegetables can I use?
You can use almost any vegetable you enjoy. Some good options besides those mentioned are zucchini, mushrooms, baby corn, and green beans.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to cook it fresh for the best texture. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This stir fry is perfect for meal prep. Just divide it into portions and store them in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What can I serve with this dish?
This shrimp and vegetable stir fry is excellent on its own, but you can also serve it with spring rolls, dumplings, or a simple side salad to round out your meal.
Preparing shrimp and vegetable stir fry is not only easy and quick, but it’s also a delightful way to bring healthy and delicious meals to your dining table. It’s the perfect dish to ensure your family enjoys nutritious foods while experiencing the rich flavors that a homemade stir fry can offer. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every colorful bite!
