Sizzling Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe for Weeknight Magic

Whipping up a delectable shrimp and pepper stir-fry can turn an ordinary weeknight into a culinary adventure.

Succulent seafood meets vibrant vegetables in this quick and zesty dish.

Crisp bell peppers dance alongside plump, juicy shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Minimal ingredients and lightning-fast cooking time mean you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 20 minutes.

Every bite promises a perfect balance of tender protein and crunchy vegetables, seasoned with aromatic spices.

Fragrant garlic and ginger add depth to this simple yet impressive recipe.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides a delicate and sweet flavor to the stir-fry.

• Bell Peppers, Garlic: Colorful peppers add crunch and sweetness, while garlic brings depth and aromatic notes to the dish.

• Soy Sauce, Hoisin Sauce, Sesame Oil, Red Pepper Flakes: A combination of sauces that create a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile for the stir-fry.

• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil used for sautéing and creating a non-stick surface in the skillet.

• Sesame Seeds, Green Onions: Provide a subtle nutty crunch and fresh, mild onion flavor to enhance the final presentation.

• Rice: A classic accompaniment that absorbs the flavorful sauce and completes the meal.

Step-by-Step Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Instructions

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatics

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around until its fragrant aroma fills your kitchen, creating a mouthwatering base for your stir-fry.

Step 2: Sear Succulent Shrimp

Drop the shrimp into the hot skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for the magical transformation as they turn from translucent to a beautiful pink and opaque. Once done, gently transfer them to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Roast Vibrant Peppers

Using the same skillet, introduce sliced bell peppers. Let them sizzle and soften for 4-5 minutes, developing a tender texture and capturing those delightful caramelized edges.

Step 4: Create Flavor Explosion

• Soy sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Sesame oil
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat lovers)

Stir everything together, letting the sauces mingle and create a rich, glossy coating.

Step 5: Reunite and Finish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing them in the luscious sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to harmonize.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Serve this spectacular stir-fry over a bed of fluffy rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

• Opt for fresh, large shrimp to ensure a succulent and tender texture in your stir-fry.
• Slice bell peppers uniformly for even cooking and attractive presentation.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery, tough meat; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Enhance flavor by marinating shrimp in soy sauce and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Swap rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly version of this delicious dish.

Variations on Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry to Try

• Spicy Thai Fusion: Replace hoisin sauce with Thai chili sauce and add fresh lemongrass for an authentic Southeast Asian flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Splash: Swap soy sauce with white wine, add oregano and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Coconut Curry Splash: Incorporate coconut milk and yellow curry powder, creating a creamy and aromatic stir-fry with complex spice layers.
• Pineapple Tropical Remix: Include diced fresh pineapple chunks and a splash of pineapple juice for a sweet and tangy Caribbean-style meal.

Best Pairings for Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

• Elevate Flavor with Perfect Pairings
• Boost Wine Selection: Crisp, light Sauvignon Blanc complements the shrimp's delicate texture and cuts through the rich, savory sauce with its bright acidity.
• Enhance Beverage Choice: Refreshing Japanese Asahi beer provides a clean, crisp counterpoint to the stir-fry's spicy and umami notes, cleansing the palate between bites.
• Match Side Dish: Cooling cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing balances the dish's warmth, adding a fresh, tangy element that brightens the overall meal experience.
• Complete Plate Harmony: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a protein-rich side that echoes the seafood theme while providing a light, green contrast to the colorful pepper stir-fry.

How to Store Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Safely

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Pack cooled stir-fry in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Freeze without rice to prevent texture changes.
• Warm over medium heat with a splash of oil. Stir gently to prevent shrimp from overcooking and maintain moisture. Takes about 3-4 minutes.
• Use 50% power to prevent rubbery shrimp. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Add a tablespoon of water to prevent drying out.

FAQs About Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

• How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

Look for a pink, opaque color and a slight curl in the shrimp. They should take only 2-3 minutes per side to cook completely.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper searing and prevent excess water in the skillet.

• What if I don't have hoisin sauce?

You can substitute with a mix of soy sauce, ketchup, and a touch of honey to create a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile.

• Is this dish spicy?

The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes for heat. You can adjust the amount or skip them entirely for a mild version.

Why Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Is a Quick, Tasty Dish

• Speedy Weeknight Wonder: Dive into a delicious meal that comes together in minutes, perfect for busy families craving a quick and satisfying dinner.
• Flavor-Packed Delight: Combine zesty garlic, sweet bell peppers, and succulent shrimp with a tantalizing sauce that brings bold Asian-inspired flavors to your plate.
• Versatile Cooking Technique: Master a simple stir-fry method that works with various proteins and vegetables, making this recipe a go-to for flexible meal preparation.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by adding red pepper flakes, allowing everyone to enjoy the dish according to their personal taste preferences.

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

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4.8 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 17-20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling shrimp and pepper stir-fry delivers bold Asian-inspired flavors in minutes. Quick weeknight dinner magic happens when fresh ingredients dance together in a hot wok, promising satisfaction for hungry families craving zesty, nutritious meals.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound (453 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined

Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Sauces and Oils:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Serving:

• Cooked rice

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Instructions

1. Warm a large skillet with vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, then sauté minced garlic for 30-45 seconds until aromatic.
2. Introduce shrimp to the hot skillet, cooking approximately 2 minutes per side until they transform to a vibrant pink and appear translucent throughout. Transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
3. Within the same skillet, spread sliced bell peppers in a single layer, allowing them to caramelize and soften for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Create a flavorful sauce by combining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil directly in the skillet, whisking to integrate. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for an optional spicy kick.
5. Reintroduce the cooked shrimp into the pepper and sauce mixture, gently tossing to ensure complete coating and reheating for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Plate the stir-fry atop steamed rice, then garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

• Optimize shrimp texture by patting them dry with paper towels before cooking to prevent excess moisture and ensure perfect searing.
• Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes, making the dish adaptable for mild or hot flavor preferences.
• Swap protein effortlessly by replacing shrimp with chicken, tofu, or beef for diverse dietary needs and taste variations.
• Enhance vegetable nutrition by adding extra colorful bell peppers or incorporating additional quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas or zucchini for more texture and nutrients.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg