Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re craving something vibrant, quick, and bursting with flavor, this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is absolutely the way to go. It’s a perfect harmony of tender shrimp and colorful bell peppers, all coated in a savory, slightly spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with your culinary skills, this dish brings together freshness, crunch, and just the right amount of zest for a meal that feels both comforting and exciting. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it a beloved favorite you’ll find yourself returning to often.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients each play a crucial role in bringing the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry to life. From the sweet crunch of bell peppers to the zing of fresh ginger and garlic, every component adds layers of flavor, color, and texture.

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein of the dish, shrimp cooks quickly and offers a delicate, sweet flavor.
• 2 tbsp vegetable or sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a lovely nutty aroma, while vegetable oil keeps things neutral and light for stir-frying.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings vibrant color and a crisp, sweet bite to the stir-fry.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds brightness and visual appeal alongside the red pepper.
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Provides subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a sharp, aromatic punch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated: Adds warmth and a fresh zing that wakes up the palate.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce: This salty, umami-rich base enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional): Boosts savory depth and adds a touch of richness, but it’s completely fine to skip if you prefer.
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice): Gives the dish a gentle heat that livens things up without overpowering.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving: A comforting vehicle to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of green for the finish.

How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing the soy sauce, oyster sauce if you’re using it, and chili flakes in a small bowl. This simple combination creates the backbone of your stir-fry’s flavor—salty, slightly sweet, and a little bit spicy all at once. Setting it aside now means it’s ready to pour in when the time comes.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a tablespoon of your chosen oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn that beautiful pink color and curl just slightly. Removing them once cooked keeps the shrimp perfectly tender and prevents overcooking later.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp, meaning they still hold a slight crunch that adds texture to every bite. Then stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger—these will cook quickly for about a minute, releasing their wonderful fragrances that make your kitchen smell irresistible.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Return the cooked shrimp back to the pan, then pour the sauce over everything. Give it a good toss and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce coat all the ingredients evenly and warm through. This step is where all the flavors come together, giving you that irresistible harmony that is the hallmark of a great Stir-Fry.

How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions sprinkled on top add a burst of color and a layer of freshness that complements the cooked ingredients beautifully. They give the dish a clean, herbaceous note that brightens each mouthful.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice or your favorite noodles to carry that delicious sauce. For some extra balance, a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas adds crunch and more vibrant green to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make this dish even more special, serve the stir-fry in lettuce cups or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also add toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and a nutty touch to finish it off perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry again without extra cooking.

Freezing

While freezing seafood stir-fries is possible, the texture of the shrimp and vegetables might suffer slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze, store portions in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best quality.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Adding a splash of water or additional soy sauce can help keep it moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the stir-fry.

What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can leave it out or substitute with a little hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce for a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the shrimp for firm tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable-based sauces.

How spicy is the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry?

The chili flakes add a mild heat, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your preference or leave them out entirely.

What type of soy sauce works best?

For best results, use regular or light soy sauce for a balanced saltiness; low-sodium is also fine if you’re watching your salt intake.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so joyful about making and sharing this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry. It’s colorful, flavorful, and comes together in a flash, making it your go-to recipe when you want something fresh and satisfying without fuss. Give it a try soon—you might just find it becomes a favorite too!

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