Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s vibrant, full of flavor, and ready in a flash, this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is an absolute winner. Bursting with colorful bell peppers, tender shrimp, and a garlicky, savory sauce, it’s a fantastic way to brighten up your weeknight dinners. This recipe balances sweet, salty, and umami notes perfectly, making each bite downright addictive. Whether you’re stir-frying for one or feeding a crowd, the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry means gathering some straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in the final dish. Fresh shrimp brings a tender, juicy sweetness while the peppers add a crisp bite and stunning color. Together with aromatics like garlic and onions, plus a punchy sauce, these essentials keep things simple yet flavorful.

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp work wonderfully, providing protein with a delicate texture.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma but vegetable oil holds up well under high heat.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color that livens up the dish.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Another colorful crunch that balances the shrimp beautifully.
• 1 small onion, sliced: Gives subtle sweetness and depth once stir-fried.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible fragrant foundation to the stir-fry.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari: Essential for a salty, savory base flavor.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Adds a layer of umami richness for those who want it.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional): Perfect for thickening the sauce to a glossy finish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Used sparingly to season without overpowering.
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving: Acts as the perfect base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Fresh green onions or cilantro, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness when served.

How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Start by heating half of your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add your shrimp and stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and are cooked through. It’s important not to overcook them here as they’ll get a bit more heat later. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep them juicy and tender.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, add the remaining oil to maintain all those lovely flavors left behind by the shrimp. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers, stirring frequently for 3 to 4 minutes. You want the vegetables tender but still retaining that satisfying crunch which adds texture and freshness. Just before they finish cooking, stir in the minced garlic. It’s amazing how popping garlic in last keeps its fragrant aroma alive without burning.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Shrimp

Next, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with your veggies. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce if you’re using it. Toss everything together gently so every bite is coated in that savory goodness. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, now is the time to stir in the cornstarch slurry. Keep cooking for a minute or two until the sauce clings to the shrimp and peppers with a glossy finish. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and you’re almost ready to eat!

Step 4: Serve it Up

The finishing touch is simple but satisfying: serve your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry hot over a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite noodles. The hearty base absorbs all the delicious juices and makes every forkful a comforting delight.

How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or vibrant cilantro add an extra layer of freshness and color that really brings the dish to life. Their slight herbal bite contrasts beautifully with the rich stir-fry, making each bite pop with flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple steamed rice or noodles, but for a little extra flair serve it alongside a crunchy Asian-style cucumber salad or some steamed bok choy. These sides balance the savory shrimp and peppers with crisp, cooling textures that refresh the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual meal, serve the stir-fry directly on a large platter and let everyone dig in family-style. If you want to impress guests, plate individual portions over molded rice or neatly twirled noodles, topped with the fresh garnishes. You could even stuff the stir-fry inside warm lettuce cups for a fun handheld version that delivers all the flavor with a different bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for a quick second meal or a tasty lunch option.

Freezing

While shrimp dishes are best fresh, you can freeze your stir-fry if needed. Place it in a freezer-safe container and use it within 1 month for the best flavor. Just know that the texture of the peppers might soften a bit after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and keep everything moist. Avoid microwaving if possible—you want to preserve that fresh stir-fry texture!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water that can steam your stir-fry.

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

You can leave it out or replace it with a little hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce. Each will change the flavor slightly but still keep the dish delicious.

Can I add other vegetables to the Stir-Fry?

Definitely! Snap peas, broccoli florets, or sliced mushrooms all work great and add a nice variety to the dish.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Using tamari instead of soy sauce makes it gluten-free. Just double-check any other sauces you add, like oyster sauce, for gluten content.

How spicy is the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce if you like a little kick.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tried this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry, you’ll see how easy it is to make a fresh, flavorful meal that feels special without complicated steps. It’s a fantastic recipe to have in your rotation whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself. So grab your wok, chop those colorful peppers, and dive into a stir-fry experience that’s fast, fun, and packed with flavor!

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