If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and quick to whip up after a busy day, this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is exactly what you need. The tender, juicy shrimp combined with the sweet crunch of red and yellow bell peppers creates a perfect harmony in every bite. The sauce adds a subtle tangy, savory kick that elevates the stir-fry to something truly memorable. Trust me, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests.

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is essential, but for this dish, simplicity is key. Each item plays an important role—from the fresh shrimp that bring a delicate sweetness to the colorful bell peppers that add crunch and vitality, to the zingy sauce that ties it all together.

Large shrimp (1 lb / 450g): Peeled and deveined for easy cooking and the star protein of the dish.
Red bell pepper (1): Adds bright color and a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Yellow bell pepper (1): Provides a contrasting hue and crisp texture to the stir-fry.
Small onion (1): Sliced thinly to melt slightly and enhance the overall savoriness.
Garlic (2 cloves): Minced for a punch of aromatic depth.
Vegetable or sesame oil (1 tbsp): The perfect medium for stir-frying while infusing subtle nuttiness if using sesame.
Fresh ginger (1 tsp): Grated to brighten and enliven the dish with warmth and zest.
Soy sauce (2 tbsp): A salty backbone that amplifies the umami in every bite.
Oyster sauce (1 tbsp, optional): For a richer, slightly sweet seafood dimension.
Rice vinegar or lime juice (1 tsp): Adds acidity to keep the flavors fresh and balanced.
Honey or brown sugar (1 tsp): Just a touch of sweetness to round out the sauce.
Red chili flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): A gentle heat boost if you like a little spice.
Cooked rice or noodles: The perfect bed to soak up all those wonderful juices.
Green onions (for garnish): Fresh sliced for a burst of color and a mild onion crunch.

How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Before you even heat the pan, take a moment to whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar (or lime juice), honey, and chili flakes in a small bowl. Setting this aside early lets the flavors meld while you cook, resulting in a perfectly balanced stir-fry sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet with a hint of tang.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat your chosen oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a bright pink and are just opaque inside. Be careful not to overcook because shrimp can get rubbery fast! Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside—this keeps them tender while you move on to the veggies.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Using the same pan, toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onion, and the colorful bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. This quick cooking retains their bright color and satisfying crunch, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the pan with the vegetables and pour your prepared sauce over everything. Toss it all together to coat each piece evenly and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and everything warms through. This final step marries all the flavors beautifully, delivering a stir-fry that is juicy, flavorful, and completely irresistible.

How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Garnishes

A scattering of sliced green onions on top adds more than just a pretty garnish. They bring a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to amp up the texture variation and nuttiness if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

While the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is often a satisfying standalone meal when served over steamed rice or noodles, pairing it with a side of steamed jasmine or basmati rice makes for an even more comforting experience. A crisp cucumber salad or some simple steamed greens like bok choy or broccoli can also complement the savory flavors with some freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re throwing a dinner party or simply want to impress, serve the stir-fry family-style on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs or microgreens. You can also wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on appetizer version. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and peppers will make your guests’ eyes light up before they take their first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture of the shrimp and peppers, it’s best to cool it quickly and store it without the rice or noodles if possible.

Freezing

This dish isn’t the best candidate for freezing as the bell peppers can become mushy and the shrimp slightly rubbery after thawing. If you want to prepare in advance, it’s better to freeze the individual ingredients separately, like shrimp or vegetables, but for best flavor and texture, fresh is always better here.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This helps retain the shrimp’s tender texture and keeps the vegetables from becoming soggy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as uneven heating can affect the dish’s delicate balance.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used as long as they are properly thawed and patted dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from diluting the stir-fry sauce and helps the shrimp sear nicely.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer a vegetarian option, you can use hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of mushroom-based sauce to mimic the umami depth.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes optional red chili flakes, so you can adjust the heat level to your taste. Leaving them out will keep the stir-fry mild and accessible to those sensitive to spice.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and oyster sauce substitutes if you want to keep it gluten-free while maintaining that rich flavor.

Is Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it works well for meal prep as it reheats nicely and stays flavorful for a couple of days. Just add fresh rice or noodles when you’re ready to eat to keep the texture fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about the simplicity and vibrant flavors of Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and fresh, perfect for hectic weekdays or casual weekends alike. Give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself reaching for those bell peppers and shrimp on a regular basis from now on!