Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

If you are looking for a vibrant, quick, and flavorful dish that will light up your dinner table, this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is an absolute winner. Combining succulent shrimp with the sweet crunch of colorful bell peppers, every bite bursts with a delightful mix of textures and savory notes. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels special and indulgent without requiring a mountain of time or complicated ingredients. Trust me, once you try this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry, it’s going to become your go-to recipe whenever you want something both fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, yet every single one plays an important role in creating a harmonious balance of taste, color, and texture in your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry. From the sweetness of peppers to the aromatic punch of garlic and ginger, each component elevates the dish effortlessly.

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: This is the star protein, tender and quick-cooking for perfect texture.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil for high-heat cooking that helps everything cook evenly.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a deep, fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated: Brings a warm, zesty flavor to brighten the whole dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Provides a sweet crunch and vibrant red color.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and a sunny hue for visual appeal.
• 1 small onion, sliced: Gives a mild sharpness and soft texture when cooked.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari: Brings umami and saltiness that ties the flavors together.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Offers a rich, savory depth but can be skipped if preferred.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a subtle nutty aroma as a finishing touch.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: For seasoning to your personal preference.
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving: The perfect base to soak up all the delicious juices.
• Green onions or sesame seeds, for garnish: Adds freshness and a touch of crunch for presentation.

How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Before you start cooking your shrimp and vegetables, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce if you’re using it, and sesame oil in a small bowl. This combination sets the savory foundation for the dish, layering in richness and a touch of nuttiness that makes the stir-fry so irresistible.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add your shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until their color changes to vibrant pink and the texture becomes firm yet tender. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside – you’ll add them back soon to soak up all the sauce.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan, then toss in your minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step is essential because it infuses the oil with those bright, inviting flavors. Next, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the onions. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender—just cooked enough to retain a bit of their natural crunch and their gorgeous vibrant color.

Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan with your vegetables, then pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss the ingredients together and let them cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, just long enough for the shrimp to heat through and the sauce to coat every bite. This final step really brings all the flavors together in harmony. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste to perfect the balance.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your gorgeous Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry immediately over your choice of steamed rice or noodles. This dish looks as good as it tastes, packed with bold colors and tempting aromas that promise a satisfying meal in every serving.

How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Garnishes

Garnishing your dish with thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely contrast of color and texture. These simple additions make the dish look restaurant-ready and add a subtle flavor boost that complements the shrimp and peppers perfectly.

Side Dishes

While the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry stands beautifully on its own atop rice or noodles, pairing it with a side of steamed greens like bok choy or broccoli can add freshness and more crunch. Another fabulous way to round out the meal is with a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party presentation, serve the stir-fry in individual lettuce cups or inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful twist. Alternatively, layering it over fried rice or inside warm tortillas with a drizzle of a spicy mayo can provide a delightful fusion flare that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or quick dinner option.

Freezing

While shrimp tend to lose their ideal texture after freezing and reheating, if you want to freeze this dish, separate the shrimp from the vegetables and freeze each component in appropriate containers. This way, you can defrost and reheat them gently without sacrificing too much quality.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat until just heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the vegetables soggy. Adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil while reheating can help revive the flavors.

FAQs

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

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can steam your ingredients instead of stir-frying them.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can skip the oyster sauce or substitute it with a little hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce for a slightly different but still delicious taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply replace shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable-based sauces to keep the flavor vibrant and satisfying.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mildly spicy by default if you add red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount or omit them altogether to make it as mild or spicy as you like.

What’s the best way to slice the bell peppers?

Slicing bell peppers into thin strips helps them cook quickly and evenly, preserving their sweet flavor and beautiful color in the stir-fry.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry really shines as a wholesome, delicious dish that’s as colorful as it is tasty. It’s a fantastic way to bring something fresh yet familiar to your dinner rotation. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I love sharing it – happy cooking!