Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

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If you’re craving a vibrant, quick, and utterly delicious dinner, this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry hits all the right notes. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp paired with a colorful trio of bell peppers, all enveloped in a savory sauce that’s perfectly balanced with hints of sweetness and a touch of sesame. This dish not only bursts with flavor but brings a delightful crunch and freshness, making it a fantastic go-to meal that comes together in no time without skimping on taste or nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry lies in its simple yet essential ingredients — each one bringing unique color, texture, or flavor to the plate. From the sweet crunch of bell peppers to the succulent shrimp and the aromatic punch of ginger and garlic, these components blend seamlessly to create a harmonious dish.

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined: The star protein, providing a tender and delicate seafood flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and vibrant, eye-catching color.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Offers a mellow, sunny crunch perfect for balance.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Brings a slight bitterness and freshness that lifts the dish.
• 1 small onion, sliced: Provides subtle sweetness that caramelizes slightly during stir-frying.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth that melds beautifully with the other flavors.
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds a zesty, bright kick that elevates the entire stir-fry.
• 2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil: Essential for sautéing and achieving a luscious texture.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari: The savory backbone that brings umami and saltiness.
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional): Adds complexity and a slightly sweet seafood essence.
• 1 tsp sesame oil: Provides a toasty, nutty finish that’s signature to many stir-fries.
• 1 tsp honey or brown sugar: Balances savory flavors with a mild sweetness.
• 1/4 cup water or broth: Helps create a saucy consistency for coating all ingredients evenly.
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish): Give an extra crunch and a beautiful finishing touch.
• Sliced green onions (optional garnish): Add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and pop of green color.
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving: Perfect for soaking up every bit of that delicious sauce.

How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together soy sauce, oyster sauce if you’re using it, sesame oil, honey, and water or broth in a small bowl. This sauce is the magic behind the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry, perfectly balancing savory, sweet, and nutty flavors, so setting it aside now lets the ingredients meld wonderfully later in the cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn that beautiful pink and opaque color, signaling they’re cooked just right. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside to keep their tender texture intact.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger first to release their fragrant aromas. Follow with the sliced onion and the colorful bell peppers. Stir-fry everything for 3–4 minutes just until the vegetables are tender yet still retain a satisfying crispness. This creates a wonderful contrast in textures that elevates the whole dish.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in your prepared sauce and toss everything together so every bite is coated in that luscious mixture. Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the sauce to slightly thicken, making your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry irresistibly glossy and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve

Serve this vibrant stir-fry hot, spooned generously over fluffy cooked rice or a bed of noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle those optional sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for that extra burst of texture, flavor, and visual appeal.

How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Garnishes

Adding sesame seeds and sliced green onions as a garnish brings a subtle crunch and fresh brightness that perfectly complements the silky shrimp and tender peppers. They also add a lovely contrast in color making the dish even more enticing.

Side Dishes

While the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry can stand proudly on its own, pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or simple garlic noodles turns your meal into a comforting, satisfying feast. For lighter sides, a crisp cucumber salad with a tangy dressing adds refreshing balance and rounds out the dinner beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking outside the bowl? Serve this stir-fry inside warm lettuce cups for a fun, handheld treat or try topping a warm grain bowl with the stir-fry for a wholesome, nourishing twist. You can also sprinkle chopped peanuts or drizzle extra sesame oil to intensify the flavors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Put any leftover Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or quick dinner option without sacrificing any flavor.

Freezing

Because shrimp can become rubbery when frozen then thawed, it’s best to freeze only if necessary. If you do, store the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw it slowly overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to help revive the crispness of the peppers and to warm the shrimp evenly. Adding a splash of water or broth can refresh the sauce and prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving whenever possible to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking, pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, and adjust the cooking time as needed since frozen shrimp may release water during cooking.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

No worries! The oyster sauce adds richness, but you can simply omit it or replace it with extra soy sauce and a dash of fish sauce for a similar depth of flavor.

Can I substitute the bell peppers with other vegetables?

Definitely! Snap peas, snap beans, or even thinly sliced carrots work wonderfully in this stir-fry, offering great texture and sweetness while keeping the dish colorful and vibrant.

Is this recipe spicy? Can I add heat?

The base recipe is mild, but feel free to add sliced fresh chili, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of chili oil to bring the heat level up to your taste preference.

What’s the best way to prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking causes them to become tough and rubbery, so watch them closely during stir-frying.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is one of those meals that feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together with little effort but big rewards. Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a busy weeknight or serving friends and family something impressive yet straightforward, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple. Go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy every colorful, flavorful bite!

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