Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp and vegetable stir-fry recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp, this dish is a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition, making it a go-to for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Add broccoli and snow peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Push the vegetables and shrimp to one side of the wok. Add the minced garlic to the empty space and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the sauce over everything and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the shrimp and vegetable stir-fry immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables provide the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or less red pepper flakes to control the heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
Variations:
- Add protein: Chicken, tofu, or beef can be substituted for shrimp.
- Change up the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of ginger or a sprinkle of Sichuan peppercorns for extra flavor.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or cashew butter for a creamy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This shrimp and vegetable stir-fry recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both quick and easy to make. It’s a perfect recipe for those looking for healthy meals and simple dinner solutions. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and making it your own! This simple recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a truly versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.