If you’re craving a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in a flash, this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender shrimp mingle with colorful bell peppers and a punchy, savory sauce to create a dish that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is irresistible to the palate. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something light yet filling, this stir-fry pairs freshness and boldness in every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each one bringing its unique character to the dish — from the succulent shrimp to the crisp bell peppers and the aromatic ginger and garlic that make the flavors pop.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Provides tender, protein-packed seafood flavor that’s the star of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of saltiness, perfect for marinating the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Creates a light coating on the shrimp to help them sear beautifully and thicken the sauce later.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses a subtle nuttiness and enhances the stir-fry’s aroma.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Brings sweet crunch and vibrant red color that makes the dish pop visually and texturally.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Adds a fresh, slightly tangy bite and a lovely green hue for balance.
- ½ yellow onion (sliced): Offers natural sweetness and a slight bite that complements the peppers perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a fragrant and savory punch essential for any good stir-fry.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds warmth and a gentle zing that brightens the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Provides the high-heat cooking base needed for a quick and even stir-fry.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Works with oyster sauce to create a rich and balanced stir-fry sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a silky, slightly sweet complexity that lifts all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to brighten and balance the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar: Gives just the right hint of sweetness to meld the flavors together.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat that can be adjusted to taste, perfect for those who love a little kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The final seasoning touch to enhance every bite.
How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by tossing the shrimp with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. This small step is crucial — it not only seasons the shrimp gently but also helps to create a silky, slightly crispy coating once cooked. Let it rest while you prepare the vegetables so the flavors start to meld.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. This sauce will be the star behind the scenes, adding the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors that elevate the stir-fry to restaurant quality.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until they turn pink and curl up nicely — just cooked through but still juicy. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside. This ensures they don’t overcook later.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, pour in 1 tablespoon sesame oil, which adds a nutty aroma. Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers and yellow onion. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re crisp-tender — you want them bright and vibrant, not mushy.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Now, add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds. This quick step releases their fragrant oils and builds the depth of flavor that makes this stir-fry so unforgettable.
Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the shrimp to the pan, pour in the pre-mixed sauce, and toss everything together. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened, coating the shrimp and vegetables perfectly. Season to taste with salt and pepper if needed.
How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To add even more flavor and sparkle, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions on top just before serving. A handful of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the entire dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe shines when served over steamed jasmine rice or your favorite noodles. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens. Pairing with simple sides like a cucumber salad or steamed broccoli can create a well-rounded meal without competing with the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this stir-fry in warm lettuce cups to make it hand-held and fresh. Alternatively, layering it over quinoa or even stuffing it into warm pita pockets can turn this dish into a casual, yet flavorful, lunch option. Its vibrant colors also make it a fantastic centerpiece for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp tender and veggies crisp, store the sauce separately if possible and combine just before reheating.
Freezing
Because shrimp can become rubbery after freezing, this dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. However, if needed, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and vegetable mixture (without the sauce) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Microwaving can work in a pinch but may lead to uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating so they cook evenly and don’t release excess water into the stir-fry.
What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little sugar as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be quite as rich and savory as with oyster sauce.
Is this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap regular soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Ensure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free or use a safe alternative.
Can I add more vegetables to the stir-fry?
Yes, adding broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or even baby corn can enhance the dish with more texture and nutrients. Just add them during the vegetable stir-fry step and adjust cooking time slightly.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a mild heat, but you can easily adjust or omit them based on your spice preference. Adding fresh chili slices can increase spiciness for those who like it hot.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite—easy to make, bursting with vibrant flavors, and ready in under half an hour. It’s perfect for treating yourself on a busy day or impressing friends at a casual dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own twist to this colorful, tasty classic!
Print
Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired main course featuring tender shrimp and crisp bell peppers tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner, it combines fresh vegetables, aromatic garlic and ginger, and a hint of sweetness for a balanced meal that’s delicious over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- ½ yellow onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Oils and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch. Let it sit while you prepare the vegetables and sauce so the shrimp can absorb the flavors and the cornstarch helps create a velvety texture when cooked.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside to use later.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sesame oil. Then add the sliced bell peppers and onion, stir-frying for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. This helps the vegetables retain some crunch and fresh flavor.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly to release their aroma without burning.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Toss everything together to evenly coat the shrimp and vegetables with the sauce. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce bubbles and thickens slightly, enhancing the flavors.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari sauce.
- Prepping all ingredients before starting ensures quick and smooth cooking since this dish cooks rapidly.
