Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry Recipe

If you love vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a quick meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your need for something wholesome, then this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is just what you’ve been waiting for. It’s a fantastic combination of tender, juicy shrimp paired with crisp, sweet bell peppers, all cooked together in a savory soy-based sauce that brings everything to life. This dish is fresh, colorful, and so delightfully simple that you’ll find yourself making it again and again whenever dinner time calls for something special yet fuss-free.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry, you only need a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that work in harmony to give each bite a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Every item plays a crucial role, from the succulent shrimp to the trio of bell peppers, ensuring that the dish never feels one-dimensional.

• Large shrimp (1 lb or 450 g): Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease and quick cooking time.
• Red bell pepper (1): Brings sweetness and vibrant red color to the stir-fry.
• Yellow bell pepper (1): Adds bright sunshine-yellow hues and subtle fruity notes.
• Green bell pepper (1): Offers a slightly bitter crunch that balances the sweeter peppers.
• Vegetable or sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Sesame oil gives a wonderful nutty aroma, while vegetable oil keeps it neutral.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for that aromatic kick and depth of flavor.
• Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Adds a zesty warmth that livens up the dish.
• Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): The salty backbone that ties all the ingredients together.
• Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): Offers a rich, savory dimension, elevating the dish to something special.
• Cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water, optional): Great for thickening the sauce if you prefer a glossy coating.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Gives just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
• Green onions (2, sliced): Fresh garnish that adds a mild onion crunch and color.
• Cooked rice or noodles: Perfect to soak up all the delicious sauce and complete the meal.

How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with a paper towel—this is an easy trick that helps the shrimp sear nicely instead of steaming. Lightly season them with black pepper to enhance their natural sweetness without overshadowing the sauce later.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of your chosen oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger first to infuse the oil with their warm aromas, sautéing for about 30 seconds. Then add the sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender but still have a satisfying crispness—you want that fresh snap to shine through. Remove the vegetables and set them aside so they don’t overcook.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Place the shrimp in, spreading them out so they cook evenly. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking preserves their juicy texture, which is a highlight of the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the colorful bell peppers to the pan with the shrimp. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce if you’re using it. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp and veggies evenly. If you want a thicker sauce that clings beautifully to every bite, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until you notice it thickening slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your stir-fry piping hot on a bed of fluffy steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle the sliced green onions on top—they give an added pop of color and freshness that makes the dish irresistible.

How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry from great to truly memorable. Fresh green onions are classic, but feel free to sprinkle in toasted sesame seeds for a bit of crunch or even a few red chili flakes if you like a touch of heat. A wedge of lime on the side can also add a lovely citrus brightness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with plain steamed rice or jasmine rice, which lets those fantastic stir-fry flavors really shine. Alternatively, chow mein noodles, soba noodles, or even quinoa can provide a unique twist that complements the shrimp and peppers beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, casual meal, serve the stir-fry in individual bowls with the rice base topped by your shrimp and peppers. For a more elegant presentation, neatly arrange the shrimp and peppers on a platter garnished with the green onions and sesame seeds, letting your guests serve themselves. Either way, this visually stunning Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of this wondrous Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, allowing you an easy and delicious reheat option for lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

While shrimp dishes can sometimes be tricky to freeze due to texture changes, you can freeze the stir-fry without the rice or noodles. Place it in a freezer-safe container and use it within 1 month for best flavor. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is in a skillet over medium heat. This method keeps the shrimp tender and revives the crispness of the peppers. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery, but if short on time, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Stir-Fry?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work great in this dish.

What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can skip it or substitute it with a splash of hoisin sauce or even extra soy sauce for that savory umami taste.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make the Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and omitting oyster sauce or using a gluten-free version of it.

How spicy is this Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry?

As written, this stir-fry is mild, focusing on savory and sweet flavors. If you crave a bit of heat, feel free to add chili flakes, fresh chopped chilies, or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?

Definitely! Snap peas, broccoli, or carrots would all be excellent additions and blend seamlessly into the dish, adding more texture and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is truly a winner in every kitchen, proof that quick meals don’t have to compromise on flavor or freshness. I wholeheartedly encourage you to whip it up soon—its beautiful colors, lively flavors, and quick prep will become a comforting go-to that your family and friends will love as much as you do.