Easy Healthy Shrimp Stir Fry Dinner

Name: Easy Healthy Shrimp Stir Fry Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love making this Easy Healthy Shrimp Stir Fry Dinner on busy weeknights when time is of the essence but I still want something nutritious and delicious. The combination of fresh veggies and tender shrimp is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Plus, the bright colors of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots make the dish visually appealing, which is a bonus when serving it to family or friends. In just 20 minutes, I can enjoy a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly healthy.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:10:36.957Z

When I first tried my hand at making a shrimp stir fry, I was amazed at how simple it was to whip up something so tasty and healthy in just a matter of minutes. I experimented with different vegetables and sauces until I found the perfect balance. The key to getting that delicious stir fry flavor? High heat and quick cooking! This method really elevates the natural taste of the shrimp and vegetables.

One of my favorite tips is to keep the shrimp slightly undercooked at first—this way, they retain a juicy tenderness that continues to cook through even after being taken off the heat. Pairing it with a hint of sesame oil and fresh garlic gives the dish an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time without sacrificing flavor
Packed with colorful, nutritious vegetables
A perfect balance of protein and veggies for a healthy meal

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The key to a vibrant and delicious stir fry lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Using fresh vegetables not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the overall nutritional value. When selecting broccoli, opt for bright green florets that are firm to the touch. For bell peppers, rich colored varieties like red, yellow, and orange not only boost the visual appeal but also offer a range of flavors from sweet to slightly tangy.

Since the garlic in this recipe adds a strong aromatic flavor, be sure to mince it finely to release the essential oils. This will maximize its presence in the stir fry. A common mistake is overcooking the garlic, which can make it bitter. Add the garlic only once the shrimp are half-cooked, allowing it to infuse its flavor without compromising its quality.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Stir frying is all about high heat and quick cooking, so make sure your pan is hot before adding any ingredients. Use a large skillet or wok for proper airflow; this will help prevent steaming and promote that desirable stir-fry texture. The vegetables should sizzle upon hitting the pan, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp but still vibrant in color.

When adding shrimp, avoid crowding the pan, as it can cause them to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook them in batches to ensure they turn pink and firm up perfectly within 2-3 minutes. An easy visual cue is observing their color change from gray to a delightful pink, indicating they are done.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Mix and match vegetables according to your preference or availability.

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and chop all the vegetables. Ensure the shrimp is thawed and patted dry for better searing.

Stir Fry the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Add Shrimp and Season

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Stir in the garlic and soy sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish with Sesame Oil

Once the shrimp are fully cooked, drizzle sesame oil over the stir fry, mix well, and remove from heat.

Serve

Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or quinoa, and enjoy your healthy meal!

Feel free to garnish with sesame seeds or scallions for added flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Easy Healthy Shrimp Stir Fry can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook the shrimp and vegetables, then let them cool at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a pan over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

If you want to freeze your stir fry, pack individual portions into freezer-safe containers. It can stay fresh for about two months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed as you would for refrigerated leftovers, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life and prevent dryness.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize this stir fry to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Swap out shrimp for chicken, tofu, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure to use tamari instead of soy sauce, and opt for gluten-free quinoa or rice.

Experiment with different sauces or spices to find your own unique flavor combo. Adding a splash of rice vinegar can brighten up the dish, while a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can introduce a spicy kick. Try this recipe with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for a fresh twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can use snap peas, zucchini, or asparagus, depending on your preference and what's in season.

→ How can I make this stir fry gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! This stir fry stores well in the fridge for up to three days and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.