Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry: A Flavorful and Quick Weeknight Dinner

When the craving for a flavorful yet healthy dinner strikes, few dishes deliver satisfaction like a sizzling Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a glossy garlic sauce, tossed with crisp vegetables, and served steaming hot over rice or noodles. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 30 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights or a quick, wholesome lunch.

The beauty of a garlic shrimp stir fry lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients — shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and colorful veggies — you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. The aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and the vibrant mix of textures ensures that every bite is satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a simple list of ingredients for a classic Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry, along with their estimated calorie count per serving. These values are approximate and may vary based on brands and portion sizes.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Large shrimp (peeled, deveined)	1 lb (450 g)	410 kcal
Olive oil or sesame oil	2 tbsp	240 kcal
Fresh garlic (minced)	4 cloves	16 kcal
Soy sauce (low-sodium)	3 tbsp	30 kcal
Honey or brown sugar	1 tbsp	64 kcal
Fresh ginger (grated)	1 tsp	2 kcal
Bell peppers (mixed colors, sliced)	2 cups	50 kcal
Broccoli florets	1 cup	30 kcal
Green onions (chopped)	2 stalks	10 kcal
Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)	1 cup	200 kcal

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp:
   Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly instead of steaming in the pan.
2. Make the stir fry sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. Set it aside while you cook the shrimp.
3. Sauté the shrimp:
   Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the vegetables:
   In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in minced garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir fry for about 3–4 minutes until the veggies are crisp-tender.
5. Combine everything:
   Return the shrimp to the pan, pour in the stir fry sauce, and toss well to coat. Allow it to simmer for another 1–2 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the shrimp.
6. Garnish and serve:
   Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Add spice: Mix in a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy garlic shrimp stir fry.
• Low-carb option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Add crunch: Toss in cashews or peanuts for texture and extra protein.
• Vegetable swaps: Try snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or baby corn for variety.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~480 kcal
Protein	36 g
Carbohydrates	30 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	820 mg
Sugar	8 g

This dish is high in lean protein, moderate in carbs, and rich in vitamins A and C from the fresh vegetables — a perfect balance for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic Asian-inspired meal.
• Rice noodles for a slurp-worthy twist.
• Quinoa for added protein and fiber.
• Fresh salad greens if you prefer a lighter, low-carb option.

Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime juice before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking — either by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes. Pat the shrimp dry before sautéing to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

2. What vegetables go well in a garlic shrimp stir fry?

The great thing about this dish is its flexibility. Popular choices include bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, and baby corn. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer for added color and crunch.

3. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it into the pan during the final 1–2 minutes of cooking. The sauce will thicken as it heats up and coat the shrimp beautifully.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance to save time. Cooked garlic shrimp stir fry also stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

5. What’s the best type of shrimp to use?

Use large or jumbo shrimp (26–30 count per pound) for the best flavor and texture. Choose peeled and deveined shrimp to make preparation easier. If possible, go for wild-caught shrimp for a fresher, more natural taste.

Conclusion

A Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is more than just a quick meal — it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and simple cooking. In under half an hour, you can create a dish that’s savory, wholesome, and restaurant-worthy. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be fast, fun, and incredibly delicious.