Quick & Easy Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry that’s ready in minutes, you’re in the right place. This dish combines tender shrimp with crisp broccoli in a flavorful, savory sauce for a healthy, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is both easy to prepare and packed with vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, this Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe that balances nutrition and taste effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: This Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, it delivers a nutrient-rich, well-balanced meal.
• Full of Flavor: The savory sauce, fresh garlic, and a hint of ginger create a mouthwatering combination that wakes up your taste buds.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of staples, this recipe is simple without sacrificing deliciousness.
• Flexible and Customizable: Easy to adjust based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry is rooted in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays an important role in achieving the perfect balance of taste, texture, and inviting color that makes this dish so appealing.

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen peeled shrimp work great and provide tender protein.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a salty depth and umami richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with fragrant, savory notes.
• Ginger: Finely grated ginger contributes a subtle spicy warmth that brightens the stir fry.
• Sesame Oil: Just a splash for a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for stir-frying and achieving a nice sear on the shrimp and broccoli.
• Optional Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce for a luscious finish.

Variations for Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry

Feel free to get creative with this Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry! It’s incredibly easy to tweak based on what you like or have available in your kitchen. Here are some ideas to customize the recipe.

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to bring heat to the dish.
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Double or triple the garlic for a bolder aroma and taste.
• Other Vegetables: Swap or add snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots for extra color and crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
• Low-Sodium Swap: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep it heart-healthy without losing flavor.

How to Make Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if needed, and cutting your broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince garlic and grate fresh ginger so everything is ready to go before cooking.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Briefly boil or steam broccoli florets for about 2 minutes to soften slightly while keeping their bright green color and crisp texture. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 5: Combine and Stir Fry

Add the blanched broccoli back into the pan with the garlic and ginger. Return the shrimp to the pan as well.

Step 6: Add Sauce

Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything together. If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it in now, cooking until sauce thickens.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once everything is heated through and coated in the sauce, remove from heat and get ready to enjoy your fresh, vibrant Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and turns rubbery if left too long; watch carefully for a pink, firm texture.
• Keep Broccoli Crisp: Blanching keeps broccoli bright and prevents it from becoming mushy during stir frying.
• Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before heating the pan to ensure quick, even cooking.
• Use High Heat: Stir frying at high heat gives you the best sear and locks in flavors.
• Customize Your Sauce: Adjust soy sauce quantity or add honey for sweetness to suit your palate.

How to Serve Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry

Garnishes

Fresh chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice add color and brighten the dish at the end.

Side Dishes

Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a filling meal, or alongside noodles for a comforting twist. A fresh cucumber salad also makes a refreshing side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, try serving in lettuce cups as wraps or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that lets the stir fry star.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; separate into portions, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to keep the shrimp tender and broccoli crisp, or use a microwave with short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the stir fry?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely, then pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be. Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

Can I substitute other vegetables for broccoli?

Yes! Vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots work well and add variety to your stir fry.

What can I use instead of sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can skip it or use a small amount of toasted peanut or olive oil for a different flavor profile.

How spicy is this Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a vibrant, healthy, and fast meal any day of the week. With fresh ingredients, a simple sauce, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close to your heart for those busy nights or anytime you crave something both light and satisfying. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Related Posts

• Why Milk Bread Loaf Makes Perfect Toast Every Time
• Easy Spinach Turkey Meatballs for Busy Nights
• Why Garlic Chicken Ramen Is a Must-Try Meal

Print