Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Name: Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup sugar snap peas; 1/2 cup carrots, julienned; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp freshly grated ginger; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced; Cooked white rice for serving

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 10 min

🍽 Serves: 8

This Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is a quick, vibrant dish that combines the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic with perfectly cooked shrimp and crisp vegetables. It's a perfect weeknight meal that feels special but comes together in a flash.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh, zesty flavors that pop with every bite.
Healthy and colorful, with a beautiful variety of vegetables.
Customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 cup sugar snap peas

1/2 cup carrots, julienned

1 lemon, zested and juiced

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp freshly grated ginger

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

2 green onions, sliced

Cooked white rice for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them around for about a minute until they’re fragrant and your kitchen smells like heaven. Next, toss in the shrimp. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. You'll want to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the red bell pepper, sugar snap peas, and julienned carrots. Stir-fry these for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for tender-crisp vegetables that have that perfect bite.

Once the veggies are ready, return the shrimp to the skillet. Now, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey. Stir everything well so that the shrimp and vegetables are coated with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then cook for another 2 minutes to let everything heat through.

To finish, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. Serve this delightful stir fry over a bed of cooked white rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
Use a non-stick skillet to ensure the shrimp cook evenly without sticking.
If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and ginger.

Serving Suggestions

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with jasmine or basmati rice. For a lower-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice. A side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad complements the dish nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?: Yes, just be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.
What if I don't have fresh ginger?: You can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, but the flavor will be less vibrant.

Ingredients Explained

Shrimp are the star of this dish, offering a lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Olive oil is used for its rich flavor and healthy fats. Garlic and ginger add a fragrant, spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey. Red bell pepper, sugar snap peas, and carrots provide a satisfying crunch and a splash of color. The lemon ties everything together with its bright zest and juice. Soy sauce adds a savory depth, while salt and black pepper enhance the overall taste. Toasted sesame seeds and green onions finish the dish with a nutty flavor and a fresh, crisp garnish.

Simplified Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Toss in shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, red bell pepper, sugar snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Return shrimp to the skillet, then add lemon zest, lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and continue cooking for another 2 minutes to heat through.

7. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving over cooked white rice.

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