If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, vibrant color, and satisfying textures, you’ve got to try this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe. It’s that perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The juicy shrimp paired with crisp-tender broccoli and a savory, slightly sweet sauce creates a harmony that will have you reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s a fabulous way to enjoy a healthy but indulgent dinner without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right makes all the difference, and this recipe keeps it simple but delicious. Each element plays a special role—fresh shrimp for protein, broccoli for crunch and nutrition, and a medley of sauces and seasonings that create a luscious glaze bursting with umami.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp are the star protein, cooking quickly to tender perfection.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil for high-heat cooking keeps everything sizzling without overpowering flavors.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Crisp, green broccoli adds essential vitamins and a satisfying bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant, savory kick that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Ginger lends a warm, zesty brightness that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This salty, savory base sauce ties flavors together seamlessly.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth packed with umami goodness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of honey balances the savoriness with gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Gives a subtle tang that refreshes and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Just a drizzle brings a nutty aroma that’s pure comfort food magic.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat to wake up your taste buds.
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds color and a mild, oniony crunch as a finishing touch.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish): Toasted seeds give a lovely texture and nutty flavor boost.
How to Make Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing layers of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will coat the shrimp and broccoli beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and pink. Shrimp cook super fast, so keep an eye on them! Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking later.
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil, then toss in the broccoli florets. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. You want it to hold a little bite to contrast with the tender shrimp.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet with the broccoli. Stir everything for about 1 minute until the kitchen smells fragrant and inviting. This step is crucial for building the aromatic foundation of the dish.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the shrimp to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture on top. Stir everything together so that the shrimp and broccoli are evenly coated in that glossy sauce. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly and cling to each bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds to add a fresh crunch and eye-catching detail that makes this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe feel special.
How to Serve Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Bright green onions and toasted sesame seeds are classic garnishes that add a pop of color and subtle texture. Feel free to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for extra zing and freshness.
Side Dishes
This stir-fried delight pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up all that incredible sauce. You could also serve with noodles or a simple quinoa salad for a wholesome meal that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style straight from the wok to keep it warm and inviting, or plate it individually on shallow bowls with rice neatly molded alongside. For a crowd-pleaser, arrange the broccoli and shrimp beautifully on a platter and garnish generously so everyone can dig in and enjoy the vibrant flavors together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp stay tender, and the broccoli keeps its crunchiness enough to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftovers, shrimp’s texture can become rubbery upon thawing. It’s best to freeze only if you plan to reheat gently or use the broccoli and sauce separately. For best freshness, enjoy this recipe fresh.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the shrimp’s tenderness and avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce when making the sauce. Fresh sliced chili peppers also work beautifully if you want a fresh kick.
Is it okay to substitute broccoli with other vegetables?
Yes, you can swap broccoli for snap peas, asparagus, or bell peppers for variation. Just adjust cooking times to keep vegetables crisp-tender.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh and swap oyster sauce for a vegetarian alternative like mushroom sauce or extra soy sauce.
What’s the best oil to use for stir-frying?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are great choices because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors, perfect for quick, high-heat cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients combined with a few thoughtful techniques create a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites for a healthy, tasty meal without the hassle. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen, too!
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Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli recipe combining tender shrimp and crisp broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet sauce made with soy, oyster sauce, and ginger. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Sauce and Oils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside for later use.
- Heat the Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for frying.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet and add the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet with the broccoli and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Finish Cooking: Cook the shrimp, broccoli, and sauce mixture for 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or fresh chili.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
