Garlic Sesame Shrimp Stir Fry Flavorful Weeknight Meal

September 15, 2025 by Elena

Looking for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner? You’ll love this Garlic Sesame Shrimp Stir Fry! Packed with fresh shrimp, vibrant veggies, and a savory sauce, this dish comes together in minutes. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home-cook looking to impress, this meal is easy and delicious. Let’s dive in and create a flavorful stir fry that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated

The large shrimp are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors well. I always use fresh shrimp when possible. It makes a big difference! Sesame oil gives the dish a rich, nutty taste. Use high-quality oil for the best flavor. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth to the meal. Their aromas fill the kitchen and make cooking feel special.

Vegetables

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas

These vegetables add color and crunch. Bell peppers bring sweetness and vibrancy. I like to use red or yellow for their bright hues. Broccoli florets offer a nice texture and nutrients. Snap peas add a crisp bite and a touch of sweetness. I love the variety of colors on the plate. It makes the meal more inviting.

Sauce Components

3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

The sauce ties everything together. Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. I prefer low-sodium to control the salt level. Honey gives a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors. It adds a nice gloss to the dish too. Red pepper flakes add heat if you like spice. You can skip them if you prefer a milder taste. This sauce is quick to whip up and enhances the dish wonderfully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Marinating the shrimp

First, take 1 pound of large shrimp and place them in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, half of the minced garlic, and the grated ginger. Toss the shrimp well to coat them evenly. Let the shrimp sit for about 15 minutes. This helps to infuse flavor.

Preparing the skillet

While the shrimp marinate, heat the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet gets hot. This step is key for a good stir fry.

Cooking Process

Stir-frying shrimp

Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. When they are done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Cooking vegetables

In the same skillet, add the rest of the minced garlic. Stir it for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Next, add the thinly sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry these for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want the veggies to stay tender-crisp for the best texture.

Combining Ingredients

Adding the sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Pour this sauce over the shrimp and veggies. Toss everything well to coat.

Final cooking steps

Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the stir fry to a serving dish.

For a beautiful presentation, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve this dish over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Stir Fry

To make the best stir fry, avoid overcooking the shrimp. Cook them just until they turn pink. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.

For the vegetables, you want them tender yet crisp. Stir-fry the bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas for about 4 to 5 minutes. This keeps their bright colors and fresh taste.

Enhancing Flavor

If you want a twist on flavor, try alternatives to soy sauce. Coconut aminos or tamari can work great. They give a nice taste without being too salty.

Using fresh herbs as a garnish adds a pop of flavor. Chopped cilantro or basil can brighten the dish. They also make it look fancy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your stir fry with rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the sauce well and make your meal filling.

For presentation, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds color and texture. Serve it all in a large bowl to show off your work!

Variations

Protein Substitutes

If you want to switch up the protein in this dish, chicken and tofu work great. Chicken adds a hearty texture. Just cut it into small pieces and cook it until golden. Tofu is a perfect choice for a plant-based meal. Press it to remove excess water, then cube it before cooking. Both options absorb the flavors well.

You can also explore seafood variations. Scallops or calamari can add a different taste. Just adjust the cooking time so they don’t overcook.

Vegetable Swaps

Feel free to change the veggies based on what you have. Zucchini, carrots, or bok choy can add color and crunch. When you use seasonal produce, your stir fry tastes fresh and vibrant.

Try mixing in some leafy greens like spinach or kale. They wilt down nicely and boost nutrition.

Sauce Modifications

You might want to switch the sauce for a new flavor. Teriyaki sauce offers a sweet and savory twist. Chili sauce adds heat, giving your dish a spicy kick.

Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey. You can even use maple syrup for a different flavor. Mix and match to find your perfect balance!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it. You can store the Garlic Sesame Shrimp Stir Fry in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to eat again.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this stir fry for later meals. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and make sure it is sealed tight. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to help it steam.

Re-use Ideas

Leftover stir fry is not just a meal; it’s a chance to be creative. You can toss it into a salad for a crunchy lunch. Or, mix it with pasta for a quick dinner. You can also use it as a filling for wraps or tacos. Meal prep is easy too! You can make larger batches and pack them for busy days.

FAQs

How to make garlic sesame shrimp stir fry?

To make garlic sesame shrimp stir fry, follow these steps:

Marinate shrimp: Mix shrimp, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, half the minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Cook shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a skillet. Add marinated shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until pink.
Sauté garlic: Remove shrimp. Add remaining garlic to the skillet, stir for 30 seconds.
Add vegetables: Toss in sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
Combine everything: Return shrimp to the skillet. Mix soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes in a bowl, pour over the shrimp and veggies. Cook for 1-2 minutes more.

Essential techniques include marinating the shrimp for flavor and stir-frying to keep the dish quick and fresh.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Here are some tips:

Thawing: Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or place them in cold water for 30 minutes.
Cooking time: Frozen shrimp may need a minute longer to cook. Check that they are fully pink and opaque.

Always ensure your shrimp is fully thawed for even cooking.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

If you need to swap sesame oil, here are some alternatives:

Vegetable oil: This is a neutral choice that won’t alter the flavor much.
Peanut oil: Adds a nutty flavor, similar to sesame oil.
Olive oil: Good for a different taste but less authentic.

When substituting, you may need to adjust the amount to match your flavor preference.

This blog post covered how to make garlic sesame shrimp stir fry. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to elevate your dish. Exploring variations and storage options can help you customize the recipe. Remember, you can always swap proteins or veggies to fit your taste. Enjoying this quick meal is not just easy but fun. With practice, you’ll impress everyone with your stir fry skills. Cook and create your perfect version today!

$- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1-inch piece of ginger, grated The large shrimp are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors well. I always use fresh shrimp when possible. It makes a big difference! Sesame oil gives the dish a rich, nutty taste. Use high-quality oil for the best flavor. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth to the meal. Their aromas fill the kitchen and make cooking feel special. - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup snap peas These vegetables add color and crunch. Bell peppers bring sweetness and vibrancy. I like to use red or yellow for their bright hues. Broccoli florets offer a nice texture and nutrients. Snap peas add a crisp bite and a touch of sweetness. I love the variety of colors on the plate. It makes the meal more inviting. - 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium) - 2 tablespoons honey - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) The sauce ties everything together. Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. I prefer low-sodium to control the salt level. Honey gives a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors. It adds a nice gloss to the dish too. Red pepper flakes add heat if you like spice. You can skip them if you prefer a milder taste. This sauce is quick to whip up and enhances the dish wonderfully. Marinating the shrimp First, take 1 pound of large shrimp and place them in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, half of the minced garlic, and the grated ginger. Toss the shrimp well to coat them evenly. Let the shrimp sit for about 15 minutes. This helps to infuse flavor. Preparing the skillet While the shrimp marinate, heat the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet gets hot. This step is key for a good stir fry. Stir-frying shrimp Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. When they are done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Cooking vegetables In the same skillet, add the rest of the minced garlic. Stir it for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Next, add the thinly sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir-fry these for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want the veggies to stay tender-crisp for the best texture. Adding the sauce Now it’s time to bring everything together. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Pour this sauce over the shrimp and veggies. Toss everything well to coat. Final cooking steps Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the stir fry to a serving dish. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve this dish over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy! To make the best stir fry, avoid overcooking the shrimp. Cook them just until they turn pink. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. For the vegetables, you want them tender yet crisp. Stir-fry the bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas for about 4 to 5 minutes. This keeps their bright colors and fresh taste. If you want a twist on flavor, try alternatives to soy sauce. Coconut aminos or tamari can work great. They give a nice taste without being too salty. Using fresh herbs as a garnish adds a pop of flavor. Chopped cilantro or basil can brighten the dish. They also make it look fancy! Pair your stir fry with rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the sauce well and make your meal filling. For presentation, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds color and texture. Serve it all in a large bowl to show off your work! {{image_2}} If you want to switch up the protein in this dish, chicken and tofu work great. Chicken adds a hearty texture. Just cut it into small pieces and cook it until golden. Tofu is a perfect choice for a plant-based meal. Press it to remove excess water, then cube it before cooking. Both options absorb the flavors well. You can also explore seafood variations. Scallops or calamari can add a different taste. Just adjust the cooking time so they don’t overcook. Feel free to change the veggies based on what you have. Zucchini, carrots, or bok choy can add color and crunch. When you use seasonal produce, your stir fry tastes fresh and vibrant. Try mixing in some leafy greens like spinach or kale. They wilt down nicely and boost nutrition. You might want to switch the sauce for a new flavor. Teriyaki sauce offers a sweet and savory twist. Chili sauce adds heat, giving your dish a spicy kick. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey. You can even use maple syrup for a different flavor. Mix and match to find your perfect balance! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it. You can store the Garlic Sesame Shrimp Stir Fry in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently when you're ready to eat again. You can freeze this stir fry for later meals. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and make sure it is sealed tight. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to help it steam. Leftover stir fry is not just a meal; it's a chance to be creative. You can toss it into a salad for a crunchy lunch. Or, mix it with pasta for a quick dinner. You can also use it as a filling for wraps or tacos. Meal prep is easy too! You can make larger batches and pack them for busy days. To make garlic sesame shrimp stir fry, follow these steps: - Marinate shrimp: Mix shrimp, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, half the minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Let it sit for 15 minutes. - Cook shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a skillet. Add marinated shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until pink. - Sauté garlic: Remove shrimp. Add remaining garlic to the skillet, stir for 30 seconds. - Add vegetables: Toss in sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. - Combine everything: Return shrimp to the skillet. Mix soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes in a bowl, pour over the shrimp and veggies. Cook for 1-2 minutes more. Essential techniques include marinating the shrimp for flavor and stir-frying to keep the dish quick and fresh. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Here are some tips: - Thawing: Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or place them in cold water for 30 minutes. - Cooking time: Frozen shrimp may need a minute longer to cook. Check that they are fully pink and opaque. Always ensure your shrimp is fully thawed for even cooking. If you need to swap sesame oil, here are some alternatives: - Vegetable oil: This is a neutral choice that won't alter the flavor much. - Peanut oil: Adds a nutty flavor, similar to sesame oil. - Olive oil: Good for a different taste but less authentic. When substituting, you may need to adjust the amount to match your flavor preference. This blog post covered how to make garlic sesame shrimp stir fry. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to elevate your dish. Exploring variations and storage options can help you customize the recipe. Remember, you can always swap proteins or veggies to fit your taste. Enjoying this quick meal is not just easy but fun. With practice, you’ll impress everyone with your stir fry skills. Cook and create your perfect version today!$