Summer is the perfect time to whip up light and healthy meals that are both delicious and easy to make. Shrimp stir-fry is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a dish that is not only healthy but also packed with flavor. This dish is a combination of sautéed shrimp, mixed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and onions, and served with a side of cauliflower rice.
Why Shrimp Stir-Fry is Best for Healthy Summer Dinner Recipes?
Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, and it is also low in fat and calories, making it an excellent choice for those who are looking to maintain a healthy diet. When combined with mixed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and onions, shrimp stir-fry becomes a nutrient-dense meal that is perfect for summer.
These vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, and they add a pop of color and texture to the dish. Moreover, cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative to traditional rice, making this dish even healthier.
How to Make Shrimp Stir-Fry?
To make shrimp stir-fry, you will need the following
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Set the mixture aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. Wait until the oil is hot before adding the ingredients.
- Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add sliced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add chopped broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan if the vegetables are sticking.
- Add shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become tough and rubbery.
- Pour the soy sauce mixture over the shrimp and vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the shrimp and vegetables.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve the shrimp stir-fry hot with a side of cauliflower rice.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Helpful Tips
- To make cauliflower rice, pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. Sauté in a pan with a tablespoon of oil for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking.
- Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become tough and rubbery.
- You can add other vegetables such as carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to the stir-fry if you like.
- For a spicier version of this dish, add red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce.
FAQ’s
Can I use other types of rice instead of cauliflower rice?
Yes, you can use regular rice or brown rice, but keep in mind that this will increase the carb content of the dish.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Can I substitute shrimp with other types of seafood?
Yes, you can use other types of seafood such as scallops, mussels, or squid.
Freezing
You can freeze shrimp stir-fry in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat until heated through. Make sure to stir the dish frequently to prevent the shrimp from overcooking.
Storage
Shrimp stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat until heated through.
Nutritional Information
A serving of shrimp stir-fry (approximately 1 ½ cups) contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Shrimp stir-fry is a great source of lean protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those who are looking for a healthy and delicious summer meal.
By using low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower rice and adding a variety of colorful vegetables, you can create a nutrient-dense dish that is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you are cooking for yourself or your family, shrimp stir-fry is a recipe that you will want to come back to time and time again.
