Stir-fries are one of the quickest and most delicious ways to prepare a meal, and this Pineapple Shrimp Stir-Fry is a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors.
The sweet and tangy pineapple perfectly balances the savory shrimp, while fresh vegetables add a delightful crunch. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this stir-fry delivers on both taste and convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and a touch of natural sweetness.
Customizable: Swap out veggies, adjust the heat level, or use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Store leftovers for a delicious next-day lunch.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 cup snap peas or broccoli florets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce:
¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust for spice preference)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (to thicken)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sriracha, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Toss in the onions, garlic, and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the bell peppers and snap peas, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the shrimp to the pan.
Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir well.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Pro Tips for the Best Stir-Fry
Use Fresh Pineapple for Maximum Flavor: Fresh pineapple adds a more natural sweetness and a slight tartness compared to canned pineapple.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
Prep Everything in Advance: Stir-fries cook quickly, so have all ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking.
Adjust the Heat Level: Love spice? Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes.
Make it a Meal: Serve with jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or rice noodles for a complete dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely under cold running water and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What Vegetables Can I Use Instead?
You can swap out the vegetables based on your preference. Try adding zucchini, mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy for variety.
3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
4. Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
5. Can I Use Chicken Instead of Shrimp?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes before continuing with the recipe.
6. What’s the Best Way to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Heat in a pan over medium heat for the best texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second increments until warm.
7. Can I Make This Without Pineapple?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you can leave it out or replace it with mango for a different tropical twist.
8. Can I Use Canned Pineapple?
Yes, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the stir-fry.
9. How Do I Prevent My Sauce from Being Too Watery?
The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce. Be sure to let the stir-fry cook for a couple of minutes after adding the sauce so it thickens properly.
10. What’s a Good Side Dish for This Stir-Fry?
Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Quinoa for a protein-packed option
Rice noodles for a noodle stir-fry variation
A simple Asian cucumber salad
Conclusion
Pineapple Shrimp Stir-Fry is an easy, healthy, and flavorful meal that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. The perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors makes this dish a family favorite. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stir-fry is a must-try. Give it a go and enjoy a taste of the tropics right at home!
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