A waft of sizzling garlic and shrimp fills the air as you toss together a vibrant medley of vegetables and fluffy rice in a hot skillet. This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare and works seamlessly for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a straightforward dish that offers a savory and satisfying meal using leftover rice.
This recipe is perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a delicious and nutritious meal. It’s an ideal dish to whip up for a satisfying lunch or dinner, especially when you’re short on time. You can even prepare the ingredients in advance for a quicker cooking process.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The shrimp become perfectly tender and infused with garlic flavor.
- It incorporates a colorful array of vegetables for both nutrition and visual appeal.
- Cooking time is under 30 minutes, making it a fast dinner option.
- The soy sauce adds a delightful umami punch that ties everything together.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish.
For the Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice
For the Protein
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
For the Eggs
- 2 eggs
For the Flavor
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Green onions, chopped
Use leftover rice for best texture.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use fresh vegetables instead of frozen.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu.
- Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Use sesame oil for added flavor.
How to Make It
Start cooking this delightful dish in just a few easy steps.
Heat
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sauté
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Cook
Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
Scramble
Push shrimp to the side and scramble the eggs in the center of the skillet.
Combine
Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice, then pour soy sauce over the top.
Mix
Mix everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Season
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, texture may change.
Reheat: Microwave for 2 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use day-old rice for better texture and less sticking.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the shrimp.
- Stir-fry quickly to retain the vibrant colors of the vegetables.
- Adjust the soy sauce amount based on your flavor preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed edamame for a complete meal.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad for extra crunch.
- Enjoy with a glass of iced tea for a delightful combo.
