Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Stir-Fry – Colorful, Crunchy & Ready in 20 Minutes

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on freshness or crunch? Meet your new weeknight hero: Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Stir-Fry. It’s bold, vibrant, and — best of all — on the table in just 20 minutes.

This stir-fry is a go-to dish for busy evenings, combining juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a savory garlic sauce that ties it all together. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is actually light, clean, and full of nutrients. Win-win.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

• Healthy – Packed with protein and colorful veggies.

• Versatile – Use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

• Better than takeout – Fresher, faster, and more flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off)

• 2–3 cups mixed vegetables, such as:

  • Bell peppers (red, yellow, green)

  • Broccoli florets

  • Snap peas or snow peas

  • Carrots (thinly sliced)

  • Zucchini or mushrooms

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional for extra zing)

• Red pepper flakes or chili paste (for heat, to taste)

To Serve:

• Steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice

• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

How to Make Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Stir-Fry

1. Prep Everything First

Because stir-frying happens fast, have all your ingredients chopped and ready before the pan hits the heat. Pat shrimp dry for the best sear.

2. Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and sear the shrimp until pink and just cooked through (about 1–2 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Veggies

Add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the veggies and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until they’re crisp-tender. Start with the firmer vegetables (like carrots and broccoli), then add the softer ones (like bell peppers or zucchini).

4. Add Garlic & Sauce

Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan, cooking just until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Return the shrimp to the pan. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

Mix the cornstarch and water, then pour into the pan. Stir well until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely — just 1–2 minutes.

5. Serve Hot

Plate it over rice or noodles, sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions, and serve immediately. Enjoy the crunch, the heat, and the garlicky goodness in every bite.

Tips for Stir-Fry Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if needed for the best sear.

• Use high heat – Stir-frying is all about quick cooking and keeping the veggies crisp.

• Make it your own – Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or beef; use tamari for a gluten-free version; or toss in pineapple for a sweet twist.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for healthy lunches throughout the week. Just store in airtight containers and enjoy within 3–4 days.

A Deliciously Balanced Meal in Minutes

Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Stir-Fry proves that fast food doesn’t have to mean boring food. With bold flavors, a rainbow of vegetables, and protein-packed shrimp, it’s a satisfying dish you’ll come back to again and again — whether it’s a lazy Tuesday night or a last-minute dinner with friends.