Shrimp and Snow Peas Stir-Fry

Description

Shrimp and Snow Peas Stir-Fry is a quick, colourful, and flavourful meal that brings tender shrimp, crisp snow peas, and juicy mushrooms together in a delicious savoury sauce. Made with garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sesame oil, this easy stir-fry delivers the perfect balance of umami flavour, fresh vegetables, and satisfying protein.

This restaurant-style dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The shrimp cook in just a few minutes, while the snow peas retain their bright green colour and satisfying crunch. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavour that complements the sweetness of the shrimp and the savoury sauce.

Serve this shrimp stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own for a lighter, protein-rich dinner.

Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal, planning lunches for the week, or looking for an easy seafood recipe, this Shrimp and Snow Peas Stir-Fry is a delicious option worth adding to your regular dinner rotation.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Course: Main Course
Cooking Method: Stir-Frying
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups fresh snow peas, trimmed
8 ounces (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1–2 tablespoons cooking oil, such as avocado or vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons water, if needed to thin the sauce
1 teaspoon cornflour mixed with 1 tablespoon water, optional for a thicker sauce

Optional garnish:

2 tablespoons sliced green onions
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
A pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients before turning on the stove. Peel and devein the shrimp if they are not already prepared. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels.

Trim the ends of the snow peas and remove any tough strings. Rinse them under cold water and dry thoroughly. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel or rinse them briefly and dry them before slicing.

Mince the garlic and measure the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil into separate containers. Stir-frying happens quickly, so having everything ready will help prevent overcooking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of water if you prefer a slightly lighter sauce.

Mix until well combined. Taste the mixture before adding any salt, since soy sauce and oyster sauce already contain sodium.

If you prefer a thicker, glossy sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornflour with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a separate bowl. Keep this slurry ready to add toward the end of cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom.

Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear.

Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes on the first side, then turn and cook for another 1–2 minutes, depending on their size. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Transfer the cooked shrimp to a clean plate. They will be returned to the pan later, which helps keep them tender and prevents them from becoming rubbery.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

Add a little more cooking oil to the same skillet if necessary. Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer and let them cook for 2–3 minutes without stirring too frequently.

Once they begin to brown and release their moisture, stir and continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes.

The mushrooms should become tender and lightly golden. Browning them adds a deeper flavour that makes the finished stir-fry even more delicious.

Step 5: Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Keep the garlic moving so it does not burn. Burnt garlic can make the entire dish taste bitter.

If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 6: Stir-Fry the Snow Peas

Add the trimmed snow peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for approximately 2–3 minutes, keeping them moving so they cook evenly.

The snow peas should become bright green and slightly tender while retaining a pleasant crunch. Avoid cooking them for too long, as overcooked snow peas can lose their fresh texture and vibrant appearance.

If your snow peas are particularly thick, add 1 tablespoon of water and cover the skillet for about 30 seconds to help them soften slightly.

Step 7: Combine Everything with the Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the mushrooms and snow peas.

Pour the prepared soy and oyster sauce mixture over everything. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

Let the mixture simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm through and coat the shrimp and vegetables.

If you want a thicker sauce, stir the cornflour slurry again and pour it into the pan gradually. Cook for another 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes glossy and lightly thickened.

Step 8: Season and Finish

Taste the stir-fry and add black pepper as desired. Add salt only if necessary.

Remove the skillet from the heat and finish with a light drizzle of sesame oil if you prefer a stronger toasted sesame flavour. You can also sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top.

Serve immediately while the shrimp are tender, the mushrooms are juicy, and the snow peas are crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile stir-fry pairs beautifully with several side dishes.

Steamed jasmine rice: A classic option that absorbs the savoury sauce.
Brown rice: Adds a nutty flavour and extra whole grains.
Cauliflower rice: A lighter, lower-carbohydrate alternative.
Rice noodles: Make the meal more substantial and satisfying.
Quinoa: Provides a different texture and additional plant-based protein.
Steamed broccoli: Adds another serving of vegetables.
Fresh cucumber salad: Offers a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm stir-fry.

For a simple family dinner, spoon the shrimp and vegetables over rice and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.

Notes

Shrimp size: Large or jumbo shrimp work especially well because they remain juicy and are easy to handle during stir-frying.
Fresh or frozen shrimp: Both work well. Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Mushroom varieties: Button, cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms can be used according to your preference.
Soy sauce: Regular soy sauce provides a balanced savoury flavour. Reduced-sodium soy sauce is useful if you want to control the salt content.
Oyster sauce: Adds depth, sweetness, and umami. Check the label if you have dietary restrictions, as oyster sauce typically contains shellfish.
Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free tamari and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way. Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger nutty aroma.
Texture: For the best results, cook the snow peas briefly so they remain crisp.
Food safety: Cook shrimp thoroughly and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Tips for the Best Shrimp and Snow Peas Stir-Fry

1. Prepare Everything Before Cooking

Stir-frying is a fast cooking method. Measure your sauces, chop the garlic, slice the mushrooms, and prepare the snow peas before heating the pan.

2. Keep the pan hot.

A hot skillet helps brown the mushrooms and quickly cook the shrimp. If your pan is small, cook in batches instead of overcrowding it.

3. Dry the shrimp thoroughly.

Excess moisture can prevent browning and dilute the sauce. Patting the shrimp dry helps achieve a better texture.

4. Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them when they are opaque and reach 145°F internally. Returning them to the pan near the end prevents them from becoming tough.

5. Preserve the Crunch of Snow Peas

Add the snow peas after the mushrooms have begun to brown. A short cooking time keeps them vibrant and pleasantly crisp.

6. Adjust the sauce to your taste.

For a saltier flavour, add a little more soy sauce. For extra richness, adjust the oyster sauce slightly. If you enjoy spicy food, add chilli flakes or a small amount of chilli sauce.

7. Make the Sauce Glossy

Cornflour is optional, but it helps the sauce cling to the shrimp and vegetables. Add it gradually so the sauce does not become too thick.

8. Use Fresh Garlic

Freshly minced garlic gives the stir-fry a more vibrant aroma and flavour than garlic powder.

9. Do Not Add Too Much Salt

Soy sauce and oyster sauce are already salty. Taste the finished dish before adding additional salt.

10. Serve Immediately

This stir-fry tastes best straight from the pan. The vegetables retain their crunch, and the shrimp remain tender when served fresh.

Servings and Storage

This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish, especially when served with rice or another side.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. Add a small splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between intervals, to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Freezing: Freezing is possible, but the snow peas may become softer after thawing. For the best texture, enjoy this dish fresh.
Meal prep: Slice the mushrooms, trim the snow peas, and mix the sauce ahead of time. Keep the raw shrimp refrigerated separately until ready to cook.

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking, or within 1 hour if the surrounding temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C).

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutrition per serving, assuming four servings and the ingredients listed above without rice or noodles:

Calories: 230
Protein: 27 g
Total Carbohydrates: 9 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Total Sugars: 4 g
Total Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Cholesterol: 215 mg
Sodium: 850–1,100 mg

These values are estimates and may vary depending on the shrimp size, mushroom variety, amount of cooking oil, and brands of soy sauce and oyster sauce. Using reduced-sodium sauces and measuring the oil carefully can change the nutritional totals.

Benefits of Shrimp and Snow Peas Stir-Fry

1. A Good Source of Protein

Shrimp provide high-quality protein, which helps support muscle maintenance, growth, and normal body functions. Protein can also help make meals more satisfying.

2. Includes Fresh Vegetables

Snow peas contribute fiber, vitamin C, and other nutrients. Mushrooms provide additional nutrients and a savory flavor without requiring a heavy sauce.

3. Quick and Convenient

The entire dish can be prepared in about 25 minutes, making it a practical option for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal.

4. Easy to Customize

You can add broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, baby corn, or other vegetables to increase variety. You can also adjust the sauce and serving size to suit your preferences.

5. A Flexible Meal for Different Eating Styles

Served without rice or noodles, this dish is relatively low in carbohydrates compared with many noodle-based stir-fries. Pair it with brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.

6. Flavor Without a Heavy Cream Sauce

Garlic, mushrooms, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil create a rich-tasting dish without needing cream or butter.

No single recipe guarantees weight loss or other health outcomes. Overall nutrition depends on portion sizes, ingredients, and the balance of your complete diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag under cold running water. Drain and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without oyster sauce?

Yes. You can replace oyster sauce with a suitable vegetarian mushroom stir-fry sauce or a little extra soy sauce with a small pinch of sugar. The flavor will be slightly different.

Q3: How do I keep shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp only until opaque and fully cooked, then remove them from the pan. Return them near the end so they spend less time cooking in the sauce.

Q4: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the vegetables and sauce in advance. For the best texture, cook the shrimp and vegetables just before serving.

Q5: Is this recipe spicy?

No. The basic recipe is savory rather than spicy. Add red pepper flakes, chili garlic sauce, or fresh chili if you want more heat.

Q6: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce and verify that the oyster sauce or substitute is gluten-free. Check all product labels carefully.

Q7: What mushrooms work best?

Cremini and button mushrooms are easy choices. Shiitake mushrooms provide a deeper, more distinctive savory flavor.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Broccoli florets, sliced carrots, bell peppers, baby corn, and bok choy are excellent additions. Add firmer vegetables earlier so they have enough time to cook.

Q9: Can I serve it without rice?

Yes. The shrimp, mushrooms, and snow peas can be served on their own for a lighter meal, or alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Q10: How do I thicken the sauce?

Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir it into the simmering sauce and cook briefly until glossy. Add more only if needed.

Q11: Is shrimp and snow peas stir-fry good for meal prep?

Yes. Divide the cooked stir-fry into airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. Reheat gently and consume within 3 days for best quality.

Q12: What makes this recipe taste like restaurant stir-fry?

A hot pan, dry shrimp, lightly browned mushrooms, fresh garlic, and a balanced sauce are the keys. Cooking the ingredients quickly and avoiding overcrowding also improves the texture.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Snow Peas Stir-Fry is a simple, colorful, and satisfying recipe that combines juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, earthy mushrooms, and a delicious garlic-soy sauce. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, it is perfect for weeknight dinners, quick lunches, and easy meal prep.

Serve it over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice, or enjoy it on its own. Customize the vegetables and seasonings to make it your own, and keep this easy stir-fry in your collection for whenever you need a flavorful homemade meal.