Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables
Whenever I think about cooking something quick yet satisfying, I immediately gravitate towards Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether I’m cooking for myself after a long day or hosting a dinner party with friends. The blend of fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp is not only delightful but also vibrant, bringing color and health to the table. I remember the first time I prepared this dish; the aroma of garlic and the sizzling sound of shrimp hitting the pan instantly filled my kitchen with warmth and excitement. It’s a recipe that’s so easy to whip up, yet it feels like a feast every time I serve it. When I combine the crispness of sugar snap peas and broccolini with the tender shrimp, it creates a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. This dish has become a staple in my home, especially during spring when the produce is at its best. So, let’s dive into the magic of Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables and make your next meal memorable!
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
15 mins
10 mins
Medium
290 kcal
25 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
10 g
Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon
Why You Need This Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables
Freshness is Key
What makes Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables truly special is the freshness of the ingredients. Using fresh, colorful vegetables like broccolini and sugar snap peas not only enhances the flavor but also ensures you’re getting the best nutrients. I love visiting the local farmer’s market and selecting the freshest produce, which adds a personal touch to my cooking.
Quick Cooking
This recipe is fantastic for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of shrimp and vegetables cooks quickly, allowing you to prepare a nutritious meal in under thirty minutes. I appreciate how the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for even beginner cooks.
Healthy Yet Satisfying
Another reason I adore this dish is its health benefits. Packed with protein from the shrimp and fiber from the vegetables, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s guilt-free, allowing you to indulge without the worry of overindulging. I often feel energized after enjoying a plate of this!
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the joys of cooking Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings based on what you have on hand. This flexibility not only caters to personal preferences but also encourages creativity in the kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual lunch or a dinner party, this recipe fits all occasions perfectly. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and it’s a dish that can impress guests without extensive effort. I love serving it over a bed of rice, making it a complete meal that everyone enjoys.
What’s In This Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables
When preparing Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables, it’s all about the harmony of flavors and textures that these ingredients bring together. The fresh vegetables provide crunch and color, while the shrimp offers a succulent contrast. The use of soy sauce and hoisin sauce elevates the dish with umami richness, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Shrimp: Approximately 3/4 pounds of medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, is the star of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic: Three cloves of minced garlic add aromatic depth and a punch of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Sugar Snap Peas: A delightful element, 15 ounces of sugar snap peas bring a natural sweetness and crunch that contrast nicely with the other ingredients.
- Broccolini: Six ounces of broccolini adds a sophisticated touch and a vibrant green color, making the dish more visually appealing.
- Spring Onions: Two tablespoons of chopped spring onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the shrimp and vegetables.
- Red Pepper: One red pepper, cut into strips, adds sweetness and color, making the dish even more inviting.
- Soy Sauce: One tablespoon of soy sauce introduces a salty, umami flavor that ties the dish together.
- Hoisin Sauce: Two tablespoons of hoisin sauce provide a hint of sweetness and complexity that enhances taste.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, these basic seasonings are essential for rounding out all the flavors.
Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables Instructions
Cooking Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Let’s break it down step by step for a seamless cooking experience.
- Start by cooking rice according to package directions. This will serve as a delicious base for the dish.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the shrimp. If they aren’t already peeled and deveined, do this now to ensure they’re ready for the pan.
- Chop the spring onions, using both the green and white parts. Then cut the broccolini into bite-size pieces to ensure even cooking.
- In a deep frying pan or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. This indicates it’s hot enough for cooking.
- Once the oil is ready, add the shrimp to the pan. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly. You’ll want them to turn pink and opaque; this is a sign they’re perfectly cooked.
- Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate. This will prevent overcooking.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic, sugar snap peas, broccolini, red pepper, and spring onions. Stir-fry these vegetables for a few minutes until they become tender but still crisp.
- Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the shrimp to the pan.
- Add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce to the mixture, stirring everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately over a bed of rice. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste for that extra flavor kick!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Shrimp: Always make sure your shrimp is cooked just until it turns pink. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Flavor Balance: Adjust the soy sauce and hoisin sauce to achieve your desired balance of savory and sweet.
- Vegetable Crunch: For a perfect crunch, avoid overcooking the sugar snap peas and broccolini. They’re best when bright and vibrant.
- Rice Cooking: Make sure to use a pot with a lid to cook the rice properly; this traps steam and helps it cook evenly.
Helpful Hints
To make the most of your cooking experience with Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables, here are some helpful hints to keep in mind.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish, but it’s best to do so without the rice. It can last up to two months in the freezer.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a healthy twist.
- Serving Size: Don’t hesitate to double the recipe if you’re cooking for a crowd; it scales perfectly!
- Herb Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color.
Serving This Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables
When it comes to serving Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables, there are plenty of delightful options to consider. Here are some suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve this vibrant dish over a generous bed of rice. Jasmine or brown rice are both excellent choices.
- As a Stir-Fry: You can enjoy it on its own as a healthy stir-fry option, bringing a burst of flavors with each bite.
- Perfect for Dinner Parties: This dish is great for entertaining. The colorful presentation will impress your guests, making it a beautiful centerpiece.
- Lunch Leftovers: Pack the leftovers for a quick and nutritious lunch the next day. It keeps well and tastes even better after the flavors have melded.
- Seasonal Side Dishes: Pair it with a light salad or steamed asparagus during the spring for a refreshing meal.
- Casual Gatherings: It’s perfect for casual get-togethers, bringing a taste of Asian cuisine to any table.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables recipe is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and quick preparation time that makes it a standout choice. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of healthy eating that you can enjoy any night of the week. I encourage you to try this dish soon; it might just become a new favorite in your home! Serve it up and enjoy the smiles around the table.
Chinese Style Skinny Shrimp and Vegetables
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- Prepare the shrimp (peel and devein if not already done), chop the spring onions (I used the green and white parts), and cut the broccolini into bite-size pieces.
- Heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan or wok.
- When the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Add the garlic, peas, broccolini, red pepper, spring onions, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables reach the tenderness you like, stirring often.
- Add the shrimp back in and mix everything together.
- Serve immediately over a bed of rice. Add salt & pepper if desired.
