Shrimp and green bean stir fry : A Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Craving a vibrant, protein-packed meal that comes together in under 30 minutes? This shrimp and green bean stir-fry delivers bold flavors, crisp textures, and a satisfying balance of nutrients—perfect for busy evenings. As a chef who’s tested countless stir-fry recipes, I can confidently say this one stands out for its simplicity and restaurant-worthy results.
Why does this dish work so well? Fresh shrimp cooks quickly, while green beans retain a delightful crunch, creating a dynamic contrast. The savory-sweet sauce, infused with garlic and ginger, clings perfectly to every bite. Plus, it’s versatile—swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, or pair it with creamy mac and cheese for a comforting twist.
Stir-fries are my go-to for minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. With one skillet and minimal prep, you’ll have a colorful dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how to make this shrimp and green bean stir-fry your new weeknight staple.
Table of Contents
Ingredients List
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed and halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium optional)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- ¼ cup water or broth
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a delicious shrimp and green bean stir fry is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. Trim the ends off the green beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and ginger for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl to coat the pan evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the green beans to the same pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. Toss in garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the shrimp to the pan. Pour in the sauce (soy sauce, honey, and chili paste). Toss everything together for 1 minute.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
This shrimp and green bean stir fry is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 10g
For a lighter version, try swapping honey with a sugar-free alternative like stevia. If you love protein-rich meals, check out our chicken tortilla dump dinner for another quick option.
Green beans are rich in vitamins A and C, while shrimp provides lean protein and omega-3s. For more on balancing macros, the Stay at Home Chef offers great insights into healthy cooking techniques.
Craving more stir-fry ideas? Our vegetable quiche recipe is another nutrient-packed dish. Or explore Cuban black beans for a fiber-rich side.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make your shrimp and green bean stir fry even healthier, try these simple swaps:
1. Swap Regular Oil for Coconut or Avocado Oil
Instead of using vegetable oil, opt for healthier alternatives like coconut oil or avocado oil. These oils have higher smoke points and contain beneficial fats. For more healthy cooking oil ideas, check out our vegetable quiche recipe which uses similar principles.
2. Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari
Reduce sodium content by choosing low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free tamari. The Cuban black beans recipe from Cooked by Julie shows how flavorful dishes can be with controlled salt.
3. Add More Vegetables
Boost the nutritional profile by adding colorful bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli. Our hearty soup beans recipe demonstrates how to pack maximum nutrition into one dish.
4. Choose Wild-Caught Shrimp
For better quality protein and sustainability, select wild-caught shrimp. The slow cooker recipes from Stay at Home Chef emphasize the importance of quality protein sources.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile shrimp and green bean stir fry pairs beautifully with various sides:
1. With Rice or Noodles
Serve over brown rice for extra fiber or rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Our creamy mac and cheese makes another excellent carb pairing if you’re craving comfort food.
2. As Part of a Bowl Meal
Create an Asian-inspired bowl with this stir fry as the centerpiece, adding pickled vegetables and a soft-boiled egg. The Dizzy Cook’s dessert recipes show how to balance savory and sweet in a meal.
3. With a Fresh Salad
Pair with a crisp Asian slaw or cucumber salad for contrast. For more salad inspiration, our Cajun stuffed shells post includes great side dish ideas.
4. As an Appetizer
Serve smaller portions in lettuce cups for a light starter. The tartlet recipes from Cooking LSL demonstrate perfect portioning for appetizers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a perfect shrimp and green bean stir-fry requires attention to detail. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Overcooking the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery. For tender results, remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
Soggy Green Beans
Blanching green beans before stir-frying ensures crispness. Skip this step, and they may turn mushy. Need a time-saver? Try flash-steaming instead.
Overcrowding the Pan
Too many ingredients lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed, as recommended in this high-heat cooking guide.
Underseasoning
Stir-fries rely on bold flavors. Balance soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. For inspiration, check out these quick seasoning tricks.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Keep your shrimp and green bean stir-fry fresh with these storage hacks:
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking. Pair with a side dish for a new meal.
Freezing
Freeze without shrimp for best texture. Green beans retain quality for 3 months. Thaw and add freshly cooked shrimp later. For more freezer tips, see this guide.
Meal Prep
Prep ingredients ahead—slice veggies and marinate shrimp separately. Combine when ready to cook. Need more make-ahead ideas? Try dump-and-go recipes.
Reviving Leftovers
Sprinkle water before microwaving to prevent dryness. Or repurpose into fried rice, as shown in these creative twists.
Conclusion
This shrimp and green bean stir fry is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its balance of protein, fiber, and vibrant veggies, it’s a meal that satisfies both taste and health goals. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a simple yet delicious dinner idea, this recipe delivers. For more easy weeknight meals, try our chicken tortilla dump dinner or Cajun stuffed shells.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this stir-fry?
Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water before patting them dry to ensure they sear properly.
How do I prevent soggy green beans?
Blanch the beans first or stir-fry them on high heat for a crisp-tender texture.
Can I substitute other vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli work well—just adjust cooking times.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is customizable. Reduce or omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.
