If you’re craving a dish that delivers a punch of bold flavors alongside crisp, fresh vegetables, then you’re going to love this Spicy Shrimp with Stir-Fried Green Beans Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of fiery shrimp tossed in a flavorful marinade, paired with vibrant green beans that are stir-fried to tender-crisp perfection. This dish is quick to make, satisfying on every bite, and sure to become your go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels special yet effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer—whether it’s the smoky hints from paprika, the zesty heat from chili garlic sauce, or the nutty aroma of sesame oil, everything blends beautifully to create a memorable meal.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that soaks up all the spices for that perfect spicy kick.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for marinating the shrimp and stir-frying, providing a smooth cooking base.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and helps balance the heat with umami richness.
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce: Brings the heat and garlicky zing—adjust to your spice comfort level.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the aromatic quality of the dish without overpowering it.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For that extra punch of spicy heat—feel free to tweak as you like.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fundamental seasonings that bring everything together.
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed: Crisp and vibrant for a refreshing counterbalance to the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For stir-frying green beans to keep them tender-crisp.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the green beans with a fragrant aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated: Adds a bright, refreshing bite that complements the heat.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances the flavor of the green beans, tying the components together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Provides a toasty richness that finishes the vegetables beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the green beans just right.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds crunch and a nutty note to the final presentation.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp with Stir-Fried Green Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Shrimp
Begin by giving your shrimp that flavorful boost. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This marinade does all the heavy lifting, infusing the shrimp with layers of smoky, spicy, and savory notes. Let the shrimp sit for 10 to 15 minutes to soak up all the goodness.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Green Beans
While the shrimp is marinating, heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying them just long enough for their incredible aromas to fill your kitchen, about a minute. Add the green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften slightly but still have a satisfying crispness. Then, splash in soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing to coat the beans evenly and stir-fry for another couple of minutes. Season with salt and pepper before removing from the heat.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, cook your marinated shrimp over medium-high heat. Since they’re already packed with flavor, they only need about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn perfectly pink and opaque. The quick sear locks in the flavors while keeping the shrimp tender.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Arrange a bed of stir-fried green beans on each plate, then top with the spicy shrimp. If you have sesame seeds, sprinkle them on top for an extra touch of texture and toasty flavor. Serve immediately for a meal bursting with contrasting textures and bold flavors.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp with Stir-Fried Green Beans Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over the dish not only adds a subtle crunch but also enhances the visual appeal. Freshly chopped scallions or a squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the flavors beautifully. These simple touches lift the entire dish and make it feel gourmet.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Shrimp with Stir-Fried Green Beans Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to absorb all those delicious sauces. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works just as well and keeps the focus on the bold shrimp and veg.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate — serve the shrimp and green beans wrapped in warm lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on experience. Or pile it atop a bed of soba noodles tossed with a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil to turn this recipe into an even heartier meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp and green beans will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture of the green beans, it’s best to reheat them gently.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for this recipe because the shrimp might become rubbery and the green beans lose their crispness. If you must freeze, separate the shrimp and vegetables and consume within 1 month for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. This way, the shrimp stay tender and the green beans keep their snap. Add a drizzle of sesame oil or a splash of soy sauce if needed to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess water that can dilute the flavors.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust it?
The spice level is flexible. You can reduce or increase the chili garlic sauce and cayenne pepper based on your preference, making it mild or fiery.
Can I use other vegetables instead of green beans?
Definitely! Snap peas, asparagus, or broccoli work great and offer their own delicious textures to complement the shrimp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It’s easy to make gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy alternative.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the marinade in advance and refrigerate it, then toss the shrimp in it just before cooking for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Shrimp with Stir-Fried Green Beans Recipe is a total winner if you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It brings together vibrant colors, bold spices, and fresh textures in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. Give it a try—you’ll find it effortlessly becomes one of your favorite dinners to whip up any day of the week.
Print
Spicy Shrimp with Stir-Fried Green Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Description
A quick and flavorful dish featuring spicy marinated shrimp served over crisp-tender stir-fried green beans. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Stir-Fried Green Beans
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
- Marinate: Let the shrimp marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Stir-Fry the Green Beans: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Green Beans: Add the green beans and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
- Season Green Beans: Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the green beans, tossing to coat evenly, and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the marinated shrimp and cook over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the spicy shrimp over the stir-fried green beans, garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust chili garlic sauce and cayenne pepper for preferred spice level.
- Use fresh green beans for optimal texture and flavor.
- Peeling and deveining shrimp beforehand saves time.
- Sesame seeds garnish adds a nice nutty crunch but is optional.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
