Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Stir-fry

Name: Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Stir-fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g spaghetti or your choice of pasta; 400g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 carrot, julienned; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I absolutely love this Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Stir-fry because it's a quick yet flavorful dish that harmonizes succulent shrimp with vibrant vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce brings everything together, making each bite perfectly delicious. Whether it's a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into our diets!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-15T16:10:18.831Z

Creating this Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Stir-fry has become a staple in my kitchen due to its adaptability. I enjoy switching up the vegetables based on what I have on hand or what's in season, which keeps the dish exciting. I've found that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.

What truly elevates this dish is the technique; I cook the shrimp just until pink for optimal juiciness. Pairing them with al dente pasta and sautéed veggies leads to a delightful texture contrast that I can't get enough of!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious blend of shrimp and fresh vegetables
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions
Deliciously satisfying with every bite

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The flavor of this Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Stir-fry greatly relies on the freshness of your ingredients. Using high-quality shrimp will ensure that you get the best taste and texture in your dish. I recommend choosing shrimp that is wild-caught whenever possible, as they typically have a sweeter and more delicate flavor. Fresh vegetables also play a crucial role; aim for crisp and vibrant produce. Swap in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or snap peas if you want to experiment with different flavors and textures.

Don't overlook the importance of garlic and ginger. These aromatics not only add depth but also lend a warm, fragrant note that elevates the overall dish. Make sure to sauté them just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before adding the shrimp to prevent them from burning. Toasting the garlic slightly can enhance its nuttiness, which pairs beautifully with the shrimp. Always keep an eye on the color; you want everything to be glistening and colorful, indicating that it’s perfectly cooked.

Customizing Your Stir-fry

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can substitute the pasta for rice noodles or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. If you're vegetarian, feel free to replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh, adjusting the cooking time accordingly; tofu should be crisped until golden for that delightful texture. Additionally, you can experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki or a spicy chili paste, depending on your taste preferences.

Stir-fries naturally lend themselves to improvisation. Experiment with different vegetable combinations or add ingredients like snap peas or mushrooms to enhance the visual appeal and nutrient profile. If you have leftover veggies in your fridge, this is an excellent opportunity to use them up. Just be mindful of cooking times; denser vegetables like carrots might need to be pre-cooked or sliced thinner to ensure everything finishes cooking simultaneously.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Stir-fry

300g spaghetti or your choice of pasta
400g shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Sauté shrimp and vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Add red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot, cooking until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Combine and serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with soy sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sesame oil.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial for achieving the right texture in your stir-fry. Typically, this means you should boil it for about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This will ensure that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce and holds its shape when combined with the other ingredients. Don’t forget to reserve some of the pasta cooking water; it is perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency without compromising flavor.

Another tip is to rinse the pasta in cold water only if you plan to store it for later use, as this helps prevent sticking. However, in this dish, it’s best to toss it directly into the stir-fry while it’s still warm. The heat from the pasta will help it soak up the sauce better and achieve a more cohesive dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to 2 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for the best results, adding a splash of water or more soy sauce to prevent dryness. This will help maintain the texture of both the shrimp and vegetables, preserving their vibrant colors and flavors.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the stir-fry. I recommend freezing it without the noodles, as they can become mushy when thawed. You can prepare the shrimp and veggies, then separate them into portions. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and sauté with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal that tastes just as good as the first time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What types of vegetables work well in a stir-fry?

You can use bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, carrots, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While stir-fried dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and quickly stir-fry them when you're ready to eat.