Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice

Name: Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, peas, carrots); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking oil (for stir-frying)

Highlighted under: Fresh Living Plates

I always crave a satisfying meal that doesn't take hours to prepare, and this Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice hits the spot every time. With fresh vegetables, succulent shrimp, and just the right amount of seasoning, it's a balanced dish that comes together in about 30 minutes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; I can swap in whichever veggies I have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rice. Trust me, you’ll love how easy this is!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:37:37.277Z

When I first decided to make this shrimp fried rice, I knew I wanted to keep it light without sacrificing flavor. I chose to use a mix of bell peppers and snap peas for crunch, along with some aromatic garlic and ginger. The hint of sesame oil at the end elevates the dish perfectly. I recommend using day-old rice for the best texture, as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy.

One night, I invited some friends over to share this delicious meal, and everyone was surprised at how quickly it came together. They couldn’t believe that a healthy version could be so tasty! The secret is in the seasoning and the fresh ingredients, which is why I always include a splash of low-sodium soy sauce right before serving. It’s a must-try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Packed with protein and vegetables for a wholesome meal
Flavorful, satisfying, and family-friendly

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients can elevate your Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice to another level. High-quality shrimp, ideally fresh or properly frozen, will absorb flavors better and boast a firmer texture. When sautéed, they should turn a vibrant pink and be opaque throughout. Even slight overcooking can lead to tough, rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them while they’re in the skillet. Fresh vegetables don’t just add color; they also contribute essential nutrients and crunch that make this dish satisfying and wholesome.

For optimal flavor, consider using seasonal vegetables. In the winter, root vegetables like carrots and snap peas can be excellent choices, while in the summer, vibrant bell peppers and zucchini shine. You can also experiment with unique add-ins like sugar snap peas or bok choy for added crunch and nutrition.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Fried Rice

When it comes to fried rice, the texture is paramount. Using day-old jasmine rice is key; it’s drier and less sticky than freshly cooked rice. If you don't have any leftover, spread freshly made rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to cool down and dry out before making this dish. This prevents the final product from becoming mushy.

Another tip is to ensure your skillet or wok is adequately heated before adding the ingredients. A preheated pan will create a slight sear on the vegetables and shrimp, leading to additional flavor. The oil should shimmer but not smoke; this indicates it’s ready. If you notice your food sticking, your pan might not be hot enough.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers, Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for the best results. This technique helps restore some of the original crispiness and prevents sogginess that can occur in the microwave.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fried rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam and refresh the dish.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, peas, carrots)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking oil (for stir-frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If using day-old rice, make sure it’s broken up and not clumped together. This will make stir-frying easier.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-fry Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the mixed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Combine Rice and Shrimp

Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the shrimp. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring constantly to combine all the ingredients. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the sliced green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious shrimp fried rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add some chili flakes or sriracha. You can customize this recipe by using other proteins like chicken or tofu, or by adding more vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.

Flavor Variations

This Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice can be easily customized to suit different palates. Feel free to add spices for a kick—chili flakes or sriracha are great options for heat. Alternatively, incorporate sweet sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a contrasting flavor. Each of these modifications can infuse the dish with new dimensions without overwhelming the original recipe.

If you're looking to make it a one-pan meal, consider tossing in some protein alternatives alongside or instead of shrimp. Chicken, tofu, or even scrambled eggs can complement the dish beautifully, adding variety and different textures.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice with a light cucumber salad or steamed broccoli to balance the meal with freshness. You can also serve it alongside egg rolls or dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired feast. On the other hand, if you're short on time, this dish stands well on its own—just make sure to pack in those vibrant vegetables.

To enhance the dish for special occasions, garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro right before serving. This not only adds a visual appeal but also introduces contrasting textures and layers of flavor that elevate the simple fried rice into something impressive.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the shrimp with tofu and use a vegan soy sauce.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice will work well, although the cooking time may vary.