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 white or brown rice, preferably day-old; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 2 green onions, chopped; 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I love making Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice because it's a quick and delicious way to whip up a satisfying meal. After a long day, I appreciate how this recipe uses simple ingredients that I often have on hand. The vibrant colors of the vegetables mingled with tender shrimp create a visually appealing dish that's packed with flavor. Plus, it's a versatile recipe where I can easily swap in whatever veggies I have left in my fridge. In just 30 minutes, I can serve up a wholesome meal that the whole family enjoys!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:10:36.655Z

When I first attempted making shrimp fried rice at home, I was shocked at how straightforward it was to replicate the tasty restaurant version. The key is to use a hot wok and cold, day-old rice to achieve that perfect texture and flavor. I also found that adding a splash of soy sauce really enhances the shrimp's taste without overwhelming the fresh vegetables.

Something that made a big difference for me was incorporating various veggies like peas, carrots, and bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Not only does it make the dish more appealing, but it also packs in plenty of vitamins and minerals, making this a balanced meal option. Now it's become a regular in our household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and nutritious, perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Packed with protein from shrimp for a satisfying meal

The Role of Rice in Your Fried Rice

The type of rice you use is crucial for the texture and overall success of your Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice. Day-old rice is ideal because it has dried out slightly, making it less sticky and easier to separate during stir-frying. If you don't have day-old rice, try cooking your rice earlier in the day and letting it cool in the refrigerator for a few hours. This can help replicate the perfect texture for your fried rice.

When adding the rice to the wok, ensure that you break up any clumps with a spatula to help it heat evenly. Overcrowding the pan can result in uneven cooking; you want the rice to fry and get slightly crispy. A well-coated rice in the soy sauce will develop a beautiful glossy sheen, adding both flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

Customizing Your Veggies

One of the best aspects of this Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is the flexibility it offers with vegetables. While the suggested mixed vegetables work beautifully, feel free to use any fresh or frozen veggies that you have on hand. Broccoli florets, snap peas, or even zucchini can all bring something unique to the dish, and their different cooking times can add variety to your stir-fry.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the vegetable stir-fry. These ingredients not only enhance the dish’s aroma but complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Just be cautious, as cooking garlic too long can cause it to burn, imparting a bitter flavor. In just 30 seconds of sautéing with the veggies, you can elevate the dish considerably.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're looking to save time during busy weeknights, I recommend prepping the shrimp and vegetables in advance. You can rinse and chop the veggies, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The shrimp can also be peeled and deveined ahead of time—just keep them chilled until you're ready to cook.

Leftover fried rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I suggest reheating it in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, just adding a splash of water to avoid drying it out. Stir regularly until it's heated through. This way, you get to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal even on your busiest days!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white or brown rice, preferably day-old
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
2 green onions, chopped
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Wok

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Scramble the Eggs

In the same wok, pour in the beaten eggs. Stir gently until scrambled and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside with the shrimp.

Stir-fry the Veggies

Add sesame oil to the wok followed by mixed vegetables and green onions. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked rice to the wok and mix well with the veggies. Pour in soy sauce, and add the shrimp and scrambled eggs back into the wok. Toss everything together until heated through and evenly mixed, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy shrimp fried rice!

Pro Tips

Using leftover rice is ideal for this dish
it prevents the rice from becoming mushy during cooking. Also, feel free to get creative with vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

When making fried rice, it's essential to avoid the pitfall of cooking the shrimp too long. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, ruining the dish's texture. Keep a close eye on the shrimp, cooking them until they just turn pink—this generally takes about 2-3 minutes. Removing them promptly will ensure they remain tender and succulent.

Another common mistake is being too cautious with your seasonings. The soy sauce is the primary flavor base in this dish, so don't skimp on it. If you prefer a lower sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce, or consider adding a touch of extra sesame oil for depth. Just remember to taste and adjust as you go!

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice can be enjoyed on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh cucumber salad or a light miso soup for a complete meal. You can also serve it in a hollowed-out bell pepper or pineapple for a fun presentation that doubles as a serving dish.

For added brightness, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving. This addition will not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but elevate the flavor profile, balancing the savory elements from the shrimp and soy sauce perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What can I substitute for the shrimp?

You can use chicken, tofu, or even just add more vegetables if you prefer a vegetarian option.