Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice

Name: Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 2 green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Favorites

I love making Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice for a quick and nutritious meal that satisfies my cravings. This dish is my go-to when I want something light yet filling. It's incredible how simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful, colorful meal. The shrimp adds a nice protein boost, while the veggies bring freshness and crunch. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when I want to whip up something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:01:36.672Z

When I first experimented with shrimp fried rice, I never expected it to become a weekly staple in my kitchen. I discovered that using day-old rice helps achieve the perfect texture, keeping it from becoming mushy. It was an eye-opener because fresh rice can often lead to an unhappy clump of grains, which ruins the dish.

The combination of fresh vegetables, like peas and carrots, complements the shrimp beautifully, adding layers of flavor and nutrition. I also love customizing it with whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a versatile meal that I can reinvent each time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation that's perfect for busy nights
Loaded with colorful vegetables for added nutrition
Flavorful shrimp that provide a satisfying protein boost

Ingredient Insights

The choice of rice plays a crucial role in the texture of your Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice. Day-old jasmine rice works best because it’s drier and will not become mushy when stir-frying. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump, while the drier rice grains separate easily, resulting in a perfectly fluffy fried rice. If you don't have jasmine rice, medium-grain rice or even brown rice can work, although the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Using a variety of mixed vegetables not only enhances the nutritional profile of your dish but also adds vibrant colors and textures. I recommend a mix that includes peas, carrots, and bell peppers, as each brings its unique crunch and sweetness to the dish. Feel free to substitute with frozen mixed vegetables if you're in a pinch; just ensure they are thawed and drained before using to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the shrimp, be attentive to their cooking time. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so as soon as they turn pink and lose their translucent appearance—approximately 2-3 minutes—remove them from the heat. This quick cooking preserves their juiciness and ensures they remain tender when added back into the rice mixture later in the process.

Stir-frying is a key technique here, as it allows for high heat cooking while keeping the ingredients crisp. Keep your skillet hot throughout the cooking process; if you see any ingredients beginning to brown too much, reduce the heat slightly. A well-heated skillet will make the garlic fragrant and prevent the vegetables from stewing in their own moisture, helping them retain their lovely bite.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice

Ingredients

1 cup cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients to make your cooking experience enjoyable!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Ensure that all your ingredients are ready. Chop the vegetables and set them aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink, then remove them from the skillet.

Stir-fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and then add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the cooked shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated through.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy meal!

Enjoy your delicious and healthy shrimp fried rice!

Pro Tips

For the best texture, use day-old rice. It helps to avoid clumping during stir-frying. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add an egg for extra protein.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to enjoy this dish later, consider preparing the rice a day ahead and storing it in the refrigerator to cool completely. This helps prevent clumping when you stir-fry. The shrimp and vegetables can also be prepped in advance—just chop and store them in sealed containers to keep them fresh. This way, when you're ready to cook, it will only take about 10 minutes to whip up the meal.

When it comes to leftovers, store any fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, covering it to create steam, which will help revive the original texture. You can also microwave it, but do so in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice is versatile and can be served alone as a light meal or paired with a fresh side salad for added crunch and nutrients. For a more fulfilling experience, serve it alongside some steamed dumplings or spring rolls. A drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds an extra kick and visual appeal.

For those who enjoy customizing flavors, consider adding a dash of lime juice or sesame seeds just before serving. Fresh cilantro also makes an excellent garnish that adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. You can also easily scale this dish by increasing the shrimp and vegetables, maintaining the same proportions to create a heartier meal for gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or basmati rice works best, especially if it's day-old for the right texture.

→ Can I add other proteins?

Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or beef would work well in this fried rice recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.