Pineapple Shrimp

Let’s talk about a dish that sings with sweetness and savor: Pineapple Shrimp. Imagine juicy shrimp sautéed to perfection, treated with the tangy zing of fresh pineapple, and a hint of soy sauce. It’s like a mini tropical vacation on your dinner plate!

This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can deliver a meal that’s not only delicious but surprisingly creamy without any heavy dairy. The vibrant colors of the green onions and red bell peppers make it as beautiful as it is tasty, inviting you to dig right in. Plus, it’s a delightful way to enjoy some lean protein while incorporating the bright freshness of fruit into your cooking.

Why wait? Let’s dive into crafting this delightful dish that your friends and family will rave about. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to!

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Shrimp (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)

This Pineapple Shrimp recipe combines flavors and textures in a way that’s simply irresistible. You have the tender shrimp, the sweet bite of pineapple, and a deliciously fragrant hint of garlic and ginger. It’s an exciting mix that feels like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it cooks in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Quick to Make: Dinner is ready in about 15 minutes!
• Flavor Explosion: The perfect blend of sweet and savory.
• Pantry-Friendly: Uses ingredients you probably already have.
• Meal Prep Winner: Easy to scale up for meal prep.
• Healthy Dish: Packed with protein and fresh veggies.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and colorful meal that kids will love.

Key Ingredients for Pineapple Shrimp

You’ll need just a few fresh ingredients to create this scrumptious dish:

• Shrimp – The star of the show! Sweet and tender, it soaks up flavors beautifully.
• Pineapple – Fresh and juicy, it adds sweetness and a tropical touch.
• Soy Sauce – Brings umami and depth to the recipe.
• Olive Oil – For cooking, it keeps everything moist and adds a bit of richness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced, it delivers aromatic goodness.
• Ginger – Adds a warm, slightly spicy kick.
• Red Bell Pepper – Sweet and crunchy, it adds color and freshness.
• Green Onion – A finishing touch of brightness with its mild onion flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, elevating all the flavors.

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

How to Make Pineapple Shrimp

Phase 1 – Prep

1. Gather Ingredients: Start by collecting all the ingredients and placing them on the counter. This makes cooking easier and faster.
2. Dice Pineapple: Cut your fresh pineapple into bite-sized pieces. The bright yellow will make you smile!
3. Chop Vegetables: Slice the red bell pepper and chop the green onions. Set these aside; they’ll add color and crunch to your dish.
4. Mince Garlic and Ginger: Use a sharp knife to finely chop the garlic and ginger. This will help release their delicious aromas as they cook.

Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble

1. Heat the Pan: In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle!
2. Add Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp into the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start turning pink.
3. Add Veggies: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and add the sliced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pepper softens.
4. Flavor It Up: Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir in the diced pineapple. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the sweet sauce.

Phase 3 – Serve

1. Final Touch: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
2. Present It: Serve the Pineapple Shrimp warm. Garnish with the chopped green onions on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
3. Enjoy: Grab a fork (or your chopsticks) and dig in!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Shrimp Selection: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but if using frozen, thaw them beforehand for even cooking.
• Perfect Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best, but canned pineapple in juice can work in a pinch; just drain it well.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like snap peas or broccoli for added nutrition!
• Bulk Cooking: Make extra shrimp and enjoy it on salads or wraps throughout the week.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste great for lunch the next day!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp: One of the biggest mistakes is cooking shrimp too long, which can make them tough and rubbery. Watch them closely; they only need a few minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried garlic or ginger instead of fresh can rob you of so much flavor. Fresh ingredients bring brightness and depth to the dish, making it truly delicious.

Not Prepping First: Diving straight into cooking without prepping your ingredients can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Take a moment to chop and measure; it’ll make everything smoother and more enjoyable!

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick!
• Herbal: Toss in fresh cilantro or basil for added freshness.
• Stovetop/Instant Pot: Adapt this recipe for cooking in an Instant Pot for even quicker preparation.

How to Serve Pineapple Shrimp

• Best Pairings: Serve over rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Toppings: Finish with toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime for brightness.

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 days.

Freezing

Feel free to freeze leftovers! They can last up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that some texture may change when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat your Pineapple Shrimp in the microwave for about 2 minutes or in a pan on medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well; just make sure to thaw them beforehand for even cooking.

How to make it extra creamy without cream?

You can add some coconut milk for a creamy texture without using dairy.

Can I double it?

Absolutely! Just make sure you have a large enough pan so everything cooks evenly.

How to fix a too-thick sauce?

If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Crafting this Pineapple Shrimp recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about transforming simple ingredients into a delightful, colorful dish that bursts with flavor. You’ll love the quick prep and the joyful flavors. Don’t forget to rate, comment, or check out our other tasty recipes for more culinary adventures!