Spicy Shrimp & Cashew Stir-Fry: A Fiery, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

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If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and irresistibly flavorful meal to add to your weeknight rotation, look no further than this Spicy Shrimp & Cashew Stir-Fry. Bursting with color, texture, and a perfectly balanced sweet-spicy-savory sauce, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. It’s ideal for those who love bold flavors, crunchy textures, and a dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for a cozy solo night in, or impressing guests with something restaurant-quality, this recipe is a go-to for busy home cooks who don’t want to sacrifice flavor for speed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in just about 30 minutes.
  • Nutritious & Balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
  • Customizable – Make it spicier, swap in different veggies, or go vegan.
  • Meal-Prep Friendly – Keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious stir-fry and explore all the ways you can make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup unsalted cashews
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

Kitchen Equipment

You don’t need a fancy setup to make this dish. Here’s what’s required:

  • Large non-stick skillet or wok
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Rice cooker or pot for rice/quinoa

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing and peeling the shrimp. Pat them dry and set aside. Chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets, slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, and chop the green onions. Mince your garlic and ginger to maximize their flavor in the stir-fry.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. This sauce will serve as your flavor powerhouse—savory, slightly sweet, and delightfully spicy.

3. Toast the Cashews

In a dry skillet or wok over medium-high heat, toast the cashews for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté Aromatics

Add a dash of oil to the skillet if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn.

5. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking—they’ll continue cooking slightly even after you remove them from heat.

6. Add the Veggies

Throw in the broccoli and red bell pepper, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender-crisp and vibrant.

7. Combine with Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir everything together to coat evenly. Let cook for another 2 minutes so everything melds together.

8. Finish with Cashews & Green Onions

Remove from heat. Stir in your toasted cashews and sliced green onions for the final crunch and fresh pop.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of warm rice or quinoa and serve immediately.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Stir-Fry

  • Dry Shrimp = Better Sear: Pat your shrimp dry before cooking to help them sear instead of steam.
  • Use High Heat: Stir-fries are best cooked hot and fast to keep veggies crisp and shrimp tender.
  • Customize Heat: If you’re not into spice, start with ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes—or leave them out entirely.
  • Pre-cook Grains: Make rice or quinoa the night before for faster prep.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

One of the best things about stir-fry recipes is how flexible they are. Here are some easy substitutions:

Protein Options:

  • Swap shrimp for chicken breast, tofu, or tempeh.
  • For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or edamame.

Veggie Add-ins:

  • Snow peas, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, or snap peas are great additions.
  • Spinach or kale can be added at the end to wilt into the mix.

Sauce Tweaks:

  • Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for tanginess.
  • Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
  • Add a dash of fish sauce for umami depth.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Freezer: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the shrimp and veggies’ textures, but it can be frozen in a pinch. Use within one month and reheat gently.

What to Serve With Spicy Shrimp & Cashew Stir-Fry

While this dish is satisfying on its own, here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

Side Dishes:

  • Cucumber salad with rice vinegar
  • Steamed edamame
  • Miso soup or a light broth

Drink Pairings:

  • Iced green tea or jasmine tea
  • Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
  • A light lager or citrusy IPA

FAQs About Spicy Shrimp & Cashew Stir-Fry

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce and chopped vegetables can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance. Shrimp cooks quickly, so save that for last-minute cooking.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make it nut-free?

Yes. Simply skip the cashews or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds or crunchy chickpeas.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

With the red pepper flakes toned down, it can definitely be made mild enough for kids to enjoy. Try adding a bit more honey to sweeten it up if needed.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Shrimp & Cashew Stir-Fry is the perfect answer to weeknight cooking fatigue. It’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping lunches for the week, this dish delivers every single time. With endless possibilities for customization, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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