Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of the Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry?
This dish is a vibrant mix of heat from cayenne pepper, freshness from lemon zest, and savory notes from minced garlic and green onions.
How much shrimp do I need for this recipe?
The recipe requires 3/4 lb of medium-sized peeled raw shrimp.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Medium-sized peeled raw shrimp are recommended for the best results.
How should I season the shrimp before cooking?
In a bowl, toss the raw shrimp with one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
What kind of oil is used for the stir fry?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of canola oil, heated until shimmering.
How long should I sauté the shrimp?
Sauté the shrimp over high heat for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
Do I leave the shrimp in the pan while cooking the vegetables?
No, you should remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside once they are cooked, then return them at the very end.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe uses 3 cloves of minced garlic.
How much green onion is required?
You will need 3/4 cup of sliced green onions.
What vegetables are included in this stir fry?
It includes 1 1/2 cups of snow peas and 4 cups of mixed chopped vegetables like peppers, carrots, celery, and broccoli.
How do I prepare the snow peas?
The strings should be removed from the snow peas before adding them to the pan.
What type of broth can I use?
You can use either chicken broth or vegetable broth depending on your preference.
How much broth is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of chicken or vegetable broth.
What is the cooking time for the vegetables?
The vegetables should be cooked for approximately 3 minutes over medium heat until they are crisp-tender.
When should I add the lemon zest?
Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest when you return the cooked shrimp to the pan during the final minute of cooking.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve the stir fry hot over a bed of fluffy cooked rice.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is a fast and nourishing meal ideal for busy weeknights.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by substituting the shrimp with a plant-based protein like tofu and using vegetable broth, it becomes vegetarian-friendly.
What gives the dish its 'spicy' kick?
The heat comes from one teaspoon of cayenne pepper tossed with the shrimp.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy meal featuring lean protein and a large volume of fresh vegetables.
What heat setting should I use for the initial sauté?
Use high heat for the shrimp to ensure they cook quickly without becoming rubbery.
What heat setting is used for the vegetables?
Reduce the heat to medium when adding the vegetables and broth.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients: salt, cayenne, shrimp, oil, garlic, green onion, snow peas, mixed veggies, broth, and lemon zest.
Can I use different vegetables than the ones listed?
Yes, the recipe allows for your choice of chopped vegetables such as peppers, carrots, celery, or broccoli.
What does 'crisp-tender' mean?
It means the vegetables are cooked enough to be easy to bite but still retain a slight crunch and vibrant color.
How do I ensure the flavors meld together?
After returning the shrimp and adding lemon zest, cook everything together for an additional 1 minute.
How should the garlic and onions be cooked?
Sauté the minced garlic and sliced green onions for about 1 minute until they become fragrant.
Can I use lemon juice instead of zest?
While zest provides a concentrated citrus aroma, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice if you prefer a more acidic flavor.
Is this dish suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is described as a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
How do I prepare the shrimp?
The shrimp should be raw and peeled before starting the cooking process.