Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas

Name: Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups snap peas, trimmed; 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp ginger, freshly grated; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Foreign Foods | New Tastes

I absolutely love preparing Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas because it’s a quick and delightful meal that combines succulent shrimp with crunchy snap peas. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce coats each ingredient beautifully, creating a dish that bursts with flavor. In just under 30 minutes, I can have this vibrant meal ready on the table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even entertaining guests. Plus, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste!

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:57:19.060Z

When I first tried my hand at teriyaki shrimp, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The combination of salty soy sauce with the sweet notes of honey creates a perfect balance that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and snap peas. I love to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for that extra crunch and aesthetic appeal.

One tip I've learned is to avoid overcooking the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery. I recommend sautéing them just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes only about 3-4 minutes. This way, they stay tender and juicy!

        You Will Love This Recipe Because
        Sweet and salty teriyaki sauce enhances the natural flavors.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Loaded with protein and fresh veggies for a healthy meal.

      

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When preparing Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas, the cooking technique is crucial for achieving the right texture. Start by heating the olive oil to a shimmer over medium-high heat. This temperature ensures that the garlic and ginger sauté quickly and evenly, releasing their fragrant oils without burning. Keep an eye on the aroma; once it fills your kitchen, you’re ready to add the shrimp. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so as soon as they turn pink, it's time to move to the next step.

Stirring often is essential while the shrimp cook. It allows for even cooking and helps to create a delightful caramelization on the shrimp, enhancing their sweetness. The aim is to achieve a quick sauté where the shrimp are opaque and firm, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. If you find they're taking longer, raise the heat slightly, but be mindful not to burn the ingredients that are already in the pan.

Ingredient Insights

The teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, contributing both sweetness and umami. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using tamari or coconut aminos as substitutes. Both will retain the flavor while accommodating dietary needs. Additionally, making your own teriyaki sauce can offer a fresh taste; combining soy sauce, honey, and a dash of rice vinegar will yield a vibrant alternative.

Snap peas add a delightful crunch, but versatility is key here. If snap peas aren't available, feel free to substitute with green beans or sugar snap peas. They will provide a similar crisp texture while complementing the shrimp perfectly. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly based on the vegetable used, so taste-testing as you go can make a big difference.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines when served warm, but for a delightful twist, consider presenting it over a bed of jasmine or brown rice. The rice not only soaks up the extra teriyaki sauce but also rounds out the meal with a comforting element. Alternatively, serving it over noodles, like soba or udon, can elevate the experience and provide an enjoyable noodle slurp factor.

I often top this dish with freshly sliced scallions or cilantro to add a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp and snap peas. For those who like spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha can introduce an exciting kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile and adding depth to this quick dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups snap peas, trimmed
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ginger, freshly grated
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Be sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the pan and season with a little salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until shrimp turn pink and cooked through.

Add Snap Peas and Sauce

Stir in the snap peas and pour the teriyaki sauce over the shrimp. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the snap peas are tender-crisp.

Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve the teriyaki shrimp and snap peas warm, either as is or over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse them with even more depth. Also, feel free to substitute snap peas with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for variety.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture. Adding a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce can help revive moisture and prevent the shrimp from drying out. Alternatively, the microwave can be used on low power, but be cautious not to overheat.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked shrimp and snap peas. They can last in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming. While the texture may be slightly altered after freezing, they will still maintain their flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the flavors in this dish! Adding crushed pineapple or orange zest can introduce a fruity brightness that complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully. Alternatively, you can include other vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli for added color and nutrition.

If you enjoy a thicker sauce, you can easily adjust the teriyaki by mixing a cornstarch slurry (a tablespoon of cornstarch combined with two tablespoons of water) and stirring it into the pan with the teriyaki sauce. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until it's glossy and thickened, creating a luscious coating for the shrimp and snap peas.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue is overcooking the shrimp, leading to a tough texture. To prevent this, always remove the skillet from heat as soon as the shrimp are opaque and pink throughout. If you find that the snap peas are overcooked and too soft, try reducing the cooking time to just a couple of minutes after adding them to ensure they retain their crunch.

If your dish ends up too salty, balance it out by adding a small pinch of sugar or honey to counteract the flavors. Adjusting the ratio of the teriyaki sauce can also help; consider diluting it slightly with water or adding a splash of citrus juice for brightness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

→ What can I serve alongside Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even stir-fried noodles.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.