Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry 🍍🔥

Looking for a dish that perfectly balances bold flavor, vibrant color, and quick prep time? This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry delivers a tropical twist with the heat of spices and the tangy sweetness of pineapple, making it a weeknight dinner hero or a stunning main for entertaining guests. It’s a one-pan wonder packed with juicy shrimp, caramelized pineapple, and bell peppers in a sticky, glossy sauce that’s absolutely addictive.

Whether you’re new to stir frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof, fast (under 30 minutes), and flexible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under half an hour.
• Bold Flavors: The sweetness of pineapple mingles with the umami of soy and the heat from chili flakes.
• Versatile: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even scallops.
• One Pan Magic: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Loaded with lean protein, vitamin-rich veggies, and no deep-frying needed.

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Ingredients That Make It Shine 🌟

This dish uses simple ingredients but brings them to life with clever combinations. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained if canned)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh chopped cilantro or green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Steamed jasmine rice or noodles for serving

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Everything First

Shrimp cooks in minutes, so have everything chopped and measured before you start. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels for a good sear.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.

3. Sear the Shrimp

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté Veggies and Pineapple

In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and bell pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, then toss in pineapple chunks. Stir-fry until everything gets a bit caramelized and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes.

5. Bring It All Together

Return the shrimp to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir well to coat everything. Cook another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the shrimp and veggies.

6. Serve and Garnish

Top with chopped cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve hot over a bed of rice or noodles.

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Tips for Success

• Pineapple: Fresh is best for caramelization, but canned works if you drain it well.
• Shrimp Size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for better texture and flavor.
• Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Meal Prep: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

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Pairing Ideas

Serve this stir fry with:

• Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
• Chow mein or rice noodles
• Light cucumber salad or Asian slaw
• Thai iced tea or pineapple mojito

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Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 22g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g

(Values are approximate and vary based on serving size and ingredients.)

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Make It Your Own

• Swap shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or chicken.
• Add other veggies like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots.
• Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter to the sauce for a Thai-style twist.
• Make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice or zoodles.

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Blog Story Angle (Optional for Blog Intro Section)

When I first tasted this sweet and spicy pineapple shrimp stir fry at a beachside café, I couldn’t believe something this flavorful could be so simple. The contrast of sweet pineapple and spicy sauce reminded me of tropical vacations and warm nights. After some testing and tweaking in my own kitchen, this version became a weeknight staple—because it brings those memories back in every bite.

Now, it’s one of the most shared recipes on my site, loved for its balanced flavor and ease of execution.

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📌 Save This Recipe!

Don’t forget to pin this one to your “Dinner Ideas” or “30-Minute Meals” board—it’s too good not to repeat.

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