Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas

Name: Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups snap peas, trimmed; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for sauce thickness); Sesame seeds for garnish; Cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: Islands Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas for dinner. It's a quick and delightful meal that bursts with flavor and freshness. The juicy shrimp cooked in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with crunchy snap peas. This dish has become a go-to in our household, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something satisfying yet easy to prepare. With just the right balance of protein and veggies, it's not only tasty but also a healthier choice that won't leave you feeling sluggish.

Created by

The Chefunacooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:21:19.742Z

When I first tried Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas at a local restaurant, I was instantly hooked. The complexity of flavors from the homemade teriyaki sauce combined with the fresh crunch of snap peas was irresistible. I knew I had to recreate this dish, and after a few trials, I've developed a method that consistently delivers delicious results. The key is to marinate the shrimp briefly, allowing them to soak up the flavors without losing their tenderness.

In my kitchen experiments, I found that using a mix of fresh ginger and garlic elevates the taste profile significantly. Sautéing everything over high heat ensures that the shrimp cook quickly, keeping them juicy. Don’t forget to add the snap peas at the last moment; they only need a minute or two to stay vibrant and crisp while soaking up the yummy sauce. This dish has quickly become a family favorite, and I'm sure it will be in yours too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly
Fresh and crunchy snap peas for added texture and nutrition
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The ingredients in this Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas dish work in harmony to create a balanced flavor profile. The shrimp, being a primary protein source, cook quickly, so it's crucial to choose large shrimp for better texture and flavor absorption. Look for shrimp labeled ‘U10’ or ‘31/40’ for optimal size. Freshness matters too; vibrant, firm shrimp yield the best results. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can work as well, just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

Snap peas not only add a crunchy texture but also bring bright color and nutrition to the dish. Their natural sweetness complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully. When selecting snap peas, choose those that are tender and vibrant green. Storing them in a dry, airtight container in the fridge will help maintain their crispness. If snap peas are unavailable, you can substitute with sugar snap peas or green beans for similar results, although the cooking time may vary slightly.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

The marinade is the star of the show, and each component plays a crucial role. The soy sauce provides umami and saltiness, while brown sugar balances it with sweetness, creating a rich teriyaki flavor. For an even depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of mirin or a squeeze of lime juice if available. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the optional cornstarch toward the end of cooking and let it simmer briefly; this will give the sauce a nice glossy finish and a more substantial mouthfeel.

When cooking the shrimp, avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that they sear rather than steam, locking in flavor and moisture. Medium-high heat is ideal; you'll know the shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque, typically taking about 3-4 minutes. To test doneness, look for an internal temperature of 120°F. Keep the dish moving in the pan to prevent sticking, but give it intervals of contact with the skillet for that beautiful sear.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups snap peas, trimmed
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for sauce thickness)
Sesame seeds for garnish
Cooked rice for serving

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Reserve a small amount for serving, if desired.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, mixing well, and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated shrimp and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.

Add Snap Peas

Toss in the snap peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

Serve

Drizzle any reserved marinade over the dish, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve over cooked rice.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving. For a bit of heat, you can also toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the stir-fry.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during busy weeknights, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The shrimp can also be marinated in advance; just remember to keep them covered until you're ready to cook. Similarly, you can pre-trim the snap peas and store them in an airtight container so they stay crisp. This way, when it's time to make dinner, everything is ready to go, and you can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes.

If you're planning to serve this dish to guests or want to make it for meal prep, consider cooking the shrimp and snap peas separately and reheating them briefly in the sauce when serving. This will help maintain their textures and flavors. Additionally, any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the snap peas may lose some crunch.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas over a bed of fluffy jasmine or brown rice, which can soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you could also try this dish with quinoa for an added protein boost. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

To elevate this dish, garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions just before serving. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a side salad dressed in a light sesame vinaigrette; this can balance the rich flavors of the teriyaki sauce perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for snap peas?

You can substitute snap peas with sugar snap peas or even green beans if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! Teriyaki Shrimp and Snap Peas can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.