Introduction:
Savor the delightful flavors of Easy Shrimp Lo Mein, a quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of a favorite Chinese takeout meal right into your kitchen. With succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and tender noodles, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Fast and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup with all ingredients cooked in one pan.
- Customizable: Adjust the veggies and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or substitute with spaghetti or other noodles)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine and Sauce:
- Return the shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- If using, add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce slightly. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Noodles: If using a different type of noodle, adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
- Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or baby corn.
Recipe Variations:
- Chicken Lo Mein: Substitute the shrimp with thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and use tofu or additional vegetables for a meatless version.
- Spicy Version: Add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of egg rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- Top with sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, though the noodles may become slightly mushy. To freeze, cool the dish completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Special Equipment:
- Skillet or Wok: For stir-frying the shrimp and vegetables.
FAQ:
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. - Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh but can be made ahead and stored as noted above. - Can I use other sauces?
You can substitute the oyster and hoisin sauces with other Asian sauces, like teriyaki or soy sauce.
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes for prep and cooking the shrimp.
Cook Time:
- 15 minutes for stir-frying and combining.
Total Time:
- 25 minutes (including prep and cook time).
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Easy Shrimp Lo Mein
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or substitute with spaghetti or other noodles)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine and Sauce:
- Return the shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- If using, add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce slightly. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 22g
Closing Notes:
Have you tried this Easy Shrimp Lo Mein? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your homemade lo mein creations and stay tuned for more delicious and easy recipes.
