Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry – Quick & Flavorful

There are few things more satisfying than throwing together a quick stir fry that’s absolutely packed with flavor, color, and texture. This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry is one of those dishes that looks like it took a lot of effort, but comes together in a flash—and with minimal cleanup. It’s the kind of meal I reach for on a busy weeknight when I want something fast but refuse to compromise on taste. Every bite is vibrant, thanks to the combination of juicy pineapple, tender shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and a sweet-savory sauce that hits all the right notes.

What makes this recipe so appealing isn’t just how delicious it is—it’s how doable it is. The ingredients are simple and fresh, and you can easily find them at any grocery store. Plus, this dish is naturally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, and it can be adjusted to fit different spice preferences by simply scaling the sriracha up or down.

The way the sweet pineapple caramelizes ever so slightly in the pan adds a subtle richness to the dish, while the peppers bring in some crunch and color. The shrimp, quick-cooking and juicy, soak up all the deliciousness from the sauce in just a few minutes. This dish strikes a beautiful balance between sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory—basically, all the good things in one skillet.

What really sold me on this stir fry, though, was how much my family loved it. Even my kids, who usually side-eye anything spicy, devour this every time. I think the pineapple wins them over. And let’s be honest—shrimp is always a win. This has quickly become a go-to recipe when I want to whip up something flavorful, nourishing, and crowd-pleasing with very little time.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Recipe

There are so many reasons this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. Let’s start with the most obvious: it’s delicious. The combination of tender shrimp, sweet pineapple, and just the right amount of heat from the sriracha creates a flavor profile that’s both exciting and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that surprises you with how much depth it has, despite being made with just a few simple ingredients.

One of the best things about this recipe is how incredibly quick and easy it is. You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, which makes it ideal for those hectic evenings when you just don’t have the time—or energy—for anything complicated. The cooking process is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You don’t need any fancy techniques or equipment, and most of the steps involve simply tossing ingredients into a pan and letting the flavors develop.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Don’t eat shrimp? Swap it out for chicken, tofu, or even tempeh. Want more veggies? Go ahead and toss in some snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. This recipe is easy to customize based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers.

Another big plus? It’s vibrant and colorful, which always makes a meal more fun to eat. The mix of red and yellow bell peppers, green herbs, and golden pineapple looks as good as it tastes. And the finishing touches—fresh cilantro, mint, scallions, and optional Fresno chiles—bring everything together beautifully with a pop of freshness.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a family, or entertaining friends, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser. It feels special enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a Wednesday night. That’s the magic of a great stir fry.

Health Benefits of this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp

This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry isn’t just tasty—it’s also a nourishing, well-balanced meal packed with nutrients that your body will thank you for. Shrimp is the star of this dish, and it’s an excellent source of lean protein. Just one serving provides about 20 grams of protein with minimal fat, making it a great option if you’re looking to maintain or build muscle without overloading on calories. It’s also rich in key vitamins and minerals, including selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12, which support thyroid function, brain health, and energy metabolism.

The bell peppers in this stir fry bring in a serious nutritional punch. Red and yellow peppers are rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which helps support immune health and collagen production. They also contain carotenoids like beta-carotene and lutein, which are great for eye health. Their crunchy texture and natural sweetness make them not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying.

Pineapple isn’t just here for sweetness—it offers a unique enzyme called bromelain that aids digestion and may help reduce inflammation. It’s also a great source of vitamin C and manganese, both of which contribute to healthy bones and immune function.

Ginger, one of the key aromatics in the recipe, has long been celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. It adds a zingy warmth to the dish while helping support a healthy gut. Meanwhile, the fresh herbs—cilantro, mint, and scallions—aren’t just garnish. They’re loaded with antioxidants and can help detoxify the body, improve digestion, and add an extra layer of flavor without adding calories.

If you’re serving this stir fry over brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice, you’re getting a solid source of fiber as well. This helps stabilize blood sugar, keeps you feeling full longer, and supports digestive health. In short, this is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is actually doing a lot of good behind the scenes.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe is designed to be quick and convenient, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, last-minute hosting, or meal prep. Everything cooks in one skillet or pan, which means minimal cleanup—and maximum flavor. Here’s a closer look at what to expect in terms of time and nutrition:

Total Preparation and Cooking Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 20–25 minutes

Servings:
This recipe yields 1 serving as written, but it can easily be scaled up to feed more people. Just double or triple the ingredients and use a larger skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 720mg

Of course, the exact nutrition numbers will vary depending on the brand of ingredients you use, especially the soy sauce and oil. If you’re aiming for a lower-sodium version, look for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, and you can also adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spice level.

This dish checks off all the boxes: quick, flavorful, protein-rich, and filled with colorful produce. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something light but satisfying, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to round out your meal.

Ingredients List of this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp

Let’s break down what you’ll need to bring this delicious Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry to life. While the ingredient list is short and sweet, each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

1 Tbsp vegetable oil
Used to sauté the aromatics and cook the shrimp. You can substitute with avocado oil or another neutral oil if preferred.

1 small red onion, sliced
Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. Sautéed red onions develop a mellow flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
Fresh ginger is essential for its warm, slightly spicy aroma. It pairs beautifully with pineapple and shrimp, adding complexity to the stir fry.

½ red bell pepper + ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
These provide crunch, color, and a natural sweetness that balances the heat from the sriracha and the tang of the rice vinegar.

½ cup pineapple chunks
Pineapple brings a tropical sweetness that really sets this dish apart. It also adds juiciness and a slight caramelization when cooked.

1 serving shrimp (approx. 6–8 medium, peeled and deveined)
The star protein of the dish. Shrimp cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully, making them ideal for fast stir fries.

1 Tbsp soy sauce
Adds a salty, umami depth that ties everything together. For a gluten-free version, use tamari.

1 Tbsp rice vinegar
This adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and the saltiness of the soy sauce.

¾ tsp sriracha (optional)
For a bit of heat and extra flavor. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Cilantro, scallions, Fresno chile, mint (for garnish)
These fresh garnishes add color, freshness, and a burst of flavor at the end. Don’t skip them—they elevate the whole dish.

Cooked rice, for serving
Use your favorite rice—white, brown, jasmine, or even cauliflower rice if you’re going low-carb. It soaks up all that delicious sauce.

With this ingredient list in hand, you’re well on your way to making a flavorful, satisfying stir fry that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Next up, let’s walk through the step-by-step cooking instructions to bring it all together.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients and have a sense of what makes this dish special, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. The steps are simple and approachable, whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook. And the best part? Everything comes together in just one pan, which makes cleanup a breeze. Here’s exactly how to make this sweet and spicy pineapple shrimp stir fry from start to finish.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients Before You Start Cooking
Before turning on the stove, take a few minutes to prep everything. Slice your red onion into thin strips. Mince the ginger finely. Slice your red and yellow bell peppers into even strips so they cook uniformly. If you’re using fresh pineapple, cut it into small chunks. Peel and devein your shrimp if they aren’t already cleaned. This prep work is key—it ensures the cooking process flows smoothly without any stress or scrambling.

Step 2: Heat the Oil and Sauté the Aromatics
Set a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the sliced red onion and minced ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the onions to begin softening and the ginger to release its lovely fragrance. This base layer creates the aromatic foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers and Pineapple
Next, toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the pineapple chunks. Stir everything together to coat in the oil and aromatics. Let the mixture cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the peppers will begin to soften while still retaining a bit of crunch, and the pineapple will start to caramelize slightly around the edges, intensifying its sweetness.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp to the Skillet
Once the peppers and pineapple are tender-crisp and golden in spots, push them to the sides of the pan and add your shrimp directly to the center. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to develop a bit of a sear. Then flip them and cook for another 1–2 minutes on the other side. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque—be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Step 5: Stir in the Sauce Ingredients
With the shrimp just about done, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. If you’re adding heat, include the ¾ teaspoon of sriracha here as well. Stir the entire mixture gently but thoroughly, making sure the sauce coats the shrimp, pineapple, and peppers evenly. Let it simmer for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Taste
Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Want it saltier? Add a splash more soy sauce. Prefer it tangier? Add a tiny bit more vinegar. Need more heat? A little extra sriracha does the trick. Customizing the sauce to your taste is part of what makes stir fry cooking so fun and flexible.

Step 7: Serve the Stir Fry Over Rice
Spoon the sweet and spicy pineapple shrimp stir fry over a bowl of warm, cooked rice. Jasmine or basmati rice works beautifully, but brown rice adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you’re keeping things low-carb, serve it over cauliflower rice or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Step 8: Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Extras
Finish your dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs—chopped cilantro, thinly sliced scallions, mint leaves, and (if you like a little extra heat) thin slices of Fresno chile. These garnishes don’t just make the dish pop visually—they also add bright, cooling, and herbaceous notes that balance the sweet and spicy flavors.

Step 9: Plate and Enjoy Immediately
Serve your stir fry hot and fresh, straight from the pan. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the shrimp is still tender and the pineapple is warm and juicy. If you’re preparing a larger batch, keep it warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

Cooking this dish is all about building layers of flavor, balancing sweet with heat, and letting the ingredients shine. With just a few steps and one pan, you get a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant—but made in the comfort of your own kitchen.

How to Serve this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp

Presentation and pairing can really elevate this stir fry into a complete, satisfying meal. While it’s perfectly delicious on its own, there are several ways to customize your plate to make it feel even more special and nourishing. Here are a few serving suggestions that make this dish shine even brighter:

Serve Over a Fluffy Bed of Rice
The most traditional way to serve this dish is over a steaming bowl of rice. Jasmine rice has a lovely floral aroma that pairs beautifully with the pineapple and shrimp. Basmati rice works well too, offering a drier, fluffier texture. For added nutrition, brown rice or even wild rice are great options, bringing in a nutty flavor and more fiber.

Try It with Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice
If you’re looking to mix things up or keep things lighter, this dish is excellent served over quinoa. It adds a subtle crunch and boosts the protein content. Cauliflower rice is another great low-carb option. It soaks up the sauce without competing with the flavors.

Turn It Into Lettuce Wraps
For a fun, hands-on twist, spoon the stir fry into large butter lettuce leaves and serve as wraps. This makes for a lighter, fresh-tasting meal that’s perfect in warm weather or as a party-friendly appetizer.

Serve With Fresh Lime Wedges
A squeeze of lime adds a bright pop of acidity that lifts the whole dish. It complements the sweet pineapple and balances the richness of the shrimp.

Top with Extra Herbs for Freshness
Fresh herbs are more than a garnish here. Don’t skimp! Cilantro, mint, and scallions add layers of flavor that make each bite taste alive and vibrant. A few slices of Fresno chile give a little sparkle of heat and color, too.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish is flavorful on its own, but the right sides and drinks can take it to the next level. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or serving guests, here are some great options to round out your meal:

Side Dish Pairings

• Coconut Rice: The creamy, slightly sweet flavor of coconut rice complements the heat and acidity of the stir fry beautifully.
• Steamed or Stir-Fried Greens: Try bok choy, spinach, or Chinese broccoli. Their mild, earthy flavor balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Spring Rolls or Dumplings: For a fun and festive meal, start with veggie spring rolls or dumplings on the side. Keep them light to let the stir fry shine.

Drink Pairings

• Lemon Ginger Iced Tea: A refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage that plays well with the flavors of ginger and pineapple.
• Sparkling Water with Lime and Mint: Simple and effective, this combo cools the palate and enhances the dish’s fresh herbs.
• Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: Try a pineapple-mango or hibiscus tea for something a bit more exotic and complementary.

Kid-Friendly Options

• Mild Fruit Punch or Apple Juice: These can balance out the mild spice in the dish.
• Plain Rice and Cucumber Sticks on the Side: For younger eaters, serve the stir fry with plain rice and simple veggies to keep things approachable.

The key is to keep your pairings fresh, light, and full of flavor. This dish already brings a lot to the table, so let your sides and drinks enhance without overwhelming.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the many reasons I love making this sweet and spicy pineapple shrimp stir fry is that it stores and reheats like a dream. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or have leftovers you don’t want to waste, this dish holds up beautifully in the fridge and even in the freezer with a few simple techniques.

Storing Leftovers in the Fridge

If you plan to eat your leftovers within a few days, storing them in the refrigerator is the way to go. Here’s how:

• Cool First: Allow the stir fry to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which could make the shrimp rubbery or the vegetables soggy.
• Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled stir fry into an airtight glass or BPA-free plastic container. This helps retain the flavor and texture of the dish while keeping it fresh.
• Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the shrimp may start to lose their tenderness, and the peppers may become overly soft.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you’d like to keep this meal for a later date, freezing is a great option, although some textures may change slightly upon reheating:

• Flash Freeze Method: Spread the cooked shrimp, peppers, and pineapple in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1 hour until solid.
• Store in Freezer Bags or Containers: Once frozen, transfer the stir fry to a labeled freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Be sure to press out any excess air.
• Shelf Life in Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, consume within 4–6 weeks.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to bring them back to life without overcooking the shrimp:

• From the Fridge: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently. If the sauce has thickened or dried out a bit, add a splash of water or low-sodium broth to loosen it.
• From Frozen: Allow the dish to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or microwave it using the defrost setting. Once thawed, heat in a pan or microwave as usual.

Reheating in the Microwave
Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in 45-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through (about 2–3 minutes total, depending on your microwave’s strength). Be careful not to overheat—the shrimp can become rubbery if microwaved too long.

This dish is ideal for meal prep because it maintains its flavor over time. While the peppers may lose a bit of their initial crunch after being refrigerated or frozen, the overall flavor remains vibrant and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it fresh, the next day, or weeks later, it’s just as crave-worthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a quick and easy recipe like this one has a few pitfalls to watch for. Avoiding these common mistakes can make all the difference between a so-so stir fry and one that’s totally restaurant-worthy.

1. Overcooking the Shrimp
Shrimp cook incredibly fast—just 2 to 3 minutes is usually all they need. If you let them cook too long, they can become rubbery and dry. To avoid this, keep an eye on them and remove the pan from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

2. Crowding the Pan
When you’re scaling up the recipe for multiple servings, it’s tempting to throw everything into one skillet. But overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying, which prevents that lovely caramelization on your veggies and pineapple. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain a good sear.

3. Not Prepping Ingredients in Advance
This dish moves quickly once you start cooking, so having your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go is essential. Stir fries are all about timing and high heat—pausing to chop bell peppers mid-cook can result in burnt onions or unevenly cooked shrimp.

4. Using Canned Pineapple with Added Sugar
If you’re using canned pineapple, make sure it’s packed in juice and not syrup. Syrupy pineapple will make the dish overly sweet and may cause it to burn in the pan. Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned is perfectly fine as long as it’s unsweetened.

5. Skimping on the Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and scallions might seem like optional extras, but they really do elevate the dish. Don’t skip them—they add freshness, contrast, and an aromatic finish that ties everything together.

Avoiding these small but important missteps will help you create a dish that’s not only full of flavor but also perfectly balanced in texture and presentation.

Pro Tips

Whether you’re new to stir frying or already a seasoned pro, these tips will help you get the best results every single time. They’re small tweaks that have a big impact on the final flavor and texture of your dish.

1. Use High Heat—but Don’t Walk Away
Stir fries thrive on high heat, which helps caramelize the sugars in the pineapple and brown the shrimp beautifully. But high heat also means things cook fast—so stay nearby, stir often, and don’t get distracted while cooking.

2. Dry Your Shrimp Before Cooking
After rinsing your shrimp, pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will cause them to steam rather than sear. Dry shrimp develop that slightly crispy exterior and juicy interior that make them so satisfying.

3. Add Sauce at the End
Rather than starting with the sauce, cook your aromatics, veggies, and protein first. Then add the sauce ingredients toward the end so they coat everything evenly without burning. A quick simmer is all they need to mingle and thicken.

4. Customize Your Heat
If you’re serving a crowd or making this for kids, consider making the stir fry without sriracha and serving it on the side. This way, everyone can control their own level of spice without affecting the whole batch.

5. Toast Your Rice for Extra Flavor
This is a small bonus tip, but it’s one of my favorites: once your rice is cooked, toss it into a dry pan for a few minutes to toast it slightly before serving. It adds a nutty flavor and firmer texture that pairs really well with the sweet and spicy stir fry.

These tips are all about enhancing flavor, maximizing texture, and giving you more control over the final outcome. They’re especially helpful if you’re making this dish for the first time and want to knock it out of the park.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear instead of steam and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.

What kind of rice works best with this recipe?
Jasmine rice is my go-to because of its floral aroma and soft texture. However, basmati, brown rice, or even quinoa are great alternatives. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a solid choice.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely. You can replace the shrimp with cubed tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove moisture before frying so it gets crispy. Add it after the veggies have softened to maintain texture.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Be sure to double-check your other condiments for any hidden gluten ingredients.

How spicy is the dish?
The heat level is mild to moderate with ¾ tsp of sriracha. You can scale it up or down depending on your preference. For zero heat, omit the sriracha altogether.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Snap peas, broccoli, mushrooms, baby corn, or shredded carrots would all work beautifully in this stir fry. Just be mindful of cooking times—harder vegetables like broccoli may need to be blanched first.

What oil should I use for stir frying?
Use a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable oil, avocado oil, or peanut oil. Avoid olive oil for high-heat stir frying, as it can burn quickly.

Can I meal prep this in advance?
Yes. You can chop your veggies and mix the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and combine everything when you’re ready to cook. Cooked stir fry also holds up well in the fridge for a few days.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs for garnish?
Fresh herbs add great flavor, but if you’re out, you can skip them or use dried herbs sparingly. Another great option is a squeeze of lime juice for freshness.

How do I keep my peppers from getting soggy?
Don’t overcook them. Add them once the aromatics have softened and only sauté for 4–5 minutes. They should be tender but still have a bit of crunch for texture.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Stir Fry is one of those rare recipes that checks every single box. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to fit into any diet, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends. And perhaps most importantly—it’s just plain fun to make and eat.

Every element, from the juicy caramelized pineapple to the tender shrimp and colorful peppers, works together to create a dish that’s comforting and exciting at the same time. The bright fresh herbs and a perfectly balanced sauce take it over the top. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, you can feel confident putting this stir fry on the table.

I hope this recipe becomes a go-to for you like it has for me. When you make it, don’t forget to take a photo and share it—I’d love to see your version. Tag me on social media, drop a comment, or send me a message. Let’s keep cooking delicious, joyful meals together.

Now grab your skillet, prep those ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with this pineapple shrimp stir fry. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

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