Seafood Fried Rice with Grilled Shrimp
Introduction
This Seafood Fried Rice is a vibrant, flavor‑packed dish that combines tender shrimp, colorful vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice. Topped with smoky grilled shrimp, it’s a restaurant‑quality meal you can make at home. Whether served as a main course or a show‑stopping side, this recipe is quick, customizable, and guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Balanced flavors: Savory soy sauce, smoky paprika, and fresh herbs.
Texture perfection: Fluffy rice, crisp veggies, and juicy shrimp.
Customizable: Add more seafood, swap veggies, or adjust spice.
Quick & easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
2 cups cooked rice (cold, day‑old preferred)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp vegetable oil
½ cup chopped bell peppers (red, green, or both)
¼ cup finely chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup frozen peas (optional)
¼ cup diced carrots
2 eggs, lightly beaten
¼ cup soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)
For the Grilled Shrimp
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Shrimp
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium‑high.
Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Grill 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium‑high.
Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add carrots and peas, cook another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Rice & Eggs
Push veggies to one side. Add cold rice, breaking up clumps. Stir together.
Pour beaten eggs into empty space, scramble until cooked, then mix into rice.
Step 4: Season & Finish
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until heated through.
Spoon fried rice into serving dish. Arrange grilled shrimp on top.
Garnish with green onions and parsley or cilantro.
Pro Tips
Use day‑old rice for the best texture.
Drizzle extra soy sauce or sesame oil before serving for added flavor.
Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Swap shrimp for scallops, crab, or mixed seafood for variety.
Variations
Thai‑Inspired: Add fish sauce, lime juice, and fresh basil.
Vegetarian: Omit shrimp and add tofu or mushrooms.
Luxury Twist: Top with seared scallops or lobster chunks.
Low‑Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Serving Ideas
Serve with miso soup or a crisp cucumber salad.
Pair with chilled white wine or sparkling water with lime.
Present in a large platter for family‑style dining.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before grilling.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes, fried rice reheats well. Grill shrimp fresh for best flavor.
Q: Can I use other oils?
Sesame oil adds depth, but avocado or peanut oil also work.
Final Thoughts
This Seafood Fried Rice with Grilled Shrimp is a colorful, flavorful dish that’s as easy as it is impressive. With smoky shrimp, fluffy rice, and crisp veggies, it’s a recipe worth adding to your weeknight rotation or serving at your next gathering.