If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, textures, and a touch of tropical sweetness, this Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines succulent shrimp with juicy pineapple chunks, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked basmati rice, all tossed together with savory soy sauce and a hint of spice. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends with something a little different, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master yet packed with enough flavor to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe truly shine. Each component brings something special, whether it’s the fluffy basmati rice that soaks up all those amazing flavors, the tangy pineapple for a refreshing contrast, or the fresh herbs to brighten every bite.
- Basmati Rice: Use boil-in-bags for convenience and perfectly fluffy grains every time.
- Pineapple Tidbits or Chunks: Choose canned in pineapple juice for that juicy, sweet burst of flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Chives: Freshly chopped to add a subtle onion-like freshness.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley lifts the dish with a vibrant green note and freshness.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch to give a mild spicy kick without overpowering the sweetness.
- Gulf Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled, deveined, and tails removed for ease of eating and cooking.
- Olive Oil: Divided use to control cooking temperatures and add a silky texture.
- Garlic: Minced or grated to release deep, aromatic flavors throughout the dish.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: For that perfect umami flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory soy and spicy flakes.
How to Make Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by preparing the basmati rice according to the package instructions, ideally using boil-in-bags for simplicity and perfect texture. Set the cooked rice aside once it’s fluffy and light – this is the perfect canvas for the dish’s bold flavors.
Step 2: Mix the Pineapple and Herbs
While your rice is cooking, combine the pineapple tidbits with all their juice, chopped chives, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl. This mix adds a juicy, fresh burst that will pop in your mouth when heated with the other ingredients, balancing savory and sweet beautifully.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp and sauté for about 3 minutes until they’re just cooked through and opaque. Removing the shrimp from the pan now ensures they stay tender and don’t overcook during the final steps.
Step 4: Infuse Garlic Flavor
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant – this quick step infuses the oil and ultimately the entire dish with warm, rich garlic flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Heat Everything Through
Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce and sugar. Stir continuously, letting the rice soak up all those mouthwatering flavors and heat evenly. Finally, toss in the pineapple mixture and cooked shrimp, cooking for another minute or so until the entire dish is piping hot and perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley on top adds a beautiful pop of green and a fresh herbal note. For a bit more zing, add a wedge of lime or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor depth.
Side Dishes
This fried rice pairs wonderfully with crisp Asian-inspired salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or even a simple cucumber salad to cool the palate and add crunch. Light spring rolls or dumplings can make it feel like a full meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe inside hollowed-out pineapple halves. This not only amps up the tropical vibe but also makes for a stunning presentation perfect for dinner parties or weekend gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it just as delicious the next day if not better!
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze it in portions inside freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before freezing to maintain freshness and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it from drying out. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! While basmati rice works beautifully because of its fluffy texture, jasmine or long-grain white rice are excellent alternatives that will soak up the flavors nicely.
Is frozen shrimp okay to use?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly well. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to get the best texture and to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure thing! Simply omit the shrimp and consider adding tofu cubes or a medley of vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas to keep it hearty and delicious.
How spicy is this recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that balances the sweetness of the pineapple. However, you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely to suit your spice preference.
What’s the best way to store leftover fried rice to keep it fresh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge as soon as it cools down to keep the rice fluffy and prevent it from drying out. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Give this Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe a try the next time you want something bright, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s a fantastic way to bring a bit of sunshine to your dinner table with an irresistible mix of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. I promise it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to for busy nights or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Print
Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Easy Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice recipe combines succulent shrimp with sweet pineapple tidbits, fragrant herbs, and savory soy sauce to create a vibrant and satisfying one-pan meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish balances flavors and textures in a colorful, tropical-inspired fried rice that’s both simple to prepare and deliciously wholesome.
Ingredients
Rice
- 2 boil-in-bags of Basmati Rice
Protein
- 1–1/2 lb fresh or frozen gulf shrimp (peeled, deveined with the tails removed)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 Tbsp chives (chopped)
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
Fruits
- 20 oz can pineapple tidbits or chunks in pineapple juice (undrained)
Oils and Sauces
- 3 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
Spices and Sweeteners
- 1/2 tsp dried crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
- Cook Rice: Prepare the basmati rice according to the package instructions in their boil-in-bags form. Once cooked, set the rice aside to keep warm.
- Mix Pineapple and Herbs: In a medium bowl, combine the undrained pineapple tidbits or chunks with the chopped chives, fresh parsley, and dried crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently to mix and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Garlic: Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring often, for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Rice and Flavors: Add the cooked rice, low-sodium soy sauce, and sugar to the skillet. Stir constantly, cooking until the rice is thoroughly heated and evenly coated with the sauce.
- Finish with Pineapple and Shrimp: Stir in the pineapple mixture and cooked shrimp. Cook for an additional minute, stirring gently, until everything is heated through and flavors are well combined. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep sodium content moderate.
- Try garnishing with additional fresh parsley or chopped green onions for extra freshness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
