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
Scale
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.
