Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and spicy chile with silky rice noodles. The shrimp is stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and chile, creating a bold, savory base. The rice noodles absorb all the flavors, while the lemon adds a refreshing burst of citrus that balances the heat and richness. This dish is quick to prepare and full of fresh, aromatic ingredients.
I first made Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles when I was craving a spicy, zesty seafood dish, and it turned out to be a perfect balance of flavors! The tender shrimp and spicy heat from the chile, along with the lightness of the rice noodles, make it a satisfying yet fresh meal. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can adjust the level of spice, toss in some veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, or even use soba noodles instead of rice noodles for variety. Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a date night, or any time you want a quick and flavorful dish!
Perfect for:
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Seafood lovers
- Asian-inspired meals
- Outdoor gatherings
- Spicy food enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles will become your go-to dish:
- Bold Flavor Profile: The combination of spicy chili and tangy lemon creates a mouthwatering balance of heat and freshness.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: The shrimp are tender and juicy, absorbing all the savory flavors from the sauce.
- Light and Satisfying: The rice noodles add texture while keeping the dish light and not too heavy.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of chili to suit your preferred spice level.
- Fresh and Zesty: The lemon adds a refreshing kick that brightens up the entire dish.
- Make-Ahead Option: The shrimp and noodles can be prepped ahead of time, making it easy to stir-fry when you’re ready to eat.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required as everything cooks together in one pan.
- Packed with Vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
- Vibrant Presentation: The bright colors of the dish make it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Noodles:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For the Optional Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup spinach (or other leafy greens)
Ingredient Highlights
- Fresh Shrimp: Adds protein and flavor, perfectly complemented by the bold sauce.
- Rice Noodles: Light and chewy, these noodles are a great base for absorbing the sauce.
- Chili and Lemon: The chili adds heat, while lemon offers a refreshing citrus zing to balance the flavors.
- Fish Sauce: This savory sauce brings a deep umami flavor to the dish.
- Soy Sauce: Provides a salty and savory base that enhances the dish’s richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the Rice Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Toss with Oil: Lightly toss the noodles with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
The Shrimp:
- Heat the Oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic and Chili: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté garlic, ginger, and sliced chili for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add Vegetables: If using vegetables, toss them into the pan and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
Combine the Shrimp and Noodles:
- Add Shrimp and Noodles: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Add the rice noodles and toss everything together to coat with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 more minutes to heat everything through.
- Garnish: Stir in lemon zest and chopped green onions. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Serve:
- Plate and Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot with extra chili slices or lemon wedges on the side.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles:
- As a Quick Dinner: Perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but craving bold flavors.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge and makes for a great meal the next day.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch.
- As a Light Lunch: Ideal for a light yet satisfying lunch that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.
- With Rice: Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice if you prefer a more filling meal.
- As a Topping for Soup: Add the stir-fry to a bowl of hot broth for a noodle soup version.
- With Crusty Bread: Pair with a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover sauce.
- For Outdoor Gatherings: Serve this dish at a BBQ or picnic for a spicy and zesty treat.
- With Cold Drinks: Pair with chilled iced tea or sparkling water to balance the heat.
Additional Tips
- Adjust the Spice: For a milder version, use less chili or remove the seeds before adding.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will add the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work just as well when thawed properly.
- Make the Dish Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for more variety.
- Noodles Not Sticking: Toss cooked noodles in a bit of oil to prevent them from sticking together.
- Fresh Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest at the end for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based meal.
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp Noodles: Add extra garlic and chili paste for an even spicier version.
- Coconut-Lemon Shrimp: Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamier, slightly tropical twist.
- Sweet and Sour Noodles: Add a tablespoon of honey or pineapple juice for a sweet contrast to the chili.
- Thai Basil Version: Stir in fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, Thai-inspired twist.
- Peanut Sauce: Swap the sauce for a peanut-based sauce for a nutty flavor boost.
Special Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet: A large pan is ideal for stir-frying the shrimp and noodles.
- Strainer or Colander: For draining the rice noodles after cooking.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the vegetables, shrimp, and garlic.
- Lemon Zester: For zesting the lemon to add flavor to the sauce.
- Tongs or Chopsticks: To toss the noodles and shrimp together with ease.
FAQ Section
- Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use soba noodles, udon, or even spaghetti if you prefer. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles for a gluten-free version. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, swap the shrimp for tofu, tempeh, or another protein of your choice. - Can I freeze the stir-fry?
While not ideal for freezing, you can freeze the shrimp and noodles separately before stir-frying for a quick future meal. - What should I serve with this dish?
Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add more chili or a dash of chili paste to increase the heat. - Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them before using. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to suit your taste. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with the freshness of lemon and the bold heat of chili, all tossed with tender rice noodles in a savory stir-fry. The dish is quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or whenever you’re craving something light yet satisfying. The shrimp is seasoned with chili and lemon, creating a zesty, spicy contrast that pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy noodles.
The rice noodles soak up the tangy, spicy sauce, adding flavor with every bite. You can customize the dish by adding veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to boost the freshness and color. For an added touch of flavor, a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil can be added right before serving.
I can’t wait to see how your Stir-Fried Chile-Lemon Shrimp and Rice Noodles turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!