Name: Irresistibly Easy Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein in Just 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Lo mein noodles (Can substitute with spaghetti or ramen.); 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil.); 1 cup Carrots (Can swap for bell peppers or crunchy veggies.); 1 lb Raw shrimp (Fresh or thawed frozen, or use firm tofu for vegetarian.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 3 tbsp Low sodium soy sauce (Can use regular soy sauce.); 3 tbsp Teriyaki sauce (Optional to adjust sweetness.); 2 scallions Green onions (Chopped for freshness.); 1 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes (Optional for spice.); 1 tbsp Sesame seeds (For topping.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but think how a quick dinner could feel so extraordinary. This Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein is the answer to those busy weeknights when you crave the comfort of takeout while still wanting something homemade and fresh. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a steaming bowl of succulent shrimp tossed with vibrant veggies, savory sauces, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles, all coated in a delightful teriyaki glaze.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its depth of flavor but also in its versatility. Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on what you have on hand or even switch out the shrimp for chicken or tofu—endless possibilities await! So, let’s dive into this quick but satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple in your home. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein

Simplicity at Its Best: This dish delivers in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those weeknights when your schedule is tight but you still want something delicious.

Flavor Explosion: A delightful blend of tender shrimp, vibrant veggies, and a teriyaki glaze brings a taste of takeout right to your kitchen, ensuring everyone will be smiling at the dinner table.

Customizable Goodness: The flexibility of this recipe allows you to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, like chicken or tofu, ensuring a personalized touch every time.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly suited for family dinners or gatherings, this dish impresses guests with its fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a guaranteed hit.

Fast & Fun: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can savor a homemade meal without requiring excessive effort—ideal for busy nights!

For a refreshing side, consider pairing it with some steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad for added crunch!

Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this scrumptious teriyaki shrimp lo mein!

For the Noodles

Lo mein noodles – These noodles offer the perfect texture; you can easily substitute with spaghetti or ramen if needed.

For the Stir-Fry

Extra virgin olive oil – This adds a smooth flavor and withstands high heat; vegetable oil works well as a substitute.
Carrots – They provide sweet crunch; feel free to swap them for bell peppers or any preferred crunchy veggies!
Raw shrimp – The star protein; fresh or thawed frozen shrimp is recommended, but you can use firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Garlic – Essential for flavor; adjust the quantity to suit your personal taste.
Low sodium soy sauce – This keeps the saltiness in check; regular soy sauce is an option, but be mindful of other salt components.
Teriyaki sauce – Gives the dish a lovely sweetness; you can omit it for a less sweet flavor or make a sauce with soy sauce and sugar if you prefer.
Green onions – They add a burst of freshness and color; chives can be a good substitute, or simply leave them out if need be.
Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional for a kick; tweak according to your spice preference or replace with chili garlic sauce for added heat.

For Garnish

Sesame seeds – These add a nutty flavor and crunch; a sprinkle on top takes this dish to the next level.

Now, gather these ingredients and get ready to create a vibrant dish that’s not only delicious but also homemade with love!

How to Make Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein

Boil the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under warm water to prevent stickiness.
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Sauté the sliced carrots for about 2 minutes until they become slightly tender and vibrant in color.
Add the raw shrimp to the skillet, cooking for about 3 minutes. Keep an eye out for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re perfectly cooked.
Stir in the minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, green onions, noodles, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to combine all the flavors.
Serve immediately by removing from heat. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions before indulging in your delicious creation.

Optional: For extra flavor, consider a dash of sesame oil just before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent noodles from sticking together while refrigerated.
Freezer: For longer storage, portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth for about 5 minutes. This helps to revitalize the dish’s flavors and textures.

Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and personalize it to suit your tastes and preferences!

Dairy-Free: All ingredients in this dish are naturally dairy-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegetarian: Swap shrimp for firm tofu or tempeh, ensuring you still get a protein-packed meal without the seafood.
Extra Veggies: Load up on colors by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy; they provide crunch and a nutrient boost.
Spicy Twist: For heat lovers, add sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Noodle Alternatives: If you’re out of lo mein noodles, try using rice noodles or whole wheat spaghetti for a healthful twist.
Teriyaki Sauce Upgrade: Create your own teriyaki glaze using soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil for a homemade touch full of flavor.
Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of toasted cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunch and nutty depth that balances the dish beautifully.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish and add a refreshing zing to each bite.

Expert Tips for Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein

Perfect Shrimp Texture: Ensure shrimp is completely thawed and patted dry for optimal cooking; overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery.
Noodle Preparation: Boil lo mein noodles until al dente, and rinse with warm water to prevent sticking; this step is crucial for the best texture.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas; this keeps the dish exciting and customizable each time.
Flavor Adjustments: Adjust the amount of teriyaki sauce according to your taste preference; using too much can overwhelm the dish’s freshness.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container, drizzling a bit of sesame oil to keep noodles from sticking; aim to consume within three days for the best quality.

What to Serve with Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein?

Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the vibrant flavors of your homemade lo mein.

Steamed Broccoli: A classic pairing, its subtle crunch and bright color enhance the meal while providing a nutritious contrast.
Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this light salad dressed in rice vinegar gives a cooling effect that balances the savory warmth of the lo mein.
Egg Rolls: These crispy, flavorful bites bring texture and a delicious, indulgent element to your dinner table, making every bite a celebration.
Sesame Green Beans: Quickly sautéed in sesame oil, they offer a nutty, fresh flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the teriyaki sauce.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this dessert brings a tropical flair that is both satisfying and light, rounding off your meal on a delightful note!
Chilled Sake or Jasmine Tea: Enhance your dining experience with a crisp sake or traditional jasmine tea, both of which beautifully complement the umami notes of the dish and refresh the palate.

Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm, slightly translucent, and have a clean ocean scent. Avoid shrimp that display dark spots all over or have a strong fishy aroma. Fresh shrimp is always ideal, but thawed frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the noodles from sticking together, add a drizzle of sesame oil before sealing the container. If you can, use them up quickly to enjoy the flavors at their best!

Can I freeze Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein?
Definitely! To freeze, portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back the original taste and texture.

What should I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
Oh no! If you find that your shrimp has turned rubbery, it may be due to overcooking. To avoid this in the future, cook the shrimp until they just turn pink and opaque, which should be around 3 minutes. If you’re already at the eating stage, consider pairing it with a flavorful sauce or broth to enhance the dish’s overall moisture and taste.

Can I customize the vegetables used in the lo mein?
Absolutely! One of the best parts of this Teriyaki Shrimp Lo Mein is its flexibility. Feel free to swap the carrots for bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli according to your preferences. It’s the perfect way to use up any veggies in your fridge—don’t be afraid to get creative!

Is this dish suitable for anyone with seafood allergies?
Absolutely not! For those with seafood allergies or dietary restrictions, you can substitute the shrimp with firm tofu or an assortment of vegetables, which still delivers a delightful flavor and texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through!