Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is a flavorful, tropical-inspired dish that brings together sweet pineapple, tender shrimp, and savory fried rice in one easy skillet meal. It’s colorful, satisfying, and ideal for quick weeknight dinners or festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with cooked rice and fresh ingredients.
• Balanced flavors: Sweet pineapple, savory shrimp, and umami-rich sauce.
• One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup with maximum taste and nutrition.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked rice (day-old preferred for best texture)
• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Fresh pineapple chunks (or well-drained canned pineapple in juice)
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Green onions, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Eggs (optional)
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Sesame oil
• Neutral cooking oil (canola or vegetable)
• Optional: peas, chili flakes, cilantro, cashews

directions

this recipe

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook 2–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. (Optional) Scramble eggs in the same skillet, then remove and set aside.
4. Add more oil if needed, then sauté bell pepper, garlic, and ginger for 2–3 minutes.
5. Stir in rice, breaking up clumps. Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.
6. Add pineapple, shrimp, and eggs (if using). Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
7. Cook another 1–2 minutes, tossing to combine.
8. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, or chopped cashews. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Vegetarian version: Use tofu or omit shrimp entirely.
• Nutty crunch: Sprinkle with cashews or peanuts before serving.
• Tropical presentation: Serve in a hollowed-out pineapple shell.
• Low-carb option: Swap part of the rice with cauliflower rice.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate.

FAQs

What kind of rice is best?

Day-old, cold rice (white or jasmine) works best to avoid mushiness.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is canned pineapple okay?

Yes—use pineapple in juice (not syrup) and drain well.

How do I avoid overcooked shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque, then remove from heat immediately.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—try peas, carrots, zucchini, or snap peas.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, brown rice adds extra fiber and works well in this recipe.

What protein can I use instead of shrimp?

Try chicken, tofu, or diced ham.

Should I include eggs?

Optional—scrambled eggs add protein and richness.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prep ingredients in advance, but it’s best cooked fresh for ideal texture.

Conclusion

Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is a sweet and savory stir-fry that brings big flavor with minimal effort. It’s customizable, quick to prepare, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make it once and it’s bound to become a go-to favorite for easy dinners with a tropical twist.

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