Cashew Shrimp: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Looking for a delicious, high-protein meal that's packed with flavor and easy to prepare? Cashew Shrimp is the perfect dish for any occasion. This hearty and comforting meal blends juicy shrimp with crunchy cashews and a savory sauce, creating a balanced dish that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Why Choose Cashew Shrimp?

• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with protein-rich shrimp, heart-healthy cashews, and antioxidant-rich vegetables, this dish is a wholesome choice.

• High in Protein: Shrimp provides an excellent source of lean protein, making this meal ideal for muscle growth and overall health.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps make this an accessible meal for all skill levels.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and can be reheated, making it a great option for batch cooking.

Ingredients

For the Cashew Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 cup raw cashews

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1/4 cup water or chicken broth

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

2. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked.

3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.

2. Sauté garlic, ginger, onion, and bell peppers for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.

3. Add cashews and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the shrimp to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce.

2. Add water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

4. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, then serve warm with rice or noodles.

Nutrition Breakdown

This dish is not only delicious but also offers a great nutritional profile:

• Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Fats: 15g

• Fiber: 4g

Tips for the Best Cashew Shrimp

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the flavor and texture.

• Roast Cashews for Extra Crunch: Lightly toasting cashews before adding them to the dish brings out their natural sweetness.

• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness to your taste preference.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine rice for a classic combination.

• Garlic noodles for a richer meal.

• A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling.

Conclusion

Cashew Shrimp is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion. With its rich flavors, high protein content, and balanced ingredients, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Try this recipe today and experience a delicious combination of shrimp, crunchy cashews, and savory sauce!