Mediterranean Shrimp and Cabbage Stir Fry
This Mediterranean Shrimp and Cabbage Stir Fry is a light yet satisfying dish that blends the freshness of vegetables with the bold flavor of Mediterranean spices. Juicy shrimp are quickly stir-fried with tender cabbage garlic tomatoes and a splash of lemon for a meal that’s low-carb high-protein and full of color. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep.
Total Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
4 cups green cabbage thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper thinly sliced
1/2 red onion thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves minced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and season with a pinch of salt pepper oregano and paprika. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables
Cook the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced cabbage red onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften but still have a slight crunch
Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook for 1 to 2 more minutes stirring constantly
Add the Shrimp
Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque
Combine and Finish
Mix the shrimp and vegetables together in the pan. Add lemon juice cumin and a little more salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well and cook for another minute to blend the flavors
Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve on its own or over couscous quinoa or cauliflower rice for a full meal
Tips
Use pre-shredded cabbage to save prep time and keep the recipe quick and easy
Don’t overcook the shrimp — they only need 2 to 3 minutes per side or they’ll turn rubbery
Cut vegetables evenly for consistent texture and even cooking
Use high heat for stir-frying to keep veggies crisp and shrimp seared
Add garlic toward the end to avoid burning and keep its flavor fresh and vibrant
Make it a meal prep dish — the stir fry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days
Variations
Add grains – Serve over couscous quinoa farro or brown rice for extra substance
Go low-carb – Serve with cauliflower rice or eat on its own as a light main dish
Make it spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa
Swap the protein – Use chicken tofu or chickpeas instead of shrimp
Add olives or capers – For a briny Mediterranean twist
Use purple cabbage – For more color and antioxidant boost
Include spinach or kale – Toss in leafy greens during the last minute of cooking for added nutrients
Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp
Yes just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan
How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy
Stir fry over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps the cabbage stay tender-crisp rather than mushy
Can I make this dish ahead of time
Yes it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in a skillet to preserve texture
Can I use red cabbage instead
Absolutely red cabbage works great and adds vibrant color and a slightly different flavor
What other veggies can I add
Zucchini mushrooms spinach or kale all work well. Just adjust cooking times as needed
Nutrition (Approximate per serving based on 4 servings)
Calories: 240
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Sodium: 450mg
Vitamin A: 30 percent DV
Vitamin C: 60 percent DV
Iron: 15 percent DV
Note nutrition may vary based on shrimp size and additional ingredients used
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Shrimp and Cabbage Stir Fry is a flavorful fast and healthy dish that brings together lean protein and fresh vegetables with bold spices and zesty lemon. It’s perfect for busy weeknights meal prep or anyone looking to eat light without sacrificing flavor. With endless customization options and a quick 20-minute cook time this stir fry is sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.