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Thanksgiving tables are often filled with warm, hearty dishes, but adding a lighter, vibrant option can bring balance to your holiday spread. This Vietnamese-inspired stir-fried garlic green beans and shrimp recipe does just that. Crisp-tender green beans, succulent shrimp, and the bold aroma of garlic come together in a dish that feels both refreshing and indulgent.

The best part? This recipe works double duty. Serve it as a flavorful side dish alongside turkey and stuffing, or double the portion and pair with steamed rice for a satisfying main course later in the week. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that proves seafood has just as much of a place on your Thanksgiving table as any traditional classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• ¾ lb large shrimp, shelled, deveined, and roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
• ¼ cup chicken stock
• 1 tbsp Asian fish sauce (or soy sauce as a substitute)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped, for garnish

Directions for Stir-Fried Garlic Green Beans and Shrimp

1. Blanch the beans:
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 2–3 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
2. Cook the shrimp:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season lightly with pepper, and stir-fry until just pink, about 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the garlic:
   Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it.
4. Combine everything:
   Add the blanched green beans and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock and fish sauce, tossing to coat the beans evenly. Return the shrimp to the pan, stir to combine, and cook another minute until everything is hot and well-coated.
5. Finish and serve:
   Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with cilantro or scallions before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

This Vietnamese-inspired side dish shines on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully will elevate your entire Thanksgiving spread. The crisp-tender beans and savory shrimp balance beautifully with richer dishes, cutting through the heaviness of classics like mashed potatoes or creamy casseroles. Try serving it alongside roasted turkey to add a bright, briny note to the meal, or pair it with buttery lobster stuffing for a seafood-focused feast that feels indulgent yet balanced.

If you’re looking to transform it into a main course, serve the stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice or nutty brown rice to soak up all the garlicky, savory flavors. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the shrimp’s sweetness and the freshness of the beans. If you prefer something festive and non-alcoholic, a sparkling citrus spritzer pairs wonderfully with the dish’s light, aromatic profile.

A Side That Stands Out

Thanksgiving may be rooted in tradition, but it’s also the perfect time to introduce new flavors. This stir-fried garlic green beans and shrimp recipe adds freshness, color, and a subtle touch of international flair to your feast. Light yet satisfying, it’s a recipe that will keep your guests talking—and coming back for seconds!