Name: Honey Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Shrimp; ½ teaspoon Salt; ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; ½ cup Honey; ¼ cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce; 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil; 3 teaspoons Minced Garlic; 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and that’s exactly what you get with Honey Garlic Shrimp. This dish came about on a particularly busy weeknight when I found myself craving something that’s both quick and flavorful. I wanted a meal that could transport me to a cozy kitchen, filled with the rich aromas of garlic and honey simmering together. With just a few simple ingredients, I was able to whip up a dish that not only satisfied my hunger but also brought a smile to my face. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. When I first served Honey Garlic Shrimp to my family, the look on their faces told me I had struck gold. It quickly became a favorite, requested again and again. Now, it’s not just a quick meal, but a cherished recipe that reminds us of those cozy evenings together, enjoying good food and great company.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Vegan

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Saucepan, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl

Why We Love This Honey Garlic Shrimp

It’s Incredibly Flavorful

One of the standout features of Honey Garlic Shrimp is the incredible flavor combination. The sweetness of the honey perfectly complements the savory notes of the garlic, creating a delightful balance that dances on your palate. It’s a flavor explosion that you won’t forget.

Quick and Easy to Make

This dish can be whipped up in no time at all. With minimal prep and cooking time, Honey Garlic Shrimp is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a meal ready in a flash. You can have dinner on the table within thirty minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy families.

Kid-Friendly

Looking for a dish that your kids will actually love? Look no further! The sweet glaze of honey and the juicy shrimp make this dish appealing to even the pickiest eaters. It’s the perfect way to introduce shrimp to your children without overwhelming their taste buds.

Great for Meal Prep

Another reason to love Honey Garlic Shrimp is that it’s an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily make a batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just pair it with some rice or steamed veggies, and you’ve got a balanced meal ready to go!

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients required for this dish are common staples that you likely already have in your pantry. This makes it easy to throw together on a whim without needing a specific trip to the grocery store.

Excellent for Entertaining

Hosting friends or family? Honey Garlic Shrimp is an impressive yet easy dish to serve. It looks beautiful on the plate and tastes gourmet, making you the star of your gathering without the stress of complicated recipes.

What You’ll Need for Honey Garlic Shrimp

The beauty of Honey Garlic Shrimp lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavors that blend beautifully together. The combination of fresh shrimp with honey creates a sweet and savory experience that’s hard to resist, while the garlic adds a depth that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Shrimp: The star of the dish. Fresh or frozen, shrimp is quick-cooking and packed with protein.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and balances the sweetness of the honey.
Black Pepper: Adds a slight kick and depth to the dish.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp, providing a lovely richness.
Honey: The key ingredient that gives the dish its name and a sweet glaze.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness without overwhelming the dish.
Sesame Oil: Offers a nutty aroma that complements the flavors beautifully.
Minced Garlic: Essential for the savory component of the dish.
Fresh Ginger: Adds a hint of warmth and spiciness that enhances the overall flavor.

How to Cook Honey Garlic Shrimp

Cooking Honey Garlic Shrimp is as enjoyable as it is simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor in no time. Each step is a key part of the process, so pay attention to the details!

Start by preparing the shrimp. Remove the shells and veins from 1 lb shrimp. This is a crucial step as it ensures that the shrimp are clean and ready to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Next, season the shrimp with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Make sure to coat each shrimp evenly to enhance their natural taste.
For the marinade, mix the sauce ingredients in a measuring cup or bowl: combine ½ cup honey, ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 3 teaspoons minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger. Stir until well blended.
Place the shrimp into a ziploc bag or a bowl, then pour the marinade over them. Stir to coat thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate for about 30 minutes in the fridge. This step is essential as it infuses the shrimp with amazing flavor.
After marinating, heat up 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sear the shrimp, but not smoking.
Using cooking tongs, remove the shrimp from the marinade and carefully place them in the hot pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. This cooking time is crucial for the perfect texture—don’t overcook them!
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them onto a plate. In the same pan, add the remaining marinade. Bring it to a gentle simmer. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and add it to the sauce. This will help it thicken.
Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking. Keep an eye on it, as you don’t want it to burn.
Lastly, you can either serve the sauce over the shrimp or toss the shrimp back into the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Either way, you’ll end up with a deliciously sticky, sweet, and savory dish.

Things Worth Knowing

Freshness Matters: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work, but make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Marination Time: Don’t rush the marinating process. Allowing the shrimp to sit in the marinade enhances their flavor significantly.
Cooking Temperature: Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the shrimp. This will help to sear them, locking in moisture and flavor.
Adjusting the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by modifying the amounts of honey or soy sauce according to your taste.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to get creative with Honey Garlic Shrimp, here are some fun ideas to switch things up!

Add Vegetables: Toss in some colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
Spice It Up: For a kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Use Different Proteins: Try substituting shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist while keeping the same flavor profile.
Rice Variations: Serve over brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Herbs for Freshness: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a refreshing finish.

Serving Ideas for Honey Garlic Shrimp

When it comes to serving Honey Garlic Shrimp, the possibilities are endless! Here’s how you can elevate your meal experience:

Over Rice: Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making it a comforting dish.
With Noodles: Pair it with rice noodles or soba for a delightful Asian-inspired meal.
On a Salad: Toss the shrimp onto a fresh salad for a healthy option, complete with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette.
As Appetizers: Serve them as bite-sized appetizers for parties. Skewer them on toothpicks for easy serving.
For Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch and divide into meal prep containers. Add steamed vegetables for a balanced lunch throughout the week.
Garnish With Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or sliced green onions on top adds a pop of color and flavor.
Pair With Light Drinks: Serve with iced tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance the sweetness of the shrimp.

FAQ

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, follow the same preparation steps as you would with fresh shrimp for delicious results.

To store leftovers, place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat them again, simply reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist as they heat.

Honey Garlic Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also add a fresh salad or some sautéed vegetables on the side for extra nutrition. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an added touch!

This dish is not inherently spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. This way, you can customize the level of heat without compromising the delicious sweet and savory flavor balance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honey Garlic Shrimp is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful burst of flavors that you can whip up any night of the week. With its perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes, it’s bound to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give it a try tonight; you won’t be disappointed!