Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful and quick seafood dish that blends the sweetness of honey with the savory depth of garlic and soy sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant yet effortless dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly simple to prepare yet delivers a gourmet-level flavor. It requires only a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal cooking time. The balance of sweet and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, noodles, or vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a fast dinner solution or a healthy protein-packed meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• honey
• soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
• garlic, minced
• fresh ginger, minced (optional)
• olive oil
• chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
• sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger (if using).
2. Marinate the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a resealable bag or bowl. Pour in half the marinade and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 15 minutes. Reserve the remaining marinade.
3. Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from the marinade and cook them for 1–2 minutes per side, until they are pink and opaque. Discard the used marinade.
4. Add the sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Citrus twist: Add a splash of lime or orange juice to the marinade for a tangy flavor.
• Vegetarian alternative: Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh, adjusting cook time accordingly.
• Grilled version: Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2–3 minutes per side.
• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the shrimp.

FAQs

How long can I marinate the shrimp?

Shrimp should be marinated for no more than 30 minutes to avoid becoming mushy due to the acid in the marinade.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating and cooking.

Is fresh ginger necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds flavor, but the dish is still delicious without it.

Can I bake the shrimp instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes to finish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the marinade and shrimp in advance, but cook it just before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp?

It pairs well with rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just ensure the shrimp are cooked in batches so they sear properly.

Will the sauce thicken naturally?

Yes, the honey helps the sauce thicken slightly when simmered.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but only heat them briefly in the sauce to avoid overcooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a fast, flavorful dish ideal for any day of the week. With minimal ingredients and prep, it offers maximum flavor and flexibility. Whether you’re serving it over rice, veggies, or noodles, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.

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