Introduction
Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors? That’s exactly what garlic and honey shrimp brings to the table! This dish is not just a crowd-pleaser but also a quick and easy meal you can whip up in under 20 minutes. Imagine juicy, tender shrimp coated in a glossy, garlicky honey sauce—pure magic on a plate!
But what makes this honey shrimp recipe so special? It’s all about simple ingredients that pack a punch. The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of spice creates an irresistible glaze that clings to every bite. Plus, it’s a healthy alternative to fried seafood dishes, making it an excellent choice for a light yet flavorful dinner.
Let’s dive into the ultimate honey garlic shrimp recipe, covering everything from ingredients and preparation to expert tips and serving suggestions.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This honey garlic shrimp recipe
This honey garlic shrimp recipe is an absolute winner for so many reasons:
✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Healthy: A great source of protein with natural sweetness from honey.
✔ Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of kitchen staples.
✔ Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad.
✔ Kid-Friendly: A mild yet flavorful dish that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious honey shrimp recipe, you’ll need:
For the Shrimp: honey garlic shrimp recipe
- 1 lb shrimp 🦐 (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce: honey garlic shrimp
- ⅓ cup honey 🍯
- ¼ cup soy sauce 🥢
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) 🧄
- 1 tsp ginger (grated) 🌿
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them get a better sear.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well to combine all flavors.
3. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Simmer the Sauce
- Pour the prepared sauce into the pan.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine & Serve
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
Enjoy your garlic and honey shrimp with rice or steamed vegetables!
Garlic and Honey Shrimp: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined large or jumbo size recommended
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- to taste salt and black pepper
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium recommended
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
For Garnish
- sesame seeds optional
- chopped green onions for freshness
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce into the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with rice or vegetables.
Video
Notes
Best Type of Shrimp to Use
- For the best results, use:
- ✔ Large or Jumbo shrimp – They stay juicy and don’t overcook easily.
- ✔ Fresh or frozen shrimp – If using frozen, thaw them in cold water first.
- ✔ Peeled and deveined shrimp – Saves time and effort.
How to Make the Perfect Honey Garlic Sauce
- A great sauce makes all the difference! Here’s the secret:
- ✔ Balance sweetness & saltiness – The honey and soy sauce ratio is key.
- ✔ Use fresh garlic & ginger – They add an authentic, bold flavor.
- ✔ Let it reduce – Simmering thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
Cooking Tips for Juicy honey garlic shrimp recipe
- Don’t overcook! Shrimp only need 1-2 minutes per side.
- Use a hot pan to get that perfect sear.
- Cook in batches if necessary—overcrowding leads to steaming, not searing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your honey garlic shrimp with:
- 🥢 Steamed rice – The sauce soaks into the grains perfectly.
- 🥦 Stir-fried vegetables – A crunchy contrast to the tender shrimp.
- 🍜 Noodles – Toss the shrimp with cooked lo mein or spaghetti.
Variations and Additions
Want to customize your honey shrimp recipe? Try these ideas:
- 🔥 Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp – Add extra red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
- 🍊 Citrus Twist – Swap lemon juice with orange juice for a fruity touch.
- 🥦 Veggie Boost – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for crunch.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Warm in a pan over low heat for a few minutes.
- Add a splash of water to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
Health Benefits of Garlic and Honey Shrimp
- 💪 Rich in Protein – Helps build muscle and keeps you full.
- 🦷 Garlic’s Benefits – Known for its immune-boosting properties.
- 🍯 Honey’s Antioxidants – Supports heart health and digestion.
Pairing Ideas – Best Side Dishes
- Want to make it a complete meal? Try these sides:
- 🥗 Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing contrast to the sweet sauce.
- 🥔 Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and flavorful.
- 🍲 Miso Soup – A light and warming starter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
2. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
3. What can I use instead of honey?
4. Can I grill the shrimp instead?
5. How do I thicken the sauce?
Oven Baked Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Healthy, and Easy to Make
This honey garlic shrimp recipe is a surefire hit for a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal. Whether for a cozy dinner or meal prep, it’s bound to become a favorite! 🍤✨
Garlic and Honey Shrimp