Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. This easy recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice, noodles, or with vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy, ready in under 20 minutes
• Sweet, savory, and garlicky sauce
• Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner
• Pairs well with rice, noodles, or stir-fried veggies
• Made with simple ingredients you likely already have

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or rice vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Lemon wedges

Directions

1. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and grated ginger. Set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they start to turn pink.
3. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the sauce slightly thickens.
4. Optional: Thicken the Sauce:
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce is glossy.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime juice instead of lemon for a fresh flavor.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Include snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli in the skillet.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
• Grilled Shrimp: Marinate shrimp in the sauce and grill them for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them quickly by running under cold water.

2. How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.

3. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, add pre-cooked shrimp to the sauce only for the last minute to warm them through.

4. What sides go well with honey garlic shrimp?

Serve with white or brown rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or rice noodles.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce ahead and cook the shrimp just before serving.

6. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave nectar.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

Let the sauce simmer longer to reduce naturally, or use a bit of flour or arrowroot powder.

8. Can I add other seafood to this recipe?

Yes, scallops or chunks of white fish also work well with the honey garlic sauce.

9. Can I use this sauce for chicken or tofu?

Absolutely! The sauce pairs well with chicken, tofu, or even vegetables for a vegetarian version.

10. How do I store the sauce if I make extra?

Store the sauce separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that you can whip up in minutes. The sweet and savory sauce pairs perfectly with tender shrimp, creating a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Whether served over rice, noodles, or with veggies, this recipe is a go-to for any night of the week!

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