20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe for Quick and Flavorful Meals

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a go-to dish for anyone seeking a quick meal packed with flavor. This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings when you need something simple yet satisfying. With its sweet and savory profile, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen routine.

One reason you’ll enjoy this recipe is its ease of preparation. This honey garlic shrimp is wonderfully simple and quick to cook, perfect for busy weeknights. The straightforward steps and minimal ingredients ensure you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor.

Another highlight is the health benefits it offers. Packed with lean protein from shrimp and nutrients from garlic and honey, this dish supports heart health and boosts immunity. It is low in calories yet rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nourishing option for wellness-conscious eaters.

This recipe also shines in its versatility. Adapt this recipe easily for different dietary preferences, such as using tamari for soy sauce if you’re gluten-free. Whether you’re following a paleo lifestyle or just want to tweak the flavors, substitutions keep the dish suitable for varying needs.

Finally, the distinctive flavor profile is what truly sets it apart. The unique blend of sweet honey and aromatic garlic creates a bold and memorable taste. This honey garlic shrimp stands out with its balanced savory-sweet profile and a hint of zest from optional additions like ginger.

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Essential Ingredients for Honey Garlic Shrimp

To make this Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe, you’ll need a few key items that blend together for a tasty result. Start by gathering everything before you begin cooking to keep things smooth and fun in the kitchen. This section lists all the ingredients with exact measurements for clear guidance.

  • 1/3 cup honey – Adds natural sweetness to the dish.
  • 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce – Brings umami and depth of flavor.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon jarred minced garlic) – Provides robust taste and health benefits.
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger – Offers a zesty kick if you want extra spice.
  • 1 lb (approximately 450 grams) medium uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails optional) – Serves as the main lean protein.
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil – Used for cooking to add healthy fats and prevent sticking.
  • Optional garnish: chopped green onion – Adds a fresh finish to the plate.

In addition to these core ingredients, consider special dietary options. For a vegan twist, swap shrimp with marinated tofu. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For low-calorie versions, reduce the honey or choose a sugar-free alternative.

Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Honey 1/3 cup Sweetens and glazes the shrimp
Reduced sodium soy sauce 1/4 cup Enhances savory flavor
Garlic, minced 2 cloves or 1 tsp jarred Adds aromatic depth
Fresh ginger, minced (optional) 1 tsp Provides extra zest
Medium uncooked shrimp 1 lb (450 grams) Main protein source
Olive oil 2 tsp For cooking and flavor
Chopped green onion (optional) As needed for garnish Fresh topping

This recipe serves four and takes about 20 minutes total, including marinating and cooking time, making it a healthy, flavorful dinner option that pairs well with brown rice and steamed vegetables.

Explore more seafood recipes like our creamy crab and shrimp bisque for additional ideas.

How to Prepare the Perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide

Making Honey Garlic Shrimp is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s full of flavor and easy to master. For the best results, check out similar easy recipes like our sticky honey garlic sausage pasta for inspiration.

First, prepare all ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and ginger. This helps everything go smoothly once you start cooking. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl to create the marinade.

Next, use half of this mixture to marinate the shrimp and reserve the other half for cooking. Place the shrimp in a large sealable container or bag, add half the marinade, and toss to coat for even flavor. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes and up to 8 to 12 hours to deepen the taste.

Then, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to get it nice and hot. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet, discarding the used marinade to avoid any excess liquid. Cook until pink on one side, about 45 seconds, then flip for even cooking.

After that, pour in the reserved marinade and cook until the shrimp are done, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates a glossy sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly. Finally, remove from heat and serve immediately with the sauce, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Adjustment notes include using tamari for gluten-free options or reducing honey for a low-calorie version. It pairs well with brown rice and steamed vegetables, as noted in the recipe summary.


Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey Garlic Shrimp can be tailored to fit various diets with simple swaps. This flexibility makes it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Let’s look at some easy changes to try.

For protein and main component alternatives, swap shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or seitan for plant-based options. Use scallops or chicken breast as alternative proteins based on preference, remembering to adjust cooking times. For pescatarians, try firm white fish fillets cooked in a similar way.

When it comes to vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, substitute broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra vegetables to boost nutrition. Use coconut aminos or liquid aminos as soy sauce alternatives for gluten-free diets. Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to vary flavor profiles, and incorporate ginger or chili flakes to customize heat and aroma.

These substitutions allow tailoring the honey garlic shrimp recipe to meet dietary needs, seasonal produce availability, and flavor preferences. This keeps the dish balanced and enjoyable no matter your choices.

Mastering Honey Garlic Shrimp: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your Honey Garlic Shrimp to the next level. These tips can make your cooking feel more professional and fun. Let’s dive into some ways to enhance this recipe.

Pro Cooking Techniques

Marinate shrimp briefly in honey, garlic, and soy sauce before cooking to deepen flavors and make each bite pop. Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and better searing, which gives the shrimp a nice golden edge.

Flavor Variations

Experiment by adding fresh ginger, chili paste, or substituting honey with maple syrup for a unique twist that keeps things exciting. These changes can turn a simple dinner into something special without much effort.

Presentation Tips

Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or freshly chopped parsley to enhance visual appeal and make your plate look inviting. This adds a professional touch that impresses family and friends.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare the sauce mixture ahead of time and store it separately for quick meals later. Keep shrimp chilled until ready to cook, which is ideal for meal prepping on busy days. Incorporating these expert tips elevates your honey garlic shrimp, making it restaurant-quality and customizable for diverse palates and occasions.

How to Store Honey Garlic Shrimp: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Honey Garlic Shrimp fresh and tasty for later. Follow these guidelines to enjoy leftovers without losing quality. It’s all about keeping things safe and simple.

Store cooked honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For long-term storage, place cooked shrimp in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air so it can last up to 2 months frozen while preserving taste.

When reheating, gently warm shrimp on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture. Consider meal prep by separating shrimp from sauces when storing to retain texture, combining just before serving. Using these proper storage methods ensures your honey garlic shrimp remains delicious and safe to eat, saving time on future meals.

Honey Garlic Shrimp

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Shrimp

Can I substitute chicken for shrimp in a honey garlic shrimp recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for shrimp using the same honey garlic marinade. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Cook the chicken thoroughly, usually for 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (74Β°C). The marinade provides a similar sweet and savory flavor profile, making it a versatile option for those who prefer poultry over seafood.

What’s the best way to cook honey garlic shrimpβ€”grilling or skillet?

Both grilling and skillet cooking work well for honey garlic shrimp. Skillet cooking allows for quicker preparation and more control over the sauce consistency. Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add the shrimp, and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. For grilling, thread the shrimp onto skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates, and grill on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. Cooking times are short to keep the shrimp tender and prevent overcooking.

How do I prevent honey garlic shrimp from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, ensure your skillet is well-heated before adding the shrimp and use a small amount of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or avocado oil. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels before cooking to reduce moisture, which can cause sticking. Avoid moving the shrimp too soon; let them sear for 2-3 minutes on one side to develop a natural release before flipping.

Can I make honey garlic shrimp ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare honey garlic shrimp in advance, but it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving for optimal texture. If prepping ahead, store cooked shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking, or warm in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

What side dishes pair well with honey garlic shrimp?

Honey garlic shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Stir-fried or roasted vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers add texture and nutrition. For a light option, serve it over mixed greens or alongside a crisp cucumber salad. These pairings complement the sweet and savory notes of the dish without overpowering it.

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Honey Garlic Shrimp


  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

🍀 Quick and easy to prepare, this honey garlic shrimp recipe brings bold flavors to your dinner table in just 20 minutes.
🍯 The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal.


Ingredients

– 1/3 cup honey Sweetens and glazes the shrimp

– 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce Enhances savory flavor

– 2 cloves or 1 tsp jarred garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth

– 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced Provides extra zest

– 1 lb (450 grams) medium uncooked shrimp Main protein source

– 2 tsp olive oil For cooking and flavor

– As needed chopped green onion Fresh topping


Instructions

1-First, prepare all ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and ginger. This helps everything go smoothly once you start cooking. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl to create the marinade.

2-Next, use half of this mixture to marinate the shrimp and reserve the other half for cooking. Place the shrimp in a large sealable container or bag, add half the marinade, and toss to coat for even flavor. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes and up to 8 to 12 hours to deepen the taste.

3-Then, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to get it nice and hot. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet, discarding the used marinade to avoid any excess liquid. Cook until pink on one side, about 45 seconds, then flip for even cooking.

4-After that, pour in the reserved marinade and cook until the shrimp are done, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates a glossy sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly. Finally, remove from heat and serve immediately with the sauce, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

⏰ Marinate shrimp for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor but avoid over-marinating which can affect texture.
🌿 Fresh ginger adds a bright, zesty flavor; you can omit if you prefer a milder taste.
πŸ₯— Pair this shrimp with steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced and healthy meal.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Marinating time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: SautΓ©ing
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg

Keywords: Honey garlic shrimp, Quick shrimp recipe, Flavorful shrimp, 20 minute dinner

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