The aroma of sizzling shrimp dancing in a sticky-sweet honey garlic sauce is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This dish is the perfect blend of sweet and savory that makes your taste buds do a happy little jig. Picture this: juicy shrimp glistening with a luscious glaze while you savor the anticipation of that first bite.
Every time I whip up this honey garlic shrimp, I can’t help but remember the time my friends came over for dinner, thinking they were just getting regular old shrimp. Their jaws dropped when they tasted the explosion of flavors. Let’s just say there weren’t any leftovers!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This honey garlic shrimp is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that will impress anyone
- Its vibrant colors and glossy finish make it a feast for the eyes as well
- You can serve it over rice or toss it in salads for added versatility
- Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!
I once made this dish for my family during a casual Sunday dinner, and they declared it their new favorite meal!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture; fresh or frozen works well.
- Honey: Choose pure honey for sweetness; it adds that delightful sticky glaze everyone loves.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings robust flavor; don’t skimp on it—go for at least 3-4 cloves.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while adding depth to the dish.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil ensures everything cooks perfectly without sticking.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor profile and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a lovely color and freshness as a garnish.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide crunch and nutty notes; sprinkle them generously!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients like a culinary superhero ready to save dinner time. Peel and devein your shrimp if needed; it’s like giving them a mini spa treatment.
Create Your Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice until combined. The mixture should be thick yet silky—like liquid gold.
Heat It Up!: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering. The moment you see that glimmer is when you know you’re ready to sauté.
Add the Shrimp: Toss in your prepared shrimp into the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side—flipping them gently with a spatula so they don’t get too clingy.
Pour on the Sauce!: Once your shrimp are nearly done cooking, pour your delicious sauce over them. Let it simmer for another minute or so until everything is coated in that shiny glaze.
Garnish & Serve!: Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top before serving. The vibrant colors will make even your dinner guests swoon!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your sweet and savory adventure with this amazing honey garlic shrimp!
You Must Know
- Honey garlic shrimp is not only delicious but incredibly quick to prepare
- The blend of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that can impress anyone at your dinner table
- Plus, it’s great for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the shrimp in honey and garlic while you heat the pan. Sear the shrimp until golden brown, then toss in any remaining marinade for added flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like chicken or tofu. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in some veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When cooking shrimp, ensure they’re completely thawed before marinating; this allows the flavors to penetrate better
- Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor, and don’t crowd the pan to achieve that perfect sear!
It’s funny how one meal can instantly transport you back to a sunny summer evening with friends. Our first attempt at honey garlic shrimp turned into an impromptu cook-off with my best friend, resulting in laughter and a kitchen filled with sweet aromas.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for honey garlic shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp?
Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How long does it take to cook shrimp?
Shrimp typically cooks within 3-5 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Honey garlic shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that features succulent shrimp coated in a sticky-sweet glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/4 cup pure honey
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- If necessary, peel and devein the shrimp.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Pour the sauce over the shrimp and let simmer for an additional minute until well-coated.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
