HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP 10 MINUTE PROTEIN

The way the honey clings to the plump shrimp, glistening under the kitchen light, is a promise of pure deliciousness. It’s sticky-sweet, garlicky perfection, ready in minutes, and begging to be piled high on a bed of fluffy rice.

This isn’t just another quick dinner; it’s a flavor-packed experience that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Get ready for an explosion of sweet and savory that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.

Ingredient Notes

Using high-quality ingredients is key to making this Honey Garlic Shrimp truly shine. Fresh garlic, good honey, and plump shrimp will elevate the dish to restaurant-worthy status. Don’t skimp on the details!

• Shrimp (Large or Jumbo, peeled and deveined): The star of the show! (Larger shrimp hold their shape better and have a satisfying bite)
• Honey (Raw, unfiltered): Adds sweetness and a beautiful glaze. (Raw honey has a richer flavor and potential health benefits)
• Garlic (Freshly minced): Essential for that pungent, savory flavor. (Fresh garlic provides a much stronger and more complex flavor than garlic powder)
• Soy Sauce (Low-sodium): Adds umami and saltiness. (Low-sodium prevents the sauce from becoming overly salty)
• Olive Oil (Extra virgin): For sautéing the garlic and shrimp. (Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps prevent sticking)
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Adds a touch of heat. (Adds a pleasant kick that balances the sweetness)
• Green Onions (For garnish): Adds freshness and visual appeal. (Provides a mild onion flavor and a pop of color)
• Sesame Seeds (For garnish): Adds a nutty flavor and texture. (Toasted sesame seeds offer the best flavor)

Alternative Ingredients

• Shrimp: Chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) or tofu (pressed and cubed) can be used as a substitute.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a sweetener, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Soy Sauce: Tamari (gluten-free) or coconut aminos can be used as alternatives.
• Olive Oil: Avocado oil or vegetable oil can be used for sautéing.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of cayenne pepper can be used instead.

Level Up This Recipe

Want to take your Honey Garlic Shrimp to the next level? Here are a few ideas to elevate the flavors and presentation:

• Add Ginger: Grate a small amount of fresh ginger along with the garlic for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Brown Butter: Brown the butter before adding the garlic for a nutty, rich flavor. Be careful not to burn it!
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Spice it Up: Use a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a deeper, more complex heat.

The Complete Method

This recipe is incredibly easy and quick, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table in minutes. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked Honey Garlic Shrimp in no time!

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear and prevents them from steaming in the pan.

2. Sauté the Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the shrimp will steam instead of sear.

4. Add the Sauce

Pour the honey and soy sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the shrimp evenly.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Serving Ideas

Honey Garlic Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Rice: Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice are all excellent choices.
• Noodles: Lo mein noodles, udon noodles, or even spaghetti work well with the sauce.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple salad are great accompaniments.
• Grains: Quinoa or couscous can be used as a healthy alternative to rice or noodles.

Know someone who loves Honey Garlic Shrimp? Share this recipe with them!

Honey Garlic Shrimp

Amelia Chen-Morrison

This Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe delivers a sticky-sweet and garlicky flavor explosion in just minutes. Plump shrimp are coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying protein-packed meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian-inspired

Servings 2

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon
• Paper towels
• serving plate

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

 

• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
• Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Pour the honey and soy sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
• Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the shrimp evenly.
• Remove the skillet from the heat.
• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Notes

For a richer flavor, brown the butter before adding the garlic. Add a small amount of grated fresh ginger along with the garlic for a warm, aromatic flavor. If the sauce is too watery, increase the heat slightly and cook for a minute or two longer, until it thickens. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.