Hey there shrimp lovers! Today we’re diving into the world of honey garlic shrimp, a dish that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory with a touch of garlicky goodness that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Honey garlic shrimp has its roots in Asian cuisine, but it’s become a popular dish all around the world. It’s no wonder why the combination of juicy shrimp, sticky-sweet honey and aromatic garlic is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s quick to make which is perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.
Before we get cooking let’s gather our ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 pound of shrimp
- 4 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons of olive oil
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger (optional)
- Butter (optional)
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a zip-lock bag, mix the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger (if using).
- Add the shrimp to the bag, seal it, and gently massage to coat the shrimp with the marinade.
- Let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using butter, add it now.
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade (but keep the marinade!) and cook them in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the shrimp and let the sauce thicken a bit.
- Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle with Red Pepper Flakes if you’re using them and chopped green onions if you like.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious honey garlic shrimp!
Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Zip-lock bag
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound of shrimp
- 4 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 teaspoons of olive oil
- Green onions for garnish optional
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger optional
- Butter optional
- Red Pepper Flakes optional
Instructions
- In a zip-lock bag, mix the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger (if using).
- Add the shrimp to the bag, seal it, and gently massage to coat the shrimp with the marinade.
- Let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using butter, add it now.
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade (but keep the marinade!) and cook them in the skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the shrimp and let the sauce thicken a bit.
- Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle with Red Pepper Flakes if you’re using them and chopped green onions if you like.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious honey garlic shrimp!
Notes
-Serve over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
-If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw completely before marinating.
-For best results, use large or jumbo shrimp.
Recipe Tips and Notes
- The zip-lock bag trick is a game changer! It ensures even coating and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Using low sodium soy sauce helps keep the salt levels in check while still giving you that umami flavor.
- Don’t overcook those shrimp – they’ll turn rubbery. As soon as they’re pink and curled, they’re done :)!
Choosing the Right Shrimp: Peeled, Deveined, or Unpeeled
Choosing shrimp can be confusing, but don’t worry! For this recipe peeled and deveined shrimp work best. They’re easier to eat and soak up the marinade better. If you’re feeling adventurous, unpeeled shrimp can add extra flavor, but they’re messier to eat.
Using Frozen vs. Fresh Shrimp
Both frozen and fresh shrimp work great in this recipe. If you’re using frozen, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Pro tip: frozen shrimp are often fresher than “fresh” shrimp at the seafood counter, as they’re frozen right after catching.
Adjusting the Sauce Flavors
Feel free to play around with the sauce! Like it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes. Want more tang? A squeeze of lemon juice works wonders. The recipe is flexible so make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Honey garlic shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. For a healthier option try it over a bed of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. It also makes a great appetizer, just stick a toothpick in each shrimp and watch them disappear at your next party!
Nutritional Information
While I can’t provide exact numbers, honey garlic shrimp is generally a protein rich dish. The honey adds some natural sugars, and using low sodium soy sauce helps keep the sodium content in check. It’s a relatively light meal, especially when paired with vegetables.
Storage and Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house for sure!) store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different twist.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different kind of sweetness.
- Add some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to make it a complete meal.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making food you love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with this honey garlic shrimp recipe and make it your own. Happy cooking!
