This easy honey garlic shrimp recipe is a quick and delicious way to elevate your favorite seafood dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner, this dish combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic and soy sauce for a mouthwatering meal.
Photos of Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, you might need to pick up some lite soy sauce if you don't already have it. This ingredient adds a balanced saltiness to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. Sesame seeds and fresh parsley are optional garnishes that can add a nice touch, but they are not essential to the dish.
Ingredients For Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Canola oil: A neutral oil used for cooking the shrimp.
Shrimp: The main protein for the dish, providing a tender texture and fresh taste.
Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor essential to the sauce.
Honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances the garlic and soy sauce.
Lite soy sauce: Adds a lighter, less salty flavor compared to regular soy sauce.
Sesame seeds: Optional garnish that adds a nutty flavor and slight crunch.
Parsley: Optional garnish for a fresh, herbaceous note.
One reader, Bryon Schindler says:
This easy honey garlic shrimp recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and it takes no time to prepare. The shrimp turns out juicy and delicious every time. A definite keeper for quick weeknight dinners!
Techniques for Perfecting Honey Garlic Shrimp
How to devein shrimp: To devein shrimp, use a small paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick. How to mince garlic: To mince garlic, peel the cloves and use a knife to finely chop them into small pieces. How to whisk: To whisk, use a whisk or fork to mix ingredients together quickly until they are well combined.
How To Make Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp
Sweet and savory, this honey garlic shrimp is a 10-minute dish reminiscent of those Chinese takeout meals. Soy sauce and sesame seeds add texture & flavor.
Serves:
Ingredients
Instructions
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- Add the canola oil to a cast iron skillet or wok on medium high heat.
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- Add in the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side.
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- Remove the shrimp, add in the garlic, cook for 30 seconds.
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- Add in the honey and soy sauce, and whisk together.
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- Cook for 1 minute until reduced and add back in the shrimp to coat before serving.
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- Garnish with parsley and sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition
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- Calories: 214.75kcal
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- Fat: 8.19g
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- Saturated Fat: 0.82g
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- Trans Fat: 0.05g
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- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.64g
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- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.32g
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- Carbohydrates: 19.73g
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- Fiber: 0.19g
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- Sugar: 17.47g
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- Protein: 16.33g
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- Cholesterol: 142.88mg
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- Sodium: 899.37mg
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- Calcium: 70.79mg
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- Potassium: 181.53mg
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- Iron: 0.55mg
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- Vitamin A: 67.59µg
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- Vitamin C: 2.82mg
Technique Tip for Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked and not rubbery, make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding them. This quick sear locks in the juices and gives the shrimp a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Honey Garlic Shrimp
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and chop garlic and parsley ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-peeled shrimp: Opt for pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save time on prep work.
Quick marinade: Combine honey and soy sauce in a bowl beforehand to quickly add to the skillet.
One-pan method: Cook everything in the same cast iron skillet or wok to minimize cleanup.
High heat cooking: Use medium-high heat to cook shrimp faster and reduce overall cooking time.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich flavor and is a healthier fat option.
canola oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can mimic the texture and absorb the flavors well, though it will require a longer cooking time.
shrimp - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based alternative that can absorb the marinade flavors effectively.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan-friendly alternative that offers a similar level of sweetness.
lite soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that has a similar taste to soy sauce.
lite soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos are a soy-free and lower-sodium option that can provide a similar umami flavor.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can provide a similar texture and nutritional benefits.
sesame seeds - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds offer a different but pleasant crunch and are a good nut-free alternative.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, vibrant flavor that can complement the dish well.
parsley - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a sweet and aromatic flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Honey Garlic Shrimp
Use a pristine white plate: The clean, white background will make the vibrant colors of the shrimp and garnishes pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Arrange the shrimp in a fan shape: Place the shrimp in a semi-circle or fan shape, slightly overlapping each piece to create a sense of movement and elegance on the plate.
Drizzle the sauce artistically: Use a small spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle the honey garlic sauce in a zigzag or circular pattern around the shrimp, ensuring each piece is lightly coated and the plate looks artistic.
Add a touch of green: Finely chop parsley and sprinkle it delicately over the shrimp and sauce. This adds a fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
Sprinkle sesame seeds strategically: Lightly scatter sesame seeds over the shrimp and sauce, focusing on areas where they will stand out visually and add a subtle crunch.
Incorporate a side element: Add a small portion of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to the plate, molded into a neat shape using a ring mold. This provides a base for the shrimp and balances the dish.
Finish with a microgreen garnish: Place a small cluster of microgreens or edible flowers on the plate for an extra touch of sophistication and color contrast.
Ensure symmetry and balance: Make sure all elements on the plate are symmetrically arranged and balanced, creating a harmonious and professional presentation that appeals to the eye.
Essential Tools for Making Honey Garlic Shrimp
Cast iron skillet: A heavy-duty pan that retains heat well and ensures even cooking for the shrimp.
Wok: An alternative to the cast iron skillet, ideal for stir-frying due to its high sides and ability to handle high heat.
Whisk: Used to mix the honey and soy sauce together smoothly.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the shrimp and removing them from the skillet or wok.
Garlic press: Useful for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the canola oil, honey, and soy sauce.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for preparing the garlic and parsley.
Chef's knife: A sharp knife for mincing the garlic and chopping the parsley.
Serving dish: For presenting the finished honey garlic shrimp attractively.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the garlic and sauce in the skillet or wok.
Storing and Freezing Honey Garlic Shrimp
Let the honey garlic shrimp cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and affecting the texture of the dish.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Transfer the cooled honey garlic shrimp to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- If using a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- The frozen honey garlic shrimp will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat the frozen shrimp:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the thawed shrimp in a skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
- If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen honey garlic shrimp in the microwave:
- Place the thawed shrimp in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the shrimp from drying out.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
How To Reheat Honey Garlic Shrimp Leftovers
Reheat the honey garlic shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This method helps to preserve the texture of the shrimp and allows the flavors of the honey and garlic to meld together once again.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the leftover honey garlic shrimp in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the shrimp is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shrimp to become rubbery.
If you have leftover rice or noodles, create a delicious stir-fry by reheating the honey garlic shrimp together with the grains in a wok or large skillet. Add a splash of soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor, and toss in some fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and carrots for a complete meal.
Transform your leftover honey garlic shrimp into a tasty salad by serving them chilled over a bed of mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or citrus dressing for a refreshing and healthy lunch option.
For a fun and creative way to enjoy leftover honey garlic shrimp, use them as a topping for nachos or tacos. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet, then serve over crispy tortilla chips or in warm corn tortillas with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapenos.
Interesting Fact About Honey Garlic Shrimp
A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of honey and garlic creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a popular choice in many Asian-inspired dishes.
Is Making Honey Garlic Shrimp at Home Cost-Effective?
This easy honey garlic shrimp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like shrimp, garlic, honey, and soy sauce are relatively affordable and easy to find. With a pound of shrimp costing around $10, and the other ingredients adding up to about $5, the total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $15. Considering the simplicity and deliciousness of the dish, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.
Is This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe Healthy?
The honey garlic shrimp recipe is a tasty dish that offers some nutritional benefits, but it also has room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Garlic provides antioxidants and has potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation
- Honey contains antioxidants and may have antibacterial properties, but it is also high in sugar
- Soy sauce is high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed in excess
- Canola oil is a relatively healthy cooking oil, low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of honey to lower the sugar content, or replace it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace it with coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative
- Increase the amount of garlic for added flavor and potential health benefits
- Serve the shrimp with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables, such as stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy, to boost the overall nutritional value of the meal
- Use a healthier cooking oil, such as extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil, which are high in monounsaturated fats and have additional health benefits
- Opt for wild-caught shrimp, as they tend to have a better nutritional profile and fewer contaminants compared to farm-raised shrimp
Editor's Opinion on This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
This honey garlic shrimp recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The use of canola oil ensures a high smoke point, ideal for achieving a nice sear on the shrimp. The garlic adds a robust aroma, while the honey and soy sauce create a luscious glaze that coats the shrimp beautifully. Garnishing with parsley and sesame seeds not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle crunch and freshness. Overall, it's a simple yet flavorful dish that can be prepared in under 15 minutes.
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Why trust this Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe:
This recipe is a must-try because it combines the perfect balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce to create a mouthwatering glaze for the shrimp. The use of fresh garlic enhances the flavor, making each bite irresistible. Cooking in a cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution, giving the shrimp a perfect sear. The final touch of sesame seeds and parsley adds a delightful crunch and freshness. Trust this recipe for a quick, delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
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