The first time I made honey garlic shrimp, it was an accidental success that quickly became a family favorite. I was trying to recreate a dish I had at a seaside restaurant during a vacation. The balance of sweetness from the honey and the savory depth of the garlic was unforgettable. In my small kitchen, I managed to bring back a piece of that holiday, and ever since, this recipe has been a go-to for quick, delicious dinners that feel special. It’s now a staple in our weeknight rotation, especially on busy days when I crave something both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Shrimp is such a versatile ingredient, and its quick cooking time makes it ideal for speedy meals. Over the years, I’ve adapted this recipe to suit different occasions and dietary needs. Whether you’re in the mood for a light meal served with steamed vegetables and rice, or something heartier paired with a crusty baguette to mop up the sauce, this honey garlic shrimp never disappoints. The marinade is incredibly simple yet flavorful, making it perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence, but you still want to treat yourself to a wholesome, home-cooked meal.
Cooking this dish always brings a sense of satisfaction, as the shrimp turn a beautiful golden color and the kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of honey and garlic caramelizing. My family eagerly gathers around the table, ready to dive into this delectable dish. The best part is the flexibility it offers—you can adjust the sweetness or add a bit of spice to suit your taste. This honey garlic shrimp recipe not only brings the delightful flavors of a seaside vacation into our home but also creates new memories with each meal, making it a cherished part of our culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (I use reduced sodium)
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
optional: 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
1 lb medium uncooked shrimp, peeled & deveined1
2 teaspoons olive oil
optional: chopped green onion for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger (if using). This creates a flavorful marinade that will infuse the shrimp with a perfect blend of sweet and savory notes.
Marinate the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a large resealable plastic bag or a tupperware container. Pour half of the marinade mixture over the shrimp, seal the bag or container, and shake or stir to coat the shrimp evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 8-12 hours for a more intense flavor. Reserve the remaining marinade for later.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet, discarding the used marinade. Cook the shrimp on one side until they turn pink, about 45 seconds. Flip the shrimp over and pour in the reserved marinade. Continue cooking until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, about 1 more minute.
Serve: Transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving dish, and drizzle the remaining cooked marinade sauce over them. Garnish with chopped green onion if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with brown rice and steamed vegetables, allowing the sauce to enhance the entire meal.
Variations and Substitutions:
Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu cubes or a variety of mixed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
Gluten-Free: Ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Low-Carb: Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of brown rice.
conclusion
This honey garlic shrimp recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, creating a dish that appeals to a variety of palates. The harmonious blend of honey and garlic provides a rich, satisfying taste that is both comforting and sophisticated. The quick preparation and cooking time make this recipe ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The marinade, infused with garlic, honey, and a touch of soy sauce, penetrates the shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness and creating a symphony of flavors with each bite.
The versatility of this honey garlic shrimp dish is another highlight, as it can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you prefer it served over a bed of rice, mixed into a fresh salad, or paired with steamed vegetables, this recipe offers endless possibilities. The use of fresh ingredients not only ensures a wholesome and nutritious meal but also elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile. This makes it a perfect choice for those who prioritize health and quality in their meals, without sacrificing taste and enjoyment.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this honey garlic shrimp recipe is sure to impress. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to option for any occasion. The vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it a standout dish, while the ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cooking. Overall, this recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and quick cooking methods can create a truly remarkable dining experience.
Quick & Healthy Dinner 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce reduced sodium
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger Optional
- 1 lb medium uncooked shrimp peeled & deveined
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 chopped green onion for garnish Optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger (if using).
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a resealable plastic bag or container. Pour half of the marinade over the shrimp, seal, and shake to coat evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to 12 hours.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, discarding the used marinade. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 45 seconds per side. Pour in the reserved marinade and cook for another minute until the shrimp are opaque.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with the cooked marinade. Garnish with green onions if desired. Serve with rice and steamed vegetables.
