This Glazed Honey Garlic Shrimp is a treat! Sweet honey and savory garlic create a yummy sauce that coats tender shrimp perfectly. It’s easy to make and quick to cook!
I love how this dish comes together in just a few minutes. Serve it over rice or noodles for a meal that’s sure to impress—believe me, you’ll want to make it again! 🍤✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are key for this dish, but you can use medium shrimp or even shrimp with the tails removed for easier eating. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try firm tofu, cut into cubes and marinated.
Honey: This adds sweet flavor, but you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different twist. If you’re looking for less sugar, consider using a sugar-free honey alternative.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. If sodium is a concern, low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice, or you can opt for coconut aminos, which are naturally lower in sodium and have a slightly sweeter flavor.
Rice Vinegar: This can be replaced with apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice. I often prefer lemon juice for a fresh zing!
How Do I Make Sure the Shrimp Don’t Overcook?
Cooking shrimp is quick, so timing is everything. First, make sure they are dry by patting them with paper towels. This helps them sear and not steam. When cooking, keep an eye on their color—they turn from gray to pink when done.
- Cook the shrimp for only 2 minutes on one side, then flip for another minute until they are just opaque.
- Remove them slightly before they’re fully cooked. They will continue to cook when you add them back to the glaze.
- Remember, shrimp cook very quickly, so stay close to the pan!
With these simple steps and ingredient notes, you’ll have perfectly glazed honey garlic shrimp every time!
How to Make Glazed Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes. A quick weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is important because it will help them sear properly instead of steaming. Set them aside for a moment.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes until they start to turn pink. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another minute, or until mostly cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn—this can happen quickly!
4. Add the Sauces:
Now, it’s time to add the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar (or lemon juice). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow it to thicken slightly into a lovely glaze. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes here.
5. Combine the Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the glaze. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the shrimp are well-coated and fully cooked through.
6. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the shrimp and give everything a gentle stir. Serve the glazed honey garlic shrimp over a bed of cooked white rice and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Add lemon slices on the side for an extra burst of flavor if you like!
Now, enjoy this delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s bursting with flavor! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home any night of the week. 🍤😊
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to quickly thaw them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want an extra kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha or chili sauce to the glaze. Another option is to use a dash of cayenne pepper.
What Should I Serve with Glazed Honey Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs perfectly with cooked white rice, but you can also serve it over noodles or alongside steamed vegetables for a lighter meal. For a lower-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep them moist.