Name: Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp That You'll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp (Opt for large or extra-large shrimp for a satisfying bite.); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Helps to create a deliciously crispy exterior.); 3 tablespoons light soy sauce (Adds depth and umami flavor to the dish.); 2 tablespoons honey (Provides a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.); 3 cloves garlic (Freshly minced garlic gives a fragrant finish.); 1 tablespoon ginger paste or grated ginger (Adds warmth and a slight zing to the flavor profile.); 1 teaspoon chili flakes (Optional for a touch of heat.); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (A neutral oil is best.); 2 tablespoons green onions (Chopped green onions provide a fresh, vibrant touch.)

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The delightful sizzle of shrimp kissing a hot pan always gets my heart racing. With my busy schedule, I've often found myself craving something tasty yet quick—enter this 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you’re too exhausted for takeout but still want something homemade and satisfying. The best part? You can whip this up in less time than it takes to decide on a restaurant. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish not only serves as a delicious weeknight dinner but also makes for an impressive appetizer to share with friends. So, are you ready to add a splash of sweetness and a hint of spice to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why is Honey Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?

Quick Prep Time: In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a dish that feels gourmet but is super easy to make.

Bold, Sweet Flavor: The perfect balance of honey and garlic creates a tantalizing taste that will have you craving more with every bite.

Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice for a complete meal or as a delightful appetizer—you really can’t go wrong!

Crowd-Pleasing Light Meal: This shrimp dish not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses family and friends alike, making it perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.

Healthy Protein Boost: Each serving packs 25g of protein, making it a nutritious choice to fuel your busy lifestyle.

Honey Garlic Shrimp Ingredients

• Perfect for your next meal!

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp – Opt for large or extra-large shrimp for a satisfying bite.
2 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps to create a deliciously crispy exterior.

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons light soy sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor to the dish.
2 tablespoons honey – Provides a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients that makes this honey garlic shrimp stand out.
3 cloves garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives a fragrant finish that elevates the dish.
1 tablespoon ginger paste or grated ginger – Just a hint of ginger adds warmth and a slight zing to the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat that balances the sweetness.

For Cooking

2 tablespoons vegetable oil – A neutral oil is best to allow the other flavors to shine.

For Garnish

2 tablespoons green onions – Chopped green onions provide a fresh, vibrant touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by placing the shrimp in a medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the shrimp and pour in the light soy sauce. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly, then let them sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors and ensures they will have a delightful texture once cooked.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is glistening, introduce the minced garlic and grated ginger into the pan. Sauté these aromatics for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and golden, adding a rich base for your honey garlic shrimp that will tantalize your taste buds.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful pink and are opaque throughout. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices, resulting in tender, juicy shrimp that shine with flavor.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Toss
Drizzle the honey over the cooked shrimp, followed by the optional chili flakes if you desire a touch of heat. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that each shrimp is perfectly coated with the luscious honey garlic sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sliced green onions over the honey garlic shrimp for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the shrimp immediately over a bed of rice or as a standalone appetizer, allowing the flavors to shine. This honey garlic shrimp dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant taste and delightful presentation!

Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Choosing Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they are thawed completely for even cooking.

• Cornstarch Coating: Make sure to coat the shrimp evenly with cornstarch as it helps create a crispy texture, enhancing the overall flavor of your honey garlic shrimp.

• Watch the Heat: Keep your pan at medium heat; too high can burn the garlic. Pay attention during sautéing to avoid any bitter notes.

• Timing is Key: Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking the shrimp. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a beautiful caramelization.

• Customize for Spice: Feel free to adjust the chili flakes to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them for a sweeter dish.

• Enjoy Fresh: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture; the longer the shrimp sit in the sauce, the more they can become soggy.

Honey Garlic Shrimp Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own flair into this dish, transforming it into something uniquely yours!

Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or sambal oelek to the honey for a zesty, fiery flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference, and let that spicy sweetness take center stage!
Citrus Twist: Use lime or lemon juice instead of honey for a refreshing, tangy flavor that brightens up the shrimp. This will add a lovely zing that balances perfectly with the garlic.
Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari for light soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free while maintaining the same savory depth. A simple swap that anyone can enjoy!
Honey Alternative: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweet shift that still tantalizes your taste buds. Each option brings a unique flavor twist!
Veggie Boost: Toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during cooking for added texture and nutrition. They’ll absorb the flavors while adding a colorful crunch to the dish.
Coconut Flavor: Replace vegetable oil with coconut oil for a tropical flair, and pair it with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an exotic twist. This little change can add an exciting tropical vibe!
Sweet and Sour: Mix in some pineapple chunks while cooking for a fruity, sweet-sour combination that really sings. You’ll enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors!
Umami Power: Add a touch of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce to deepen the flavor profile, giving your shrimp that savory punch. The richness will elevate your dish to a new level!

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Shrimp

Bring warmth and flavor to your table with delightful accompaniments that make your meal shine.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice acts as a perfect canvas, soaking up the delightful honey garlic sauce and balancing the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds freshness and a touch of color, providing a healthy contrast to the sweetness of the shrimp.
Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights are perfect for mopping up extra sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience with their comforting flavors.
Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this creamy side adds a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the honey garlic shrimp.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A cool, crunchy salad with a tangy dressing offers a refreshing bite and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Szechuan Noodles: These spicy, savory noodles add a delightful kick and heartiness, making your meal feel worthy of a restaurant experience.
Ginger Lemonade: Serve a chilled glass of homemade ginger lemonade to complement the flavors—its zingy sweetness refreshes the palate perfectly.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a light, airy mousse that satisfies your sweet tooth without feeling too heavy.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Garlic Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftover honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep them juicy and flavorful. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Serving Suggestions: If desired, you can toss the thawed shrimp with fresh veggies or a drizzle of additional honey and soy sauce for a quick meal makeover!

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Garlic Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish even on your busiest nights! You can marinate the shrimp in the soy sauce and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to soak up all the flavors. To maintain quality, keep the shrimp covered to prevent drying out. You can also prepare the garlic and ginger, chopping them the day before, and store them in an airtight container for maximum freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, sauté the aromatics, add your marinated shrimp, and toss in the honey for a meal that’s just as tasty as if it were made fresh!

10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh or frozen shrimp that are large or extra-large for the best bite. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, as this ensures even cooking and a tender texture.

How should I store leftovers of honey garlic shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain the shrimp's moisture and flavor, refrigerate promptly after cooking, and only reheat the portion you plan to eat.

Can I freeze honey garlic shrimp?
Yes! To freeze, first lay the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for about 1 hour until they are firm. After that, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. This method prevents the shrimp from sticking together.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen honey garlic shrimp?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture and flavor. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can turn the shrimp rubbery. It’s all about keeping that juicy texture!

Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Very! Feel free to customize the amount of chili flakes according to your taste preferences. If you're aiming for a less spicy flavor, leave the chili flakes out entirely, and you’ll still have a deliciously sweet and garlicky shrimp dish.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! Ensure your shrimp are fresh to avoid allergy issues. If cooking for someone with shellfish allergies, consider substituting with chicken or tofu; just adjust the cooking times accordingly. I often make variations based on dietary needs, so you can enjoy this dish with everyone.