Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This versatile recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, a tasty appetizer, or even a special occasion meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Honey Garlic Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Honey Garlic Shrimp step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 pound medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Green onion, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine Marinade Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Marinate Shrimp:
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors. If you have more time, you can marinate for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
- Add Marinade:
- Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet with the shrimp. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the Honey Garlic Shrimp with sliced green onions for a fresh and vibrant touch.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Honey Garlic Shrimp hot over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy this sweet and savory dish with your meal!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Shrimp: Medium-sized shrimp work best for this recipe. You can also use large shrimp or prawns, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Ginger: Adjust the amount of ground ginger to your taste. Freshly grated ginger can also be used for a more intense flavor.
- Marinade: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the marinade before cooking.
Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Add Spice:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Lemon Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Add Lemon:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the marinade for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
- Add Vegetables:
- Add 1 cup of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry with the shrimp for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
With Rice or Noodles
- Over Rice:
- Serve over steamed white rice, brown rice, or fried rice for a hearty meal.
- With Noodles:
- Pair with your favorite noodles, such as soba, rice noodles, or lo mein, for a delicious combination.
With Vegetables
- With Stir-Fried Vegetables:
- Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
- With Salad:
- Pair with a fresh green salad or cucumber salad for a lighter option.
Beverages
- With White Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
- With Iced Tea:
- Serve with a glass of iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lime for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure they cook evenly.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Honey Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can marinate the shrimp up to a day in advance and cook them just before serving for the best flavor.
Q: Can I use a different type of protein? A: Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even salmon. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use fresh garlic? A: Yes, freshly minced garlic can be used for a more robust garlic flavor.
Honey Garlic Shrimp is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and savory sauce and tender shrimp, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is quick to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful Honey Garlic Shrimp with your family and friends!
