This honey garlic shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a touch of tangy. The tender shrimp are seared and glazed with a bold honey-garlic-soy sauce, creating a flavor-packed dish that comes together in minutes. Paired with steamed broccoli and served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious yet simple. The toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions add a satisfying crunch and burst of freshness that elevate every bite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 tablespoons honey
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
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2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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2 green onions, sliced
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Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, or until they start to turn pink.
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Pour in the honey garlic sauce and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
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If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.
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Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
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Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
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Serve over hot jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Story Behind Honey Garlic Shrimp
Honey Garlic Shrimp is a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Originating from Asian-inspired cuisine, this recipe has become a global favorite thanks to its simplicity, bold taste, and quick prep time. Traditionally served with steamed rice and vegetables, it’s a go-to for home cooks looking for a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on nutrition or flavor.
The combination of honey and garlic is a time-tested duo that enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp while giving it a punchy, aromatic backbone. Soy sauce adds depth and umami, and a splash of rice vinegar brightens the dish, preventing it from becoming overly sweet. The shrimp soak up the sauce beautifully, making every bite a delightful blend of caramelized edges and juicy tenderness.
Why This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe Stands Out
There are plenty of shrimp recipes out there, but this one stands out for its speed, flavor complexity, and versatility. It’s not just another stir-fry—it’s a five-star meal in under 30 minutes. What sets it apart is the minimal ingredient list with maximum impact. You’re not dealing with exotic or hard-to-find ingredients; just basic pantry staples that, when combined, deliver restaurant-quality results.
Another benefit is its adaptability. Whether you’re cooking for two or a whole family, the recipe scales effortlessly. Want to keep it low-carb? Serve it over cauliflower rice or zoodles. Craving more veggies? Add bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots to the stir fry. It’s a foundation recipe that’s endlessly customizable.
Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent source of lean protein, making it ideal for those watching their macros or trying to maintain muscle mass. A 3-ounce serving of shrimp contains about 20 grams of protein and is low in calories and fat.
In addition to protein, shrimp is rich in iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for thyroid function, metabolism, and maintaining a healthy nervous system. It’s also a good source of antioxidants like astaxanthin, which helps reduce inflammation and promote heart and brain health.
For those concerned about cholesterol, it’s worth noting that although shrimp contains dietary cholesterol, it has minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people. This makes it a heart-healthy option when eaten in moderation and prepared without heavy oils or butters.
Perfect for Meal Prepping and Busy Weeknights
One of the greatest strengths of this honey garlic shrimp recipe is how well it fits into a busy lifestyle. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the sauce in advance or even marinate the shrimp the night before. When you’re ready to cook, the whole dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare—less time than it takes to order takeout.
This dish also keeps well in the refrigerator, making it a smart choice for meal prepping. Store it in airtight containers along with a side of jasmine rice and steamed veggies for quick, grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining both its texture and taste.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Shrimp
Cooking shrimp may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple once you know what to look for. The key is not to overcook them. Shrimp cook very quickly—usually in about 2–3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl. If they curl too tightly or start to shrink, they’ve likely been overcooked and may become rubbery.
Using high heat helps sear the outside quickly while keeping the interior juicy. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp, and avoid overcrowding the pan to get that perfect golden crust.
How to Customize the Dish
The beauty of honey garlic shrimp lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations and add-ons to try:
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Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicier kick.
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Citrus twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice to brighten the flavors.
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Veggie boost: Toss in some bell peppers, sugar snap peas, or baby corn for more texture and nutrition.
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Grain swaps: Try serving the shrimp over quinoa, couscous, or rice noodles for a different base.
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Low-carb option: Substitute jasmine rice with cauliflower rice or sautéed zucchini ribbons.
Pairing Suggestions
Honey garlic shrimp is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to turn it into a feast, it pairs beautifully with other sides:
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Cucumber salad: A light, refreshing salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil balances the richness of the shrimp.
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Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso makes an excellent starter.
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Steamed dumplings: For a more indulgent dinner, serve shrimp alongside veggie or chicken dumplings.
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Chilled green tea or sake: For beverages, a glass of iced green tea or a chilled sake complements the dish’s Asian profile.
Sustainability and Shrimp Sourcing
When buying shrimp, opt for sustainably sourced varieties when possible. Look for labels like “Best Aquaculture Practices” or check resources like the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch list for guidance. Wild-caught shrimp from the U.S. or responsibly farmed shrimp from certified sources are generally good choices.
Choosing sustainable shrimp not only ensures better quality and taste but also supports ethical and eco-conscious fishing practices that protect ocean life and reduce environmental impact.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping weekday lunches, or looking to impress someone special with your cooking skills, this honey garlic shrimp recipe delivers. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for any occasion. The sweet-savory sauce makes it universally appealing, and the ease of preparation makes it a keeper in your regular meal rotation. This recipe isn’t just about food—it’s about creating a moment. The sizzle of shrimp hitting the hot skillet, the aroma of garlic and soy caramelizing together, and the vibrant presentation of glossy shrimp against a bed of green broccoli and fluffy rice—it’s comfort food elevated with elegance.