Are you ready to cook a dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor? My Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp is your go-to recipe for a quick and tasty meal. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip this up in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips and tricks to make it perfect every time. Let’s dive into this savory delight and satisfy your taste buds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Sweet and Savory: The honey garlic glaze provides a delightful balance of sweetness and umami that elevates the shrimp.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and natural sweeteners keeps this dish light and health-conscious.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad, allowing for customization.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp, you will need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap some ingredients if needed:
- Use shrimp with shells for more flavor.
- Maple syrup can replace honey for a different taste.
- Coconut aminos may replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Fresh garlic can be substituted with garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove).
- Any oil can stand in for sesame oil, but it changes the flavor.
- Use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for thickening.
Recommended Tools and Equipment
You will find these tools helpful while making this dish:
- A large skillet or frying pan for cooking.
- A medium-sized bowl for mixing the sauce.
- A whisk or fork for blending the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
- A spatula for stirring and serving.
- A cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients.
- Paper towels for drying the shrimp.
These ingredients and tools make it easy to create this tasty dish. Enjoy the process and the great flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Shrimp
Start with one pound of large shrimp. Rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps remove extra moisture. Next, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning brings out their natural taste.
Making the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. The honey adds sweetness, while the soy sauce gives a salty kick. Garlic and ginger bring bold flavor to the sauce. Once mixed, set the bowl aside for later.
Cooking the Shrimp and Finishing Touches
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of sesame oil. When the oil is hot, place the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink. This quick cooking keeps the shrimp tender.
Now, pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes. Gently stir to coat the shrimp. The sauce will begin to bubble and thicken. To thicken it further, stir in a cornstarch slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the shrimp right away. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For a lovely touch, serve the shrimp over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa. Enjoy your tasty honey garlic glazed shrimp!
Tips & Tricks
Key Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp
To cook shrimp well, start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for large, firm shrimp. Peel and devein them for the best taste. Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry. This step helps the shrimp sear nicely. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in a single layer. This keeps them juicy and tender. Cook them only until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Flavor Enhancements and Pairing Suggestions
You can add a kick by mixing in red pepper flakes or chili paste. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish, giving it a fresh taste. Serve the shrimp over jasmine rice or quinoa for a filling meal. A side of steamed broccoli or snap peas adds color and crunch. For drinks, pair this dish with a chilled white wine or green tea for balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the shrimp. They can become rubbery and tough if you cook them too long. Always taste the sauce before adding more salt. Some soy sauces are saltier than others. When using cornstarch, make sure to mix it well with water. A lumpy sauce won’t coat the shrimp evenly. Lastly, don’t skip the garnishes. Chopped green onions and sesame seeds make the dish visually appealing and delicious.
Pro Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but fresh will elevate your dish.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey by a tablespoon.
- Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be just pink and opaque; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the shrimp with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
To add some heat, mix in red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch. Taste, and add more if you like it spicy. The heat pairs well with the sweet honey. It makes each bite exciting! You can also use sriracha for a different taste. Just stir it into the sauce before cooking. This gives a nice kick!
Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Make skewers for a fun twist! Thread the shrimp onto wooden or metal skewers. Brush them with the honey garlic sauce before grilling. This adds a smoky flavor. You can cook them on a grill or in the oven. Serve these skewers at parties or barbecues. They are easy to eat and look great on a plate!
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-fry with Vegetables
For a healthy option, add veggies! Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work well. Cook the shrimp first, then add the veggies. Stir-fry until they are bright and tender. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the mix. This dish is colorful and full of flavor. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Shrimp
To store leftover shrimp, let it cool first. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to separate the shrimp from the sauce to keep it fresh longer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat shrimp, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until warm. Avoid high heat; it can make the shrimp tough. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Tips for Shrimp and Sauce
You can freeze shrimp and sauce for later use. To freeze, place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. The sauce can also go into a separate container. Use both within three months for the best taste. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
I recommend using large shrimp for this dish. They hold up well during cooking. You can find fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, thaw them before cooking. Look for shrimp that are peeled and deveined to save time. This makes the prep easy and quick.
Can I make Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and sauce as normal. Let it cool, then store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat. This way, you save time on busy days.
How can I make the dish healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use less honey or soy sauce. You can also add more veggies. Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. This adds fiber and vitamins. Serve over brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for more nutrients.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp?
Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp pairs well with several sides. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Brown rice or quinoa
- Stir-fried vegetables
- A fresh salad
These options balance the meal and add more flavors.
In this article, we explored the key ingredients and tools for Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp. We discussed step-by-step cooking instructions and shared tips for perfect results. You learned about delicious variations and smart storage tips. Remember, small changes can create big flavors. Avoid common mistakes to make every bite count. With these insights, you are ready to cook a fantastic meal. Enjoy this easy dish for your next dinner!