I can still remember the aroma wafting from the kitchen every time my mom made shrimp. It wasn’t just any shrimp; it was her special honey garlic shrimp, a dish she perfected over years of tweaking. The sweet and savory scent always drew me in, promising a delicious and comforting meal.
Those dinners were more than just food; they were moments of connection. We would all gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, the honey garlic shrimp a silent centerpiece of our family time. Now, whenever I make this dish, it brings back those cherished memories and feelings of warmth and togetherness. It reminds me of home. I’ve started to perfect my own rice recipe which I now use as a base for this dish; check out this amazing cinnamon rock candy recipe for some inspiration in the kitchen!
Why you’ll love this High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
- This honey garlic shrimp recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast.
- The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love, even picky eaters.
- It’s a healthy and high-protein option that provides a good source of lean protein without being loaded with unhealthy fats.
- This recipe is versatile and can be served over rice, quinoa, pasta, or even as part of lettuce wraps for a lighter meal.
- The shrimp can be marinated ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensifying the taste.
- You can easily customize the level of spice by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked brown rice, for serving
Directions
Step 1
Honey garlic shrimp makes every moment feel satisfying. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the shrimp don’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well combined for a consistent sauce.
Step 3
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the honey garlic sauce. Ensure each shrimp is generously coated so that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4
Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the shrimp to steam instead of bake, resulting in a less desirable texture.
Step 5
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Keep a close eye on them, as shrimp can overcook quickly, becoming rubbery.
Step 6
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over cooked brown rice. The green onions add a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish, both visually and flavor-wise.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce. A little heat can really elevate the flavor of the dish.
If you’re looking for a tangier flavor, try adding a tablespoon of rice vinegar to the sauce. It provides a subtle acidity that balances the sweetness of the honey. Another great way to add freshness is by including some grated ginger in the sauce mix.
Consider adding some vegetables to the baking sheet alongside the shrimp. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or sliced zucchini are great options that complement the honey garlic flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a small amount of sesame oil to the sauce.
Pairings
Honey garlic shrimp is fantastic served over fluffy brown rice, but quinoa or couscous are excellent alternatives if you’re looking for something different. These grains provide a neutral base that allows the flavor of the shrimp to shine.
For a lighter meal, consider serving the shrimp with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a more elaborate Asian-inspired slaw would be a great complement. A crisp salad will help cut through the richness of the sauce.
Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, bok choy, or green beans, make excellent side dishes. Their mild flavors won’t overpower the shrimp and they add essential nutrients to your meal. If you’re looking for even more side dish inspiration, you can find some delicious honey-glazed corn casserole recipes on sites like Cook Reel. This corn casserole would be the perfect pairing for the honey garlic shrimp.
Serving ideas
Garnish the dish with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions and a drizzle of extra honey for added visual appeal. This small touch can make a big difference in presentation.
For a more elegant presentation, arrange the shrimp artfully on a platter surrounded by the rice or quinoa. You can also add a few lemon wedges for a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
If you’re serving this dish at a party, consider using bamboo skewers for easy handling. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers and arrange them on a serving tray with a side of dipping sauce. For a more interactive experience, set up a “build-your-own-bowl” station with various toppings and sauces.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover honey garlic shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will last for up to 2 days. Be sure to cool the shrimp completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming.
To reheat, you can gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave it in short intervals to prevent overcooking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the shrimp moist during reheating. Avoid reheating multiple times, as this can affect the texture and flavor.
While it’s best to consume the shrimp within a couple of days, you can freeze it for longer storage. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen honey garlic shrimp can last for up to 2 months.
Make-ahead
You can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. Simply whisk the sauce again before using to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. Pre-mincing the garlic and measuring out the other ingredients can also speed up the cooking process.
The shrimp can be peeled and deveined a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep them well-covered to prevent them from drying out. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
For the most flavorful results, marinate the shrimp in the honey garlic sauce for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the shrimp. Remember to store the marinating shrimp in the refrigerator to ensure it stays fresh.
Common mistakes when making High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it’s crucial to keep a close eye on it. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and loses its flavor. Bake it just until it turns pink and opaque.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you overcrowd the baking sheet, the shrimp will steam instead of bake, resulting in a less desirable texture. Make sure to spread the shrimp in a single layer.
- Not seasoning properly: Seasoning is key to a flavorful dish. Don’t be afraid to taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Skipping the marinade: Marinating the shrimp allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Even a short 30-minute marinade can make a big difference.
- Using low-quality ingredients: High-quality ingredients will always yield the best results. Use fresh garlic, good quality honey, and wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor.
Final notes
This honey garlic shrimp recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious without a lot of fuss.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavors and adjust the recipe to your liking. Whether you like it spicier, tangier, or sweeter, this dish is easily customizable. Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!
Loved this High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp? Try these next
- Cinnamon Rock Candy Recipe
- Honey Glazed Corn Casserole
- Easy Chicken Stir-Fry
- Lemon Herb Baked Salmon
- Garlic Parmesan Pasta
High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
This high-protein honey garlic shrimp recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal. The shrimp are coated in a savory-sweet honey garlic sauce and baked to perfection, making it a healthier and satisfying option. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked brown rice, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the honey garlic sauce.
- Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over cooked brown rice.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in the honey garlic sauce for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can also grill the shrimp instead of baking. Serve with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 180mg