Introduction to Honey Garlic Shrimp
Are you a young professional looking for a delicious and quick dinner option? Look no further! Honey Garlic Shrimp is here to save your weeknight meals. This mouthwatering dish balances sweet and savory flavors, making it an instant favorite.
Why Honey Garlic Shrimp is Perfect for Young Professionals
In our busy lives, finding time to cook can be a challenge. Luckily, this recipe is not only incredibly easy but also very satisfying. With just 15 minutes from prep to table, it's perfect for those late workdays when you want something delicious without the fuss. Plus, shrimp cooks in a flash, ensuring you won't be spending ages in the kitchen.
But that's not all—honey garlic shrimp brings a plethora of benefits to your plate. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, making it excellent for a health-conscious diet. Combine that with fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger, and you’re getting a meal loaded with flavor and nutrients.
For a complete dinner, serve your shrimp over rice, and watch as this delightful dish turns your ordinary evening into a culinary experience. Curious about the recipe? Check out the full details here! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Shrimp
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
To whip up your delicious honey garlic shrimp, you'll need a few staple ingredients that bring this dish to life:
- 2 large oranges (for zest and juice)
- 1 tablespoon honey (the key to that sweet flavor)
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free or reduced sodium soy sauce (for the umami kick)
- 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar (to add a tangy twist)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 32 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 18 ounces)
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Canola oil (for frying)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (you can never have too much garlic)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh ginger (for that warm, spicy note)
- 2 scallions (both whites and greens chopped)
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional but recommended for a little heat)
Optional Ingredients for Added Flair
Want to take your honey garlic shrimp to the next level? Consider these optional ingredients:
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- A squeeze of lime juice right before serving for an extra citrusy brightness.
- Sesame seeds sprinkled on top for some nutty crunch.
These additions not only enhance the dish but also make it visually appealing! For more creative side dishes, check out resources like the Culinary Institute of America.
Step-by-step preparation of Honey Garlic Shrimp
Cooking honey garlic shrimp is not just about putting ingredients together; it's about creating a delightful experience that will leave your taste buds wanting more. With a few simple steps, you can whip up this delectable dish in no time. Here’s a friendly and helpful guide to get you started!
Gather and prepare your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. You will need:
- 2 large oranges
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons reduced or gluten-free sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 32 jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon canola oil (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh ginger
- 2 scallions (whites thinly sliced, greens cut into 2-inch lengths)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Make sure to wash and prep everything. This not only saves time but also reduces stress – and we all know that cooking should be fun!
Create the tangy honey garlic sauce
Start by creating your sauce, which is the heart of this honey garlic shrimp recipe. Finely grate the zest from one orange (about 2 teaspoons) and juice both oranges into a bowl. You should have around ¾ cup of juice. Now, whisk in the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar along with a tablespoon of water.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with one tablespoon of the orange-soy mixture until you form a paste. Stir this back into the rest of the mixture to achieve a thicker consistency.
Cook the shrimp to perfection
Next up, it’s time to cook your shrimp! Pat them dry with paper towels to reduce moisture, which ensures they sear nicely. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
In your largest skillet or wok, heat one teaspoon of canola oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering hot. Cook half of your shrimp in a single layer for about 1 to 1½ minutes until the underside is bright pink. Flip and cook for another minute, then transfer them to a plate. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Sauté the aromatics
With the shrimp out of the pan, it’s time to add flair! In the same skillet, add another teaspoon of oil and toss in the minced garlic, ginger, scallion whites, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. If you love strong flavors, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste!
Combine shrimp and sauce
Now, return the shrimp to the skillet, along with the scallion greens. Pour in the orange-soy sauce and toss everything together to ensure every piece of shrimp is well coated with the delicious sauce. Let it cook for a minute or two until the sauce thickens slightly.
Plate and enjoy
Finally, it’s time to enjoy your amazing honey garlic shrimp! Divide the shrimp among four bowls and serve over a bed of warm rice. This dish is perfect for a quick weekday dinner, bringing that satisfying sweet and savory flavor to your table in just 15 minutes.
Don’t forget to share your creations! You could even invite friends over to taste the magic of your kitchen, or simply savor each bite yourself. Bon appétit!
Variations on Honey Garlic Shrimp
Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
If you're a fan of a little heat, try adding more red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha for a spicy twist on the classic honey garlic shrimp. You can adjust the spice level to your taste by increasing or decreasing the amount. This version not only amps up the flavor but also brings a delightful kick that can really elevate your weeknight dinner.
Honey Garlic Shrimp with Veggies
For a heartier meal, toss in some colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the cooking process. This variation not only adds nutritional value but also creates a beautiful, vibrant dish that’s perfect for impressing guests. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens!
These variations on honey garlic shrimp are simple ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes or experiment with different flavors. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy or want to pack in more nutrients, these options are sure to delight. Check out other easy shrimp recipes for more inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Honey Garlic Shrimp
Tips for Perfect Shrimp
To achieve succulent honey garlic shrimp, start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for jumbo shrimp, as they hold up well against cooking. Remember to pat them dry before seasoning; this helps achieve that beautiful sear. Cooking in batches prevents overcrowding in your pan, allowing the shrimp to cook evenly.
Notes on Serving and Presentation
When it comes to serving, a bed of fluffy rice works wonders, complementing the sticky sauce perfectly. For a pop of color, garnish with sliced scallion greens and perhaps a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover sauce on top—it's too good to waste! Want to elevate your meal further? Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful contrast.
For more serving ideas, check out this article.
Serving suggestions for Honey Garlic Shrimp
Recommended sides to complement the dish
To elevate your honey garlic shrimp experience, pair it with fluffy, steamed jasmine or basmati rice that soaks up the delicious sauce. For extra texture, add sautéed bok choy or crispy stir-fried snap peas. A vibrant Asian-style slaw with sesame dressing can bring a delightful crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly sliced scallions or sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch!
Serving sizes and plating ideas
This recipe yields four generous servings, making it great for a cozy dinner or meal prep. For an elegant presentation, serve the shrimp in shallow bowls over rice, drizzling the sauce artfully atop the shrimp. A side of colorful veggies can be arranged around the bowl for a visually appealing touch. Your guests will appreciate the care you put into both the taste and presentation!
Time Breakdown for Honey Garlic Shrimp
Planning a delicious dinner? Here’s a quick look at the time you'll need for this honey garlic shrimp recipe!
Preparation Time
This dish requires just 5 minutes of prep. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Cooking Time
You'll spend about 10 minutes cooking. That’s just enough time to whip up something delicious without the stress!
Total Time
In only 15 minutes, you’ll have a mouth-watering meal ready to serve. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor—ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
For more ideas on speedy meals, check out this resource that highlights quick dinner recipes! If you're wondering how to make shrimp dishes even better, consider checking this comprehensive guide on sustainability. Happy cooking!
Nutritional facts for Honey Garlic Shrimp
When it comes to healthy eating, Honey Garlic Shrimp strikes a wonderful balance between flavor and nutrition. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delectable dish packs in approximately 180 calories. It's a satisfying option without overloading you.
Protein content
With 13 grams of protein per serving, this shrimp dish is an excellent source of lean protein to fuel your busy lifestyle.
Sodium levels
Be mindful of the sodium content, which is around 666 mg per serving. Opting for reduced-sodium soy sauce helps you enjoy the flavors while keeping your intake in check.
For more healthy seafood options, check out resources like the USDA's Nutritional Database or the American Heart Association for guidelines on incorporating shrimp into a balanced diet.
FAQs about Honey Garlic Shrimp
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Honey garlic shrimp can be prepped in advance. Simply marinate the shrimp in the orange-soy mixture for up to an hour, or refrigerate it overnight for a more intense flavor. When you're ready to eat, just follow the cooking instructions for a quick meal that feels freshly made.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from toughening. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be a great alternative. For soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos. Feel free to mix and match veggies too—bell peppers or snap peas work wonderfully in place of scallions.
For more great shrimp recipes, check out Seafood Nutrition for tips on preparation and nutrition.
Conclusion on Honey Garlic Shrimp
Why you should try making this dish tonight!
If you're looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, try this honey garlic shrimp recipe tonight! With just 15 minutes of prep and cooking time, you'll enjoy a flavorful meal that’s sweet, spicy, and utterly delicious. Perfect for impressing friends or a cozy night in!
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Equipment
- skillet
- bowl
- Whisk
- measuring spoons
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 2 large oranges zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons reduced or gluten-free sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 32 jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined) (18 ounces total)
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon canola oil (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh ginger
- 2 scallions (whites thinly sliced, greens cut into 2-inch lengths)
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Finely grate the zest from 1 orange, about 2 teaspoons.
- Juice both oranges into a bowl (you should have about ¾ cup).
- Whisk in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar with 1 tablespoon of water.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of the orange-soy mixture to form a paste, then stir that back into the bowl with the rest of the orange-soy mixture.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In the largest skillet (or wok) you have, heat 1 teaspoon of the oil over medium high heat until shimmering-hot, almost smoking.
- Add half of the shrimp, spread it out in one layer, and cook until the underside is bright pink, 1 to 1½ minutes. Flip and cook 1 minute more, then transfer the shrimp to a plate.
- Repeat with another 1 teaspoon oil and shrimp. Set aside.
- Add the remaining teaspoon of oil to the skillet. Add the garlic, ginger, scallion whites, and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Add the orange-soy liquid and the orange zest and cook, stirring, until thickened, 1 to 2 minutes.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the scallion greens, and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Divide the shrimp among 4 bowls and serve with rice.
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