If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in a flash, you absolutely have to try this 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of sweet honey, pungent garlic, and that touch of heat that keeps every bite exciting. What makes this recipe so irresistible is not just the taste but how fast and simple it is to put together, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want a delicious meal without the fuss. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become one of your favorite quick dishes to whip up again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s delivering bold flavor, adding a satisfying texture, or simply bringing the dish to life visually. These simple pantry staples and fresh components combine beautifully to create a finished plate that’s anything but ordinary.
- 900g (2 lbs) shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce: Adds salty umami depth that boosts the overall taste.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Creates a light coating on the shrimp for that delightful slightly crispy texture.
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Essential for a good sear and to toss in the garlicky sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Packs serious punch and warmth that defines the dish’s character.
- 2 tablespoons ginger paste or grated fresh ginger: Brings brightness and subtle spice to balance the honey.
- 8 tablespoons honey: The sweet hero that caramelizes perfectly, giving the shrimp a glossy, finger-licking glaze.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional or to taste): Adds a fiery kick but can be adjusted to your preference.
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish): Freshness and a pop of color that lift the finished dish.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional twist for nutty depth): A small addition with a big impact on aroma and flavor complexity.
- Zest of 1 lime (optional twist for a citrusy kick): Brightens everything up with a zesty fresh note at the finish.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional for balance): Adds subtle acidity to cut through the sweetness elegantly.
How to Make 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by tossing the shrimp with soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl until every piece is nicely coated. This simple step helps build flavor and ensures the shrimp gets a slightly crispy exterior once cooked. While you prepare the sauce ingredients, let the shrimp absorb those seasonings—it only takes a few minutes but makes a noticeable difference.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat half of the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Working in batches, cook the shrimp for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side. You want them to turn pink and get a bit of a crisp edge without overcooking. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside. This searing locks in the shrimp’s juiciness and adds that irresistible texture contrast.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Using the same pan, add the remaining oil and sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step releases their aromatic oils, creating the base of our sauce. Next, stir in honey, chili flakes, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar to create a vibrant glaze. Let everything bubble gently for about a minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Glaze the Shrimp
Return the seared shrimp to the pan and toss thoroughly in the wonderful honey garlic sauce. Keep cooking for just another minute so the shrimp get fully coated and heated through. Right before serving, sprinkle the zest of one lime over the dish for that unexpected citrus sparkle that brightens the whole flavor profile.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Finish by topping with those vibrant green onions. This little touch not only adds visual appeal but refreshes the palate with every bite. Whether spooned over steaming jasmine rice, tossed with noodles, or nestled in crunchy lettuce wraps, this dish is ready to delight.
How to Serve 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions add a fresh, mild crunch and beautiful color against the glossy shrimp. For an extra layer, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or a few more chili flakes for heat enthusiasts. These garnishes elevate the dish, tempting both eyes and taste buds.
Side Dishes
Pair this recipe with fluffy jasmine rice or garlic stir-fried noodles to soak up all those heavenly honey garlic juices. For a lighter option, crisp lettuce wraps work wonderfully, turning this into a delicious handheld treat. Steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or snap peas also bring balance and vibrant color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress at your next dinner party by serving the shrimp atop a bed of fresh greens or draping it over rice paper rolls with herbs for an Asian-inspired appetizer twist. Drizzle with extra sauce and lime wedges on the side for guests to customize. The 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is flexible and fun to plate, so get creative and make it your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some shrimp sauce magic left over? Store the shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp will absorb even more of the sauce’s flavors overnight, making the leftovers just as tasty, especially when reheated gently.
Freezing
While fresh shrimp is best, you can freeze cooked shrimp in sauce for up to one month. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor as much as possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through—about 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid microwaving as shrimp can easily overcook and turn rubbery. Adding a splash of water or a little extra honey garlic sauce can help revive that fresh-made taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to defrost the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the cornstarch stick and ensures a nice sear.
How spicy is the 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
The chili flakes add a mild heat, but it’s easily adjustable. Skip them for a sweeter, milder dish, or add more if you like it fiery hot.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the light soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and you’re good to go.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It’s quick to make and stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives that will still provide that lovely sweetness and shine.
Final Thoughts
This 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is genuinely a game-changer when it comes to quick and flavorful meals. It’s loaded with vibrant tastes, simple ingredients, and impressive results that will make you feel like a kitchen pro every time. I’m so excited for you to try it out and make it a treasured staple in your own recipe collection—once you do, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Print
10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick, flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp glazed with a sweet and spicy honey garlic sauce. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner, it balances savory soy, aromatic ginger and garlic, a hint of chili heat, and optional bright citrus notes for a finger-licking treat.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 900g (2 lbs) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Cooking and Sauce
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ginger paste or grated fresh ginger
- 8 tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
- Zest of 1 lime (optional)
For Garnish
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with light soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated to create a light batter. Let it sit while you prepare the sauce, allowing flavors to meld and the coating to adhere.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a slight crisp exterior. Remove the shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Sauté minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, chili flakes, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken for 1 minute, intensifying the flavors.
- Glaze the Shrimp: Return the seared shrimp to the pan, tossing them thoroughly to coat in the sticky honey garlic sauce. Cook for another minute until the shrimp are heated through and glossy. Add the lime zest just before finishing to add a fresh, citrusy brightness.
- Serve & Garnish: Transfer the glazed shrimp to a serving plate and sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice, jasmine noodles, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a light, delicious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies.
- Use fresh shrimp for best taste and texture, but frozen shrimp can be used—just thaw thoroughly before cooking.
- The toasted sesame oil adds a nutty depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Lime zest is optional but recommended for a bright finishing flavor.
- This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or light noodles.
