20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

This 20 minute honey garlic shrimp is a delightful dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. With its quick preparation and big flavor, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a healthy meal in no time. Whether served over brown rice, alongside vegetables, or atop a fresh salad, this dish shines on any table and is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, steamed veggies, or salad for a meal that fits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this dish promotes clean eating without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything at hand will help you prepare this dish in just 20 minutes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Sealable container or zipped-top bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking for perfectly tender shrimp.
• Medium bowl: Essential for mixing your marinade without creating too much mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for an even sauce consistency.
• Sealable container or zipped-top bag: Ideal for marinating shrimp effectively while minimizing cleanup.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/3 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (we usually use reduced sodium)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon jarred minced garlic)
– optional: 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
– 1 lb medium uncooked shrimp, peeled & deveined
– 2 teaspoons olive oil
– optional for garnish: chopped green onion

How to Make 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together the ingredients in a medium bowl:
1. Combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger (if using).
2. Reserve half of this mixture for cooking later.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

1. Place the shrimp in a large sealable container or zipped-top bag.
2. Pour half of the marinade over the shrimp and mix well.
3. Allow the shrimp to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes or up to 8-12 hours.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add marinated shrimp to the skillet (discard used marinade).
3. Cook on one side until pink (about 45 seconds), then flip.
4. Pour in remaining marinade and cook until shrimp are done (about 1-2 more minutes).

Step 4: Serve

Serve the honey garlic shrimp with cooked marinade sauce. Garnish with optional chopped green onion. Enjoy this flavorful dish alongside brown rice and steamed vegetables!

How to Serve 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

This 20 minute honey garlic shrimp recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can enjoy it in various ways, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Brown Rice

• Brown rice provides a hearty base that absorbs the delicious honey garlic sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing the shrimp with steamed broccoli or snap peas adds color and nutrition, creating a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare.

On a Salad

• Serve the shrimp on a bed of mixed greens with sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing and healthy salad option.

As Tacos

• Use corn tortillas to make shrimp tacos topped with avocado, cilantro, and lime for a fun twist on this dish.

With Quinoa

• Quinoa offers a protein-packed alternative to rice and complements the shrimp’s flavors while adding extra texture.

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How to Perfect 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

To ensure your honey garlic shrimp turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly compared to jarred options.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary; this allows them to sear properly rather than steam.
• Marinate longer for deeper flavor: While 15 minutes is sufficient, marinating for several hours can enhance the taste even more.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to add more or less honey according to your taste preference for sweetness.
• Check doneness carefully: Shrimp cook quickly; they are done when they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking for the best texture.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding red pepper flakes or sesame seeds for an extra kick or garnish.

Best Side Dishes for 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

Complement your 20 minute honey garlic shrimp with some delicious side dishes. Here’s a list of great options that pair well with the dish.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds crunch and color while being easy to prepare.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the tasty sauce from the shrimp.
3. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad brings freshness and balances the richness of the shrimp.
4. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a delightful crunch and tang that contrasts nicely with the sweet sauce.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the honey garlic flavors.
6. Asian Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salads with sesame dressing offer a refreshing side that complements the dish beautifully.
7. Fried Rice: A quick fried rice makes an excellent accompaniment, adding more texture and flavor to your meal.
8. Rice Noodles: Light rice noodles can be tossed in any leftover marinade for an additional flavor boost alongside your shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common pitfalls when preparing your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp for the best results.

• Using raw garlic: Fresh garlic can burn quickly in a hot skillet, leading to a bitter taste. Instead, use minced garlic but add it later in the cooking process.
• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the shrimp can result in less flavor. Always allow at least 15 minutes for marination to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough and rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Neglecting to measure ingredients: Not measuring honey or soy sauce can throw off the balance of flavors. Use a measuring cup for accuracy.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can overpower the dish. Opt for reduced sodium soy sauce for a better flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake shrimp covered for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp.

What type of shrimp should I use for 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp?

You can use medium uncooked shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen both work well!

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Chicken or tofu can also be substituted, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Final Thoughts

This 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. You can serve it over brown rice, steamed vegetables, or even toss it into a fresh salad. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices!