Name: Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ⅓ cup honey; ¼ cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro or parsley; 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor but comes together in a flash, this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender shrimp coated in a luscious glaze of honey and garlicky goodness, with just the right amount of zing from fresh ginger and a gentle hint of heat from red pepper flakes. It’s simple, vibrant, and so satisfying that it quickly became one of my favorite weeknight meals to whip up when time is tight but taste can’t be compromised.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with raw shrimp with tails on sits on a white marbled surface. Around it are small white bowls holding three sauces: a golden honey-like sauce, a bright yellow oil, and a deep black soy sauce. There is a whole white garlic bulb, a small pile of red chili flakes, a piece of light beige fresh ginger root, and fresh green bunches of cilantro and green onions placed neatly on the surface. The colors are natural and fresh, all resting on the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe is a star player, bringing balance, brightness, and depth to the dish. From the natural sweetness of honey to the savory umami of tamari soy sauce, each one elevates the shrimp to a new level of deliciousness.

⅓ cup honey: Provides the perfect sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the shrimp.
¼ cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos): Adds savory depth and richness with a gluten-free option.
4 garlic cloves minced: Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness.
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: Offers a fresh, spicy kick that adds warmth and complexity.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Brings just a touch of heat to balance the sweetness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing shrimp to a perfect sear and adding a silky mouthfeel.
1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and quick-cooking.
1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro or parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous note at the end.
1 green onion thinly sliced: Provides fresh, mild onion flavor plus a pop of color.

How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Make the Sauce

Start by combining honey, tamari soy sauce, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This mixture is your magic sauce that perfectly balances sweet, salty, spicy, and savory notes all at once—essential for that crave-worthy flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place your peeled and deveined shrimp in a separate bowl, then pour about one-third of the sauce over them. Toss well to coat every piece, then let them soak up all those flavors by marinating for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the shrimp absorb the balance of tastes and also tenderizes them slightly, making every bite juicy and delicious.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp, discarding any leftover marinade, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. You’ll want to see them turn pink and just opaque—this is the perfect point for juicy shrimp that are not overcooked.

Step 4: Simmer with the Sauce

Pour the remaining two-thirds of your sauce into the pan with the shrimp and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp beautifully, about one minute. This creates a sticky, glossy finish that makes the dish irresistible.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and stir in your chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of fresh herbal brightness. Top everything with thinly sliced green onions for crunch and color just before serving.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

A large silver pan filled with about twenty pieces of cooked shrimp, each shrimp orange with a slightly charred surface, sitting in a dark glossy sauce spread evenly across the bottom of the pan. Two metal tongs with black silicone tips are resting inside the pan, one held over the shrimp as if about to grab one. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with some brown specks and bits of seasoning around the shrimp. The shrimp are arranged in a single layer, covering most of the pan's bottom. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The charm of this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe really shines with simple garnishes. Fresh cilantro or parsley adds vibrant color and brightness that cut through the richness, while the sliced green onions contribute a mild, refreshing crunch. To elevate presentation and flavor further, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for nuttiness or serve with a wedge of lime for an optional zesty finish.

Side Dishes

This shrimp pairs wonderfully with light and fluffy jasmine rice or steamed brown rice to soak up all that luscious sauce. For a lower-carb option, try serving it over sautéed spiralized zucchini or a fresh Asian-style slaw. Quick-cooked stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli also complement the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this dish straight from the pan family-style or plate it elegantly over a bed of rice or greens for a dinner party. Another fun idea is to use the Honey Garlic Shrimp as a topping for rice bowls or crisp lettuce wraps, adding crunch and freshness to every bite. For a snack or appetizer option, skewer the shrimp for easy handling and a visually appealing presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe disappears fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to two days, making for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them before cooking here to maintain the best texture. If you freeze cooked shrimp, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to one month, but note that the quality may decline slightly. For maximum freshness, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking and drying them out. You can add a splash of water or additional sauce to keep them moist. Microwaving is possible but can easily make the shrimp rubbery, so use low power and short intervals if you choose this method.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture interfering with the sauce.

Is tamari soy sauce necessary, or can I use regular soy sauce?

Regular soy sauce works fine, but tamari is gluten-free and typically less salty, which helps balance the flavors in this dish more precisely.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth—not overwhelming heat—so it’s perfect even if you prefer milder flavors. You can always adjust the amount to your liking.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

While shrimp is the main protein, you can substitute cauliflower florets or tofu to make a vegan version and follow the same cooking method and sauce for a delicious plant-based meal.

What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp quickly?

Using a sharp paring knife, gently remove the shell starting from the legs, then make a shallow cut along the back and pull out the vein. Buying pre-peeled and deveined shrimp can save time.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a shining example of how a few fresh and simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for any night you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite go-to dinner that impresses every single time.