A Historical Overview of Honey Garlic Shrimp
Honey garlic shrimp is a modern fusion dish that brings together Asian-inspired flavors with a Western love for quick, high-protein meals. Shrimp has been enjoyed for centuries across coastal cultures, prized for its delicate flavor and lean protein. The combination of honey and garlic gained popularity in Chinese-American cuisine in the mid-20th century, where sweet and savory sauces became staples in takeout dishes. Today, honey garlic shrimp is celebrated worldwide for its simplicity, bold flavors, and ability to be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners.
High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Honey Garlic Shrimp is sweet, savory, and protein-packed, making it an easy go-to dinner for busy nights. Juicy shrimp are coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce and paired with crisp broccoli for a balanced meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you need a healthy dish that feels restaurant-quality without the fuss.
Ingredients
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
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2 cups broccoli florets
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3 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
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3 tbsp honey
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (optional, for thickening)
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½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Sesame seeds & green onions, for garnish
Instructions
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In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, and chili flakes. Set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
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Add broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
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Return shrimp to the pan, pour in sauce, and stir to coat.
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If a thicker sauce is desired, add cornstarch slurry and simmer 1 minute.
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Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
Notes
Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or salmon for variation.
Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more veggies.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
2. What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp?
It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, noodles, or low-carb sides like cauliflower rice and zucchini noodles.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. Mix the honey garlic sauce and refrigerate for up to 3 days—just shake or stir before using.
