This Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick and tasty meal that’s bursting with sweetness and tang. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a delicious sauce made from orange juice, honey, and garlic!
It’s great for busy nights when you want something nice without the fuss! I love serving it over rice; it makes the meal feel fancy, even if I just whipped it up in 20 minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp is ideal for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them first. For those who prefer plant-based options, you could use firm tofu or chickpeas as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder will work in a hurry. Just remember that you’ll need less – about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best taste. If you can’t get fresh oranges, bottled juice is okay. You can also use a mix of orange juice and a bit of lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
Honey: For a vegan option, swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both work well, and they still give you that nice touch of sweetness.
Soy Sauce: If you’re watching sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice. Alternatively, tamari is gluten-free, and coconut aminos can be used for a milder flavor.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, as they cook very quickly! Follow these tips to get that perfectly tender shrimp:
- Start with a hot skillet! Preheat it before adding oil, which helps cook shrimp evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give shrimp space to cook. This helps them sear rather than steam.
- Cook for just 1-2 minutes on each side. They turn pink when done, so keep an eye on them!
- Remember, they’ll continue to cook a little after you take them off the heat, so don’t leave them in the pan too long.
These steps will help ensure your shrimp is tender and juicy, not rubbery! Enjoy making this delicious meal!
Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for depth)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal to whip up in about 20 minutes total! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce (if you’re using it), minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. This will be your delicious sauce that adds all the flavors!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and lightly season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the shrimp start to turn pink but aren’t fully cooked through yet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; the shrimp need space to cook evenly!
3. Combine and Simmer:
Pour the orange honey garlic sauce over the shrimp in the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will cook the shrimp all the way through and thicken the sauce a little bit. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
4. Final Touches:
Once the shrimp are fully cooked and coated in sauce, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more red pepper flakes for added heat if desired. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a nice pop of color and flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the shrimp immediately over a bed of warm cooked white rice. Be sure to spoon extra sauce over the shrimp and rice for that extra kick of sweetness and flavor.
Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful shrimp dish that’s quick, easy, and absolutely lovely for weeknights or entertaining guests!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp quickly is to place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp. Sriracha or chili garlic sauce also works great, depending on your spice preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help keep the sauce moist and prevent sticking.
What Can I Serve With Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with white rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa, or with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to match various sides!
