This orange honey garlic shrimp recipe is a tasty combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The shrimp cook quickly, making this an easy meal for any night of the week!
I love how the sauce makes the shrimp shine and delivers a yummy taste! Serve it over rice or with veggies for a well-rounded dish that always impresses!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp give the best texture and flavor in this dish. If you can’t get fresh, frozen shrimp works just fine! Just make sure to thaw them first. If you’re vegan, try using tofu or mushrooms instead for a similar sauce.
Orange Juice: Fresh juice brightens the dish. If you’re short on oranges, bottled orange juice can be used, but opt for 100% juice with no added sugar for the best flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth. For a vegan option, consider maple syrup or agave. Adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1/4 teaspoon for a substitute. You can also use shallots for a milder taste.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp is quick, so keep an eye on them! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding olive oil; this helps sear the shrimp quickly.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Don’t overcook! Shrimp might be tough if cooked too long. Once they curl and change color, they’re ready!
Make sure to taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can make a big difference!
Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional for slight tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, to serve
Time Needed:
This delicious dish can be prepared in about 15 minutes. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 10 minutes cooking the shrimp. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (if you’d like that tangy flavor), and crushed red pepper flakes (for a little heat). Set this wonderful sauce aside to let the flavors combine!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and golden—but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add the shrimp! Place them in the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they start turning pink. Then, flip them over to cook the other side.
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour the orange honey sauce over the shrimp and stir gently to coat all of them in the sauce. Keep cooking for another 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening, and the shrimp will turn fully pink and opaque when done.
5. Final Touches:
Give the shrimp a taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat, and transfer the shrimp and sauce to serving plates.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the shrimp with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the shrimp immediately over a bed of cooked white rice. Enjoy your delightful meal!
This Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is a great way to bring sweet and savory flavors together quickly. Enjoy cooking and share it with friends or family for a flavorful dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well for a similar sweetness. You can also use brown sugar dissolved in a bit of warm water if you prefer a granulated option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook the shrimp.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just stir-fry the vegetables before adding the shrimp, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
