This Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp is a tasty dish that brings together zesty orange juice, sweet honey, and savory garlic. It’s quick to whip up and bursting with flavor!
I love making this shrimp for a weeknight dinner. It cooks in just 10 minutes—perfect for when I want something delicious without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are key here for flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work too; just thaw them properly before cooking. For a different option, consider using chicken or tofu if you’re looking for a non-seafood version.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings the best flavor, but if you have bottled juice, that will do in a pinch. You could also use other citrus juices like lemon or lime for a different taste.
Honey: Honey lends sweetness, but agave syrup or maple syrup are great substitutes if you’re vegan or want a change. Just keep the amount the same.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be used, but use less—about 1/2 teaspoon should suffice.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust these to your spice preference! You can use fresh chopped chili for more heat or even omit it for a milder dish.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Shrimp Without Overcooking Them?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky simply because they cook so quickly. The key is to watch them closely. Here’s a simple guide:
- Use medium-high heat to quickly sear the shrimp.
- Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—about 2 minutes on each side.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re done; they will continue cooking a little after you take them off the stove.
For the best results, keep an eye on them and always err on the side of undercooking if you’re unsure—they’ll get firmer as they sit!
Delicious Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and cook. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and grated ginger (if using). Mix it all up well and set this tasty sauce aside.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. This will prepare the pan for the shrimp, allowing them to cook quickly and evenly.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Lightly sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
4. Add the Sauce:
Flip the shrimp over and pour the orange honey garlic sauce you made earlier right over the top of them. This is where all that flavor comes from!
5. Finish Cooking:
Cook the shrimp for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fully pink and curl up a bit, and the sauce will have thickened nicely.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sliced green onions, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice.
Enjoy your flavorful Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging the bag in cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or you can leave them overnight in the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup works well in place of honey while keeping a similar sweetness. You can also use brown sugar mixed with a tablespoon of water for a quick alternative!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. A splash of water can help loosen the sauce when reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chilies to the sauce. Adjust to your preference for spice.
