This Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp is a tasty treat that’s super easy to whip up! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made with fresh oranges, honey, and garlic.
You can serve this dish over rice or noodles, and trust me, you’ll want every last drop of that sauce. It’s like a little burst of sunshine on your plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish, giving a nice bite. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use chicken or tofu cut into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Olive oil: This is great for sautéing, but feel free to use avocado oil or sesame oil for a different flavor. Both options have high smoke points, making them perfect for frying.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works as a substitute, but use about 1/8 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Honey: For a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can replace honey easily without losing that sweetness.
Orange juice: Fresh juice is ideal for brightness, but bottled juice will do in a pinch. You can also use grapefruit juice for a twist!
How Do I Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it. Here’s how to get perfectly cooked shrimp:
- Make sure the shrimp are completely thawed if using frozen. Pat them dry for a good sear.
- Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque.
- Be careful not to overcook; shrimp get tough if cooked too long. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re opaque to retain juiciness.
How to Make Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and an additional 10 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy meal to enjoy in just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. This will create your delicious sauce that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the shrimp. Once mixed, set it aside for later!
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. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown—burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden, then flip them over to cook the other side.
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour your orange honey sauce over the shrimp. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, tossing the shrimp in the sauce so each piece is well coated. Cook until the shrimp are fully cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a delicious glaze.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the glazed shrimp over warm cooked rice for a complete meal. Lastly, garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and relish the vibrant flavors of your homemade Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to place them in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, put them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking, or microwave them in short intervals until heated through.
Can I Substitute Honey in the Sauce?
Absolutely! If you want a vegan option, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey. Both will give you a similar sweetness and work beautifully in the sauce.
What Can I Serve with Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa or cooked noodles for a different twist. For a low-carb option, consider a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
