This Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp is a sweet and tangy delight! The shrimp are perfectly cooked and covered in a tasty sauce made from orange juice, honey, and garlic. Yum!
It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight meal. I love serving it over rice or noodles—it adds that extra tasty touch! 🥡✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish. You can also use medium shrimp if that’s what you have, or even chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but you can swap it with canola or avocado oil if needed. They have high smoke points and work well for sautéing.
Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is best for flavor. If you don’t have it, bottled juice will do, but make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness, but you can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option. Adjust the amount depending on your taste preference.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness. If you’re soy-free, try coconut aminos or tamari for a similar taste.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp correctly is key to this dish. They cook quickly, so be careful not to overdo it! Here’s what to do:
- Start with a hot pan. This helps to sear the shrimp quickly, locking in juices.
- Cook briefly, just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. They’ll continue to cook slightly after removing from heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to allow them to sear properly.
By following these tips, your shrimp will come out tender and juicy every time!
How to Make Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly for garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, making a total of 20 minutes. It’s quick, so you can enjoy a tasty meal even on a busy night!
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’re using it), grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. This is your sweet and tangy sauce that will give the shrimp their delicious flavor. Set it aside for now.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil nice and hot for a good sear on the shrimp.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, lightly season them with salt and pepper, and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to turn pink but are not fully cooked yet.
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Pour the Sauce:
Now, pour the orange honey sauce into the skillet. Stir gently to coat all the shrimp evenly with the sauce.
6. Finish Cooking:
Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and the shrimp to cook all the way through. They should be opaque and tender when ready!
7. Serve it Up:
Remove the skillet from heat and plate the shrimp alongside your choice of cooked rice or cauliflower rice. This adds a nice base to soak up all that tasty sauce!
8. Add Final Touches:
For a pop of color and flavor, garnish your shrimp with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. This makes your dish not only delicious but also beautiful!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp immediately and enjoy the bright, sweet, and savory explosion of flavors. It’s sure to be a hit!
This dish is vibrant and flavorful, with the orange and honey bringing a lovely sweetness balanced by garlic and soy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can simply omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, consider adding more flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Always taste as you go to find the right balance for your palate!
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are both gluten-free alternatives.
What Can I Serve with Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp?
This shrimp pairs beautifully with cooked rice or cauliflower rice. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!
