This Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp is a tasty dish that features juicy shrimp cooked in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s quick to make, perfect for a busy weeknight!
I love serving it over rice—it’s like a little flavor party in your mouth! And let’s be honest, who can resist shrimp that shines with that delightful honey garlic glaze? Yum! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones will do—just thaw them first! For a different protein, try chicken or tofu.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice and zest add a nice brightness. If you’re short on oranges, bottled juice can work, but fresh always tastes better. You can also use lemon for a tangy twist!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and richness. If you’re vegan or prefer sugar-free options, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead. Adjust the amount to taste, especially if you like it sweeter.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a nice umami flavor. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos. You can also use light soy sauce for less saltiness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) can be substituted, but fresh is always best!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp right is key to tasty results. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook shrimp in batches if necessary, allowing them to sear and develop a slight golden color.
- Keep an eye on them—they only need 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender and flavorful shrimp every time!
Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and cooking. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. This sweet and tangy sauce will add amazing flavor to your shrimp. Once mixed, set it aside for a moment.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear nicely. Lightly season them with salt and pepper. This helps enhance their natural flavor!
3. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. You want it hot but not smoking—just perfect for cooking the shrimp.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp in a single layer without crowding the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and get a slight golden color. Then, flip the shrimp over.
5. Add the Garlic:
Once flipped, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the garlic becomes fragrant. Make sure not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter!
6. Combine with the Sauce:
Pour the prepared orange honey sauce over the shrimp. Stir gently to coat them evenly. Let the sauce simmer in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a beautiful glossy glaze.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of cooked rice or cauliflower rice to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw them is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry before use!
Can I Substitute the Honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you want a vegan option. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Increase the Heat Level?
Of course! If you like it spicy, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce when mixing the orange honey sauce. Just remember to taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!
