High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp is an easy and delicious recipe that packs a protein punch while keeping flavors bright and appealing. If you’re looking for a quick meal that’s not only tasty but also nutritious, this recipe is perfect for you!
Why Make This Recipe
Honey Garlic Shrimp is not only quick to prepare but also a great way to incorporate high-quality protein into your diet. Shrimp is a wonderful source of protein that’s low in calories and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The combination of honey and soy sauce with the aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that balances sweet and savory perfectly. Whether you’re a busy parent seeking a family-friendly meal or just someone looking to enjoy a healthy dish, this recipe will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals.
How to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
Preparing High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp is simple and can be done in just a few steps. Follow along for a quick and delightful cooking experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Steamed rice or vegetables for serving
Directions
- In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the shrimp to the mixture, ensuring every piece is coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the shrimp along with the marinade.
- Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables.
Pro Tips for Success with Honey Garlic Shrimp
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Use Fresh Shrimp: When possible, buy fresh shrimp rather than frozen for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they’re properly thawed before cooking.
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Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor: If you have time, let the shrimp marinate for up to an hour. This allows the flavors to deepen and provides a more pronounced taste.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking. They cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
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Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to decrease the amount of honey or substitute with a sugar-free alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake.
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Use Flexibility with Heat: If you enjoy spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a nice kick.
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Experiment with Marinades: Try using different marinades by incorporating ginger or chili sauce to change the flavor profile.
Flavor Variations for Honey Garlic Shrimp
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Lemon Zest: Add some freshly grated lemon zest to the marinade to give a zesty brightness that complements the honey perfectly.
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Sesame Oil: Substitute olive oil with sesame oil for a nutty flavor that pairs well with the soy sauce.
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Scallions: Toss in some sliced scallions while cooking for a burst of freshness and an added layer of flavor.
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Cilantro: Garnish the final dish with chopped cilantro for a fresh and lively finish.
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Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple during the cooking process to introduce a tropical sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Serving Suggestions for Honey Garlic Shrimp
Honey Garlic Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
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Over Rice: Serve the shrimp over fluffy steamed jasmine or brown rice, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious sauce.
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With Vegetables: Pair the dish with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
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In Tacos: For a fun twist, consider using the shrimp as a filling for tacos, topped with avocado and fresh lime juice.
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On a Salad: Place shrimp over a bed of crisp greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.
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In Bowls: Create a nourishing grain bowl by combining quinoa or farro with assorted colorful vegetables and the honey garlic shrimp on top.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Honey Garlic Shrimp
If you have leftovers, storing your High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp is simple:
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Refrigeration: Place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll last for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
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Freezing: For longer storage, transfer the cooled shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———-|——–|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbs | 26g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
FAQ About High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A quick way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, you can substitute honey with agave nectar or a sugar-free sweetener of your choice. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to taste, as different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness.
What type of soy sauce should I use?
You can use either regular soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce depending on your dietary needs. If you prefer a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute that works well in this recipe.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?
Cooked shrimp will turn pink and opaque when they’re done. You can also cut one open to check that it’s no longer translucent. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so monitor the cooking process closely!
Can I double or halve the recipe easily?
Yes, this recipe is very adaptable! Feel free to scale the ingredients up or down based on your meal needs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with larger or smaller quantities.
Final Thoughts
High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp is a delightful and quick meal that will satisfy your taste buds while boosting your protein intake. Whether you enjoy it over rice, in tacos, or as part of a fresh salad, this recipe is versatile and easy to make. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking this scrumptious dish that your whole family will love!
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High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and nutritious shrimp dish with a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, perfect for a healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Steamed rice or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the shrimp to the mixture, ensuring every piece is coated, and let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the shrimp along with the marinade.
- Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh shrimp and adjust the sweetness to your preference. Marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
