Name: High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce); 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you are searching for a delicious, nutritious, and quick meal that packs a punch of flavor, the High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is your new go-to dish. This recipe brings together tender, juicy shrimp coated in a luscious honey garlic glaze that is just the right balance of sweet and savory. Perfectly sautéed and garnished with fresh green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also fuels your body with high-quality protein. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or whenever you crave a meal that feels both comforting and vibrant.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with raw shrimp that have a greyish-white color with darker tails, mixed with small bits of minced garlic and a light brown marinade coating the shrimp. A wooden utensil with a bright red silicone head is resting inside the bowl, partially submerged among the shrimp. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward making this irresistible shrimp dish. Each component contributes something special, from the natural sweetness of honey to the depth of soy sauce and the fresh kick of garlic. These basics come together beautifully to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, providing a tender and succulent base.
1/4 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that glossy, sticky sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses bold flavor and a wonderful aroma.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami richness and a touch of saltiness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the shrimp, adding subtle richness.
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious coating.
Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Adds freshness and an appealing pop of color.
Sesame seeds (optional for garnish): Offers a nutty crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water to remove any residue. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels; this helps the shrimp sear properly when cooking, creating that perfect texture you want.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine your honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. If you love a thicker, glaze-like sauce, this is the time to stir in the cornstarch. This mixture is what will turn your shrimp from simple to spectacular.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer so they cook evenly. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure each piece gets a nice sear.

Step 4: Season the Shrimp

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the shrimp once they begin turning pink, usually after 2-3 minutes. Seasoning now enhances the natural seafood flavor while complementing the rich sauce.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Pour your honey garlic mixture over the shrimp and quickly toss to coat every piece. The sauce will start to bubble and thicken, clinging to the shrimp for maximum taste.

Step 6: Let it Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes. This step ensures they’re fully cooked and the sauce achieves the perfect sticky consistency.

Step 7: Garnish

Turn off the heat, then sprinkle sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds over the shrimp. These fresh, crunchy toppings add layers of texture and eye-catching color.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

The High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe tastes best when served warm. Dive in right away to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and textures at their peak.

How to Serve High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

The dish is shown in a white bowl with a scalloped edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is light brown cooked rice, filling most of the bowl. On top of the rice are several large shrimp, cooked to a warm orange color with slight char marks, arranged mostly in the center. Small pieces of chopped green garnish are sprinkled on the shrimp. To one side of the bowl, there are bright green steamed broccoli florets, providing a contrasting color and texture to the shrimp and rice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly sliced green onions and sesame seeds aren’t just for looks. They provide a lively crunch and subtle nuttiness that elevates the dish. For an extra burst of zest, a squeeze of fresh lime or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a tantalizing contrast.

Side Dishes

This shrimp recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to add color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your honey garlic shrimp in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb meal. Another idea is to toss it over a crisp salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a hint of citrus dressing, turning this dish into a refreshing, protein-packed delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. This makes for a quick lunch or dinner option the next day without sacrificing any flavor.

Freezing

If you wish to freeze your shrimp, do so immediately after cooking. Place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen shrimp will maintain good quality for up to 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp on the stove over low heat or use the microwave on a reduced power setting. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps maintain the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is this recipe spicy?

As written, the recipe is not spicy, making it friendly for all palates. However, you can easily add heat by including chopped chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha.

Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?

Yes! Chicken, tofu, or scallops work wonderfully if you want to switch things up. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.

How can I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

Simmering the sauce a bit longer over low heat will naturally thicken it. Alternatively, you can mash a small amount of cooked shrimp into the sauce to help it cling better.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe stores well in the fridge and makes a flavorful, protein-packed meal prep option that tastes fresh when reheated carefully.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s quick, easy, and packs incredible flavor without any fuss. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself after a long day, this dish hits the perfect balance of comforting and exciting. I hope you give it a try and love it as much as I do!