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Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey Garlic Shrimp

Discover the magic of Honey Garlic Shrimp, a remarkably simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe offers a delightful sweet and savory balance, transforming humble shrimp into a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes.
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course: Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a hint of heat
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Paper towels
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

  1. Begin by ensuring your shrimp are fully peeled and deveined. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly seared shrimp; excess moisture will steam them instead of searing, preventing that beautiful golden crust. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and black pepper.
    1 pound large shrimp, Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  2. In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering and just starting to foam, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter flavor to your sauce.
    2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 3 cloves garlic
  3. Pour in the honey, soy sauce (or tamari), and fresh lemon juice directly into the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir everything together to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld. If you desire a touch of heat, stir in the red pepper flakes now.
    1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  4. Whisk the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Gradually pour this slurry into the simmering sauce while continuously stirring. The sauce will begin to thicken almost immediately, coating the back of a spoon. Continue to simmer and stir for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
    1 teaspoon cornstarch
  5. Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet with the thickened honey garlic sauce. Toss to ensure each shrimp is generously coated. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this will make them tough.
    1 pound large shrimp
  6. Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in most of the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the Honey Garlic Shrimp immediately over a bed of fluffy rice, your favorite pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables. Garnish with the remaining fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
    2 tablespoons fresh parsley, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, Cooked rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables

Notes

Make sure to pat the shrimp dry for a good sear. Don't overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
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