These Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp are a tasty treat! The sweet and tangy orange sauce mixed with garlic makes every bite burst with flavor. Plus, they cook up quickly, perfect for any dinner.
Honestly, it’s hard not to pop a few extra shrimp while cooking. They’re just so delicious! I love serving them over rice to soak up that yummy sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are best for this dish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works fine. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. I often buy shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save time!
Olive Oil: This oil adds richness to the dish, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or sesame oil for a different flavor. I prefer to use half olive oil and half sesame oil for an extra nutty kick.
Orange Juice: Fresh juice is key for the best flavor. If fresh oranges aren’t available, you can use bottled juice, but ensure it’s 100% pure juice without added sugar for a more natural taste.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup is a great substitute. Maple syrup could work too, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but I’d recommend about 1/8 teaspoon to replace one clove.
Red Pepper Flakes: This ingredient adds heat, but feel free to adjust or omit it based on your preference. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can provide a similar heat if that’s your style!
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is crucial to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Follow these tips:
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook shrimp in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Look for the shrimp to turn pink and curl into a “C” shape, which indicates they are done.
- Cook for only about 2 minutes on each side. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
- It’s okay to take them out just before they seem fully cooked—they’ll continue to cook in the residual heat.
By following these tips and understanding the key ingredients, you’ll create a delicious Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly
- Lemon wedge, for garnish
- Cooked quinoa or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and about 10 minutes of cooking time. So in total, you’ll have a delicious meal in about 20 minutes! Quick, easy, and so satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Stir everything together until well mixed and set aside. This sauce is the star of the dish, so make sure it’s nicely blended!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels—this helps them cook better. Lightly season them with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Then, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate while you make the sauce.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, reduce the heat to medium, directly in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
5. Cook the Sauce:
Pour your prepped orange honey sauce into the skillet with the garlic. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens just a bit. This sweet sauce is what makes the dish so delicious!
6. Combine & Coat:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the thickened sauce. Cook everything together for another minute so the shrimp can soak up all that tasty flavor.
7. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for added texture and color. Serve your Orange Honey Garlic Shrimp immediately over cooked quinoa or rice, with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra citrusy kick!
Enjoy the vibrant, tangy, and sweet flavors of this delightful dish! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leave them in the fridge overnight.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup for a similar sweetness. Keep in mind that maple syrup will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To add more spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce or add a dash of hot sauce when mixing the ingredients. For a fresh twist, sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can also work well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp again!