Mediterranean Honey Garlic Shrimp
A delicious shrimp dish bursting with a sweet, savory, and tangy honey garlic sauce infused with a touch of Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and fish sauce. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and finished with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining.
Total Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredient:
1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce/Marinade:
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce (optional)
Juice of half a lemon (or to taste)
Hot sauce (to taste)
Other Ingredients:
2 teaspoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
1 cup thinly sliced green onion, for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter
Chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for spice)
Spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Cajun seasoning (optional)
Optional Additions:
Coconut milk (to add creaminess)
Lime juice and zest (for extra citrus brightness)
Fresh cilantro or basil (for garnish and freshness)
Instructions
Prepare the shrimp:
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika if using.
Make the sauce/marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce (if using), lemon juice, and hot sauce to your taste.
Cook the shrimp:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Create the sauce:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the skillet and melt. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly.
Combine and finish:
Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat well in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until shrimp are heated through and fully coated.
Optional additions:
If you want a creamy twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk. Adjust acidity with lime juice and zest. Sprinkle chili flakes or drizzle sriracha for extra heat if desired.
Serve:
Transfer shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro or basil. Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Tips
Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone. Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Dry shrimp before cooking: This helps them sear nicely instead of steaming.
Adjust sweetness and acidity: Taste the sauce and add more honey or lemon juice as preferred.
Use fresh garlic and ginger: Fresh ingredients brighten the flavor far better than powders.
Add heat gradually: Start with a little hot sauce or chili flakes, then increase if desired.
Variations
Creamy Coconut Twist: Stir in 1/4 cup coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor.
Herb Swap: Use basil, mint, or dill instead of cilantro for different fresh notes.
Spicy Cajun: Add Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.
Mediterranean Style: Omit soy sauce and fish sauce; use extra lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a splash of olive oil.
Serve Over: Rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or pasta to make a full meal.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Q: What can I substitute for fish sauce?
A: Use soy sauce with a little extra lemon juice, or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: It’s mild by default, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha to taste for more heat.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: It’s best fresh, but cooked shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. for 4 servings)
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Honey Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant and easy recipe that marries sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with a hint of spice. It cooks in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals or casual entertaining. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize the sauce or serve it over your favorite grain or salad. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful dish anytime you crave something bright and satisfying!