Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish to whip up after a busy day, this Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli recipe is about to become your new favorite. It combines tender shrimp with crisp broccoli, all coated in a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce that’s sweet, savory, and just the right amount of tangy. Ready in minutes, this dish is packed with protein and veggies, making it a perfect dinner for anyone who wants a wholesome meal without hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Quick to Make: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Burst of Flavor: The honey garlic sauce creates a perfectly balanced sweet and savory taste in every bite.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich broccoli, this meal supports a balanced diet.
• Simple and Clean: Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh ingredients for fuss-free cooking.
• Versatile Dish: Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies or protein options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that work together to deliver amazing taste and satisfying texture. Each element contributes something special, from the sweetness of honey to the crunch of freshly steamed broccoli.

• Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined medium shrimp for tenderness and quick cooking.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, they add vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances the garlic and soy sauce perfectly.
• Garlic cloves: Minced for a robust, aromatic flavor.
• Soy sauce: Adds savory umami notes and seasoning depth.
• Olive oil or sesame oil: For sautéing shrimp and broccoli with a subtle nutty richness.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a bit of heat if you like a little kick.
• Green onions: Chopped, to garnish and add freshness at the end.
• Cornstarch (optional): For thickening the sauce and giving it a glossy finish.

Variations for Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to switch up ingredients based on what you have or your dietary preferences. Customizing it is easy and fun!

• Swap the Shrimp: Replace shrimp with chicken breast or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to boost flavor and texture.
• Make It Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add sriracha for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce the honey or use a sugar-free substitute to cut down sweetness.

How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if not already done. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. If you want a thicker sauce, dissolve a teaspoon of cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and add it to the mix.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Heat a drizzle of olive or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add broccoli florets and sauté until bright green and just tender, about 4-5 minutes. Remove broccoli and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook for the best texture.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the broccoli to the skillet and pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp and broccoli. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat each piece beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp gives the best texture and flavor compared to frozen.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—remove from heat as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubberiness.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Mince garlic and mix the sauce beforehand to speed up cooking time.
• High Heat Cooking: Use a hot pan to get that nice sear on shrimp and broccoli while retaining crispness.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste and tweak the honey amount if you prefer it sweeter or less so.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions and a few sesame seeds on top for a pop of color and subtle crunch that adds a fresh finish to the dish.

Side Dishes

This flavorful Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, creating a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in a vibrant bowl over a bed of noodles or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a light, fun handheld meal that impresses without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

While shrimp dishes generally freeze well, the broccoli may become softer once thawed. If freezing, separate shrimp and broccoli or freeze only the shrimp and re-cook the broccoli fresh.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the honey garlic sauce stays glossy and doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry to avoid excess water in the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, replace shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh and use soy sauce alternatives that fit your diet.

How spicy is the dish?

The base recipe is mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or sriracha to increase the spice level.

What’s the best way to keep broccoli crispy?

Cook broccoli over high heat for a short time, and avoid over-steaming so it stays brightly colored and crunchy.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli is a game-changer for anyone needing a fast, satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste or nutrition. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly this becomes a go-to in your dinner rotation. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a healthy profile—it’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is actually super good for you!

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