Description
This Honey Orange Shrimp recipe features succulent, large shrimp sautéed to perfection with a sweet and tangy honey-orange glaze. The shrimp are flavored with fresh garlic, orange zest, and a hint of soy sauce, making a quick and vibrant dish that is perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner or an impressive yet simple meal for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the honey, fresh orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to blend all ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking, preparing the pan for sautéing the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and slightly opaque, then flip them over.
- Add the marinade: Pour the prepared honey-orange sauce over the shrimp in the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat the shrimp evenly and to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the shrimp.
- Check doneness: Once the shrimp are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a sticky glaze, remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and garnish with orange slices if desired. Serve immediately while hot for best taste.
Notes
- The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your preferred spice level.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery; cook just until pink and opaque.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad.
- Use fresh orange juice for best flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste slightly.
