There is something truly magical about bright, zesty flavors paired with tender, juicy shrimp, and that’s exactly why the Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe has become one of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up when I want a blast of sunshine on my plate. This dish beautifully balances the natural sweetness of honey and fresh orange juice with just the right touch of garlic and soy sauce. The result is a vibrant, colorful meal that’s bursting with flavor yet surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe delivers freshness, sweetness, and a hint of spice in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything about this Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe starts with straightforward, everyday ingredients that pack a powerful punch together. Each one plays a crucial role in building the saucy, sweet, and savory flavor profile, while adding texture and visual appeal to the dish.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best tenderness and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the shrimp, adding a lovely golden crust.
- 1/4 cup honey: Brings natural sweetness that perfectly complements the citrus.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange): For vibrant acidity and a juicy burst of citrus flavor.
- Zest of 1 orange: Intensifies the orange flavor with aromatic oils.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent depth and warmth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Provides umami and subtle saltiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick for those who love a little heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and bright green color.
- Orange slices (for garnish, optional): Perfect for an elegant finishing touch.
How to Make Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by making sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined for a clean, delicious bite. Pat them dry with paper towels; removing excess moisture helps them sear beautifully rather than steam.
Step 2: Make the Honey Orange Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, fresh orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. This mixture is the heart of the Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe—bold, sweet, and bright.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and just opaque. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Pour the honey orange sauce into the skillet with the shrimp. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, spooning the glaze over the shrimp so they soak up all that amazing flavor and develop a glossy, sticky coating.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
Taste the shrimp and sauce, then add salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the soy sauce already adds saltiness, so season carefully to avoid overpowering the dish.
How to Serve Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous contrast to the sugary glaze while orange slices bring a sweet and tangy visual appeal that complements the overall presentation perfectly.
Side Dishes
Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa, which soak up the luscious sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside garlic sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus for vibrant greens.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shrimp on skewers over a bed of cilantro-lime rice or inside warm tortillas with crunchy slaw for homemade shrimp tacos. You could also plate it over a fresh salad with avocado and fennel for a light yet flavour-packed meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp can absorb even more flavor overnight, making leftovers a treat in their own right.
Freezing
This Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze, cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for best taste and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Add a splash of water or orange juice to revive the saucy glaze and heat just until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for honey in this recipe?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives, though honey provides a unique floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with orange.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle background heat that balances the sweetness without overwhelming, but you can omit them for a milder dish.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can mix the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours — just give it a quick whisk before combining it with the shrimp.
What is the best way to peel and devein shrimp?
Start by removing the shell while leaving the tail intact if desired for presentation. Then use a small knife or your fingers to make a shallow cut along the back and pull out the dark vein gently.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten your dinner table with an effortless, flavorful meal, this Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe is your new go-to. It’s easy enough for a weekday dinner but impressive enough to serve guests, delivering sweet, tangy, and savory notes all at once. I can’t wait for you to try it and add a little citrus sunshine to your cooking!
Print
Honey Orange Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American with Asian influences
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Honey Orange Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with a hint of citrus. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for a fast weeknight dinner or a special meal that impresses without the fuss. The shrimp is cooked with a delightful glaze made from honey, fresh orange juice, garlic, and soy sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and orange slices for an elegant touch.
Ingredients
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
- Orange slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp and marinade. In a medium bowl, combine honey, fresh orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to create a sweet and tangy glaze. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them to get a good sear.
- Flip and add glaze. Turn the shrimp over and immediately pour the honey orange glaze over them. Continue cooking and stir the shrimp gently to coat them with the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until they are cooked through and the glaze thickens slightly.
- Finishing touches. Remove the skillet from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional orange slices for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
- Serve promptly. Serve the Honey Orange Shrimp hot with your choice of side dishes such as steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- If you prefer less heat, omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a deeper orange flavor, add a little orange liqueur like Grand Marnier to the glaze.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain their tender texture.
- This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or a simple stir-fried vegetable medley.
