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A close-up of a plate of delicious Honey Garlic Shrimp served over a bed of rice with a side of steamed broccoli.

Zesty Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

These succulent honey garlic shrimp skewers are bursting with sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer. Marinated and grilled to perfection, they're incredibly easy to make and universally loved.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1.5 lbs shrimp large, peeled, deveined, tails on or off (your preference)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper freshly ground
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce low sodium recommended
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste, optional
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds toasted

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Grill or Large Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Method
 

Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined. This is your honey garlic sauce.
Marinate the Shrimp
  1. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a separate bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, tossing gently to coat.
  2. Pour half of the prepared honey garlic sauce over the shrimp. Toss to ensure all shrimp are coated evenly. Reserve the other half of the sauce for basting and serving.
  3. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. Do not marinate for too long as the acidity can start to "cook" the shrimp.
Prepare for Cooking
  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use to prevent burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, ensuring they are not packed too tightly.
Cook the Honey Garlic Shrimp
  1. Preheat your grill or a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, basting with some of the reserved honey garlic sauce during the last minute of cooking, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp cook very quickly.
  3. Remove the cooked shrimp skewers from the heat.
Serve
  1. Arrange the cooked honey garlic shrimp skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining reserved honey garlic sauce.
  2. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.

Notes

Storage: Leftover honey garlic shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid making the shrimp rubbery.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. For a milder flavor, omit them entirely.
Serving Suggestions: These skewers are fantastic over a bed of jasmine rice, with stir-fried vegetables, or as a vibrant appetizer.