Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli

Name: Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

I love making Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli because it’s a quick and delicious dinner option that showcases fresh ingredients. The succulent shrimp, coated in a sweet and savory garlic sauce, pairs perfectly with vibrant broccoli. In just 30 minutes, I can have a light yet satisfying meal on the table, ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also customizable, allowing me to switch up the vegetables or add more spice to suit my taste.

Created by

The Chefgeorgefoods Team

Last updated on 2026-02-06T15:10:27.268Z

When I first tried Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli, I was instantly hooked. The balance of honey and garlic creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory, making it irresistible. I experimented with the sauce by adding a bit of soy sauce and red pepper flakes, giving it a delightful umami kick and a hint of heat.

This dish is perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence but flavor is a must. Using frozen shrimp can save even more time, and steaming the broccoli retains its bright color and crunch, enhancing the overall dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

A delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare in 30 minutes
Healthy dish packed with protein and veggies

Perfecting Your Shrimp

When preparing shrimp for this dish, it’s crucial to choose large or jumbo shrimp to ensure they remain tender during cooking. Smaller shrimp can easily overcook and become rubbery. Look for shrimp that are slightly translucent and have a fresh ocean scent. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water for about 10 minutes, then pat dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture before marinating.

The marinade of honey, garlic, and soy sauce not only adds flavor but also helps the shrimp caramelize nicely while cooking. For a touch of heat, consider adding a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade, which can enhance the overall flavor profile and complement the sweetness of the honey.

Broccoli: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Broccoli brings a wealth of nutrients to this dish, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. For the best texture, ensure the florets are similar in size to allow for even cooking. As you sauté the broccoli, watch for a vibrant green color and slight tenderness – this usually takes about 5 minutes at medium heat. If you prefer a bit more crunch, reduce the cooking time by a minute or two.

For additional flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the broccoli just before serving. This brightens the dish and creates a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp. Alternatively, throwing in thinly sliced red bell pepper or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking can introduce more color and crunch to your meal.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Broccoli

2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat well. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Broccoli

In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add olive oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Return the broccoli to the pan with the shrimp, toss everything together, and cook for an additional minute. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce or serve with a splash of lime juice for brightness.

Make-Ahead Tips

For busy weeknights, you can marinate the shrimp in advance. Mix the marinade and coat the shrimp up to 24 hours ahead; just store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen, though be careful not to marinate too long, as the acidity from the soy can start to alter the shrimp's texture.

Cooked shrimp can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, steam them gently or warm them in a pan over low heat to prevent them from overcooking and becoming tough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, test out cauliflower rice or serve alongside zucchini noodles. Many people also enjoy a sprinkle of chopped green onions or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating different vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even bok choy into the stir-fry. This not only adds variety but also allows you to highlight seasonal produce. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as softer vegetables will require less time than broccoli.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great! Just be sure to thaw them properly before marinating.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, both of which are gluten-free.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.