Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

My family and I are always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious meals, especially during the warmer months when firing up the grill becomes a weekly ritual. This Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewer recipe has become an absolute staple in our summer rotation. From the moment the sweet aroma of honey and garlic hits the air as these skewers sizzle on the grill, you know you’re in for a treat. The shrimp are incredibly juicy and tender, infused with a vibrant marinade that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from seafood, devoured these skewers and asked for seconds! Whether we’re having a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining friends on the patio, these Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are always a crowd-pleaser. They are incredibly versatile, pairing well with so many sides, and they are so simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy evenings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it all summer long, just like we do!

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

• Shrimp: 2 pounds of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp will work beautifully. Opt for shrimp that are uniform in size for even cooking on the skewers.
• Honey: ½ cup of honey. Adds a natural sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze on the shrimp. Use your favorite type of honey, such as wildflower, clover, or orange blossom, for subtle flavor variations.
• Garlic: 6 cloves of garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic is crucial for that pungent and aromatic garlic flavor that complements the honey perfectly.
• Soy Sauce: ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Provides a savory umami depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness of the honey. Low-sodium is recommended to control the overall saltiness.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Helps to emulsify the marinade, adds richness, and prevents the shrimp from sticking to the grill or baking pan.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Brightens the flavors, adds acidity to cut through the sweetness, and tenderizes the shrimp slightly. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for its vibrant flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional). Adds a subtle kick of heat that enhances the sweet and savory notes. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit entirely if you prefer no heat.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon of salt, or to taste. Enhances the overall flavors and balances the sweetness. Adjust to your preference, considering the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground. Adds a touch of spice and complexity to the marinade. Freshly ground black pepper offers a more robust flavor.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: For grilling or baking. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning. Metal skewers are reusable and do not require soaking.

Instructions: Perfectly Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Follow these simple steps to create mouthwatering Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers that are bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Whether you choose to grill them for that smoky char or bake them for a convenient indoor option, the result will be equally delicious.

1. Prepare the Honey Garlic Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined and emulsified into a smooth marinade. The honey should be fully incorporated, and the garlic should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Take a moment to smell the marinade – the aroma of honey and garlic should already be enticing! Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add a touch more honey for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or lemon juice for acidity based on your preference.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Gently add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl containing the honey garlic marinade. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated in the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix and distribute the marinade, making sure every shrimp is generously covered. For optimal flavor infusion, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the shrimp and marinade to a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Marinating for longer than 2 hours is not recommended as the lemon juice can start to break down the shrimp, potentially affecting its texture. If you are short on time, even a 15-minute marinade will impart significant flavor. While the shrimp marinates, this is a good time to soak your wooden skewers in water if you are using them.
3. Prepare the Skewers: Once the shrimp has marinated, it’s time to thread them onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip back into the bowl (you can reserve a bit of the marinade to brush on the skewers during grilling or baking for extra flavor, but be sure to boil it first to ensure food safety if it has come into contact with raw shrimp). Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp for even cooking. Aim to place about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, depending on the size of your shrimp and skewers. Avoid overcrowding the skewers, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers (Outdoor Grill): Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred. Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook quickly. Brush the skewers with the reserved boiled marinade during the last minute of grilling for an extra layer of flavor and glaze (optional). The shrimp are cooked when they turn from translucent to opaque pink and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked for too long.
5. Bake the Skewers (Oven Option): If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet (optional, but it helps with air circulation and prevents the shrimp from steaming). Arrange the shrimp skewers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Similar to grilling, brush the skewers with the reserved boiled marinade during the last few minutes of baking for added flavor and glaze (optional). Check for doneness around 8 minutes, as baking times can vary depending on oven and shrimp size.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill or oven. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful shrimp. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions (optional) for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately while they are hot and juicy. These skewers are delicious on their own as an appetizer or as a main course alongside your favorite sides. See the “How to Serve” section below for fantastic serving suggestions!

Nutritional Information for Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

(Per serving, approximate, based on 4 servings)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (depending on serving size and specific ingredients used)
• Fat: 10-15 grams

Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific brands and measurements.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate in Minutes

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are incredibly quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The active preparation time, including making the marinade, prepping the shrimp, and threading them onto skewers, is approximately 15-20 minutes. Marinating time adds an additional 30 minutes to 2 hours, but this is mostly hands-off time. Cooking time is lightning fast – just 4-6 minutes on the grill or 8-10 minutes in the oven. In total, from start to finish, you can have these delectable Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers ready in under an hour, making them a fantastic option when you need a flavorful and satisfying meal in a hurry.

Serving Suggestions: Delicious Ways to Enjoy Your Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless delicious ways. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Classic Rice Bowl: Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Drizzle any extra marinade or sauce from the pan over the rice for added flavor. This creates a satisfying and complete meal.
• Fresh Salad: Pair the skewers with a vibrant and refreshing salad. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, a Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, or an Asian-inspired slaw with sesame dressing would complement the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grill some vegetables alongside the shrimp skewers for a complete grilled feast. Bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, corn on the cob, and onions are all excellent choices. The smoky char from the grill pairs perfectly with both the shrimp and vegetables.
• Pasta Perfection: Toss the cooked shrimp skewers with your favorite pasta. Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine would work well. Add some cherry tomatoes, spinach, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet elegant pasta dish.
• Tacos or Wraps: Flake the grilled shrimp and use them as a filling for tacos or wraps. Add your favorite taco toppings like shredded cabbage, salsa, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• Appetizer Platter: Serve the Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers as a delicious appetizer at your next party or gathering. Arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, yum yum sauce, or a simple aioli.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the shrimp in crisp lettuce cups. Butter lettuce or romaine lettuce leaves work well. Add some shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a refreshing and healthy meal.
• Grain Bowls: Create a vibrant and nutritious grain bowl by combining the Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers with cooked grains like farro or couscous, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a flavorful dressing.

Expert Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

To ensure your Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are absolutely perfect every time, follow these expert tips for maximum flavor and tenderness:

1. Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating is essential for infusing flavor, avoid marinating the shrimp for too long, especially with acidic marinades like this one containing lemon juice. Over-marinating can make the shrimp’s texture mushy. Stick to the recommended 30 minutes to 2 hours marinating time for optimal results.
2. Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before marinating, gently pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better to the shrimp and also promotes better browning and caramelization when grilling or baking.
3. Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling is crucial. This prevents them from catching fire and burning on the grill, ensuring your skewers remain intact and your shrimp are cooked safely.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers (or Grill/Pan): Leave a small space between each shrimp on the skewers and when placing skewers on the grill or baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling or baking, resulting in unevenly cooked shrimp and preventing that desirable char and flavor development.
5. Preheat Properly: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat or your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before cooking the shrimp skewers. Proper preheating is essential for searing the shrimp quickly and achieving that perfect texture.
6. Watch the Cooking Time Closely: Shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooking will result in tough, rubbery shrimp. Grill for just 2-3 minutes per side or bake for 8-10 minutes, until they are pink, opaque, and slightly firm. It’s better to slightly undercook than overcook shrimp, as they will continue to cook slightly off the heat.
7. Baste with Reserved Marinade (Boiled): For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful glaze, reserve a portion of the marinade before adding the raw shrimp. After the shrimp are cooked, bring the reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan and cook for a minute or two to ensure it’s safe to consume. Brush this boiled marinade over the cooked shrimp skewers just before serving.
8. Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked shrimp skewers to rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful shrimp. Resist the temptation to serve them immediately off the grill or out of the oven; a short rest makes a noticeable difference.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Here are answers to some common questions about making Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers, helping you troubleshoot and perfect your recipe:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly thaw them in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed. Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before adding them to the marinade.

Q2: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the marinade and marinate the shrimp up to 2 hours ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. You can also thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before grilling or baking. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp skewers just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Cooked shrimp are best enjoyed immediately.

Q3: I don’t have a grill. Can I cook these indoors?
A3: Yes, definitely! You can easily bake these Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers in the oven. Follow the baking instructions in the recipe for a delicious indoor alternative. You can also pan-sear them in a skillet or use an indoor grill pan.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the skewers?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables to your shrimp skewers. Bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and pineapple chunks are all great additions. Cut the vegetables into pieces that are similar in size to the shrimp so they cook evenly. Marinate the vegetables alongside the shrimp or toss them separately with a little olive oil and seasoning.

Q5: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A5: Yes, if you like a spicier kick, you can easily increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. Another option is to serve the cooked skewers with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or a chili garlic sauce.

Q6: What if I don’t have fresh garlic? Can I use garlic powder?
A6: While fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor in this recipe, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. If using garlic powder, use about 1-2 teaspoons in place of the 6 cloves of fresh garlic. However, the flavor will be less pungent and aromatic compared to fresh garlic.

Q7: Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey?
A7: You can substitute honey with other liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar. However, honey provides a unique flavor and helps create a nice glaze, so it is the preferred sweetener for this recipe. If using maple syrup or agave, the flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q8: How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill or baking pan?
A8: To prevent sticking, make sure to lightly oil your grill grates or baking sheet before cooking the shrimp skewers. You can use cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Also, ensuring the grill or baking pan is properly preheated helps to create a sear and prevent sticking. Using metal skewers can also help prevent sticking compared to wooden skewers in some cases.

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