Introduction
Honey Lime Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the zesty brightness of lime, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe from Damn Delicious is not only super tasty but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The shrimp is cooked to perfection in a garlicky, rich sauce that will have everyone reaching for more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed and divided
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium shallot, minced
– 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– ⅓ cup vegetable or chicken stock
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 teaspoons lime zest
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Prep Time
The prep time for this delectable dish is approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to get everything ready for cooking effortlessly.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is about 10 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 20 minutes. This recipe yields servings for 4 people, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or a cozy dinner with friends. Enjoy your delicious Honey Lime Shrimp right away!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt Butter
Melt 6 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and shallot to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, stir in the chili powder and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Cook Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the vegetable or chicken stock, honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, and lime zest. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate into the sauce.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and the remaining 2 tablespoons of cubed butter until melted and well combined.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Honey Lime Shrimp immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Cooking Time
This dish can be prepared and ready to serve in just 20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
The Honey Lime Shrimp pairs well with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storing Leftovers
If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Cook techniques
1. Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. In this recipe, the garlic and shallot are sautéed until fragrant, which helps to release their flavors.
2. Browning
Browning refers to the process of cooking food until it develops a golden-brown crust. This technique is applied when the aromatics are sautéed, creating a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
3. Deglazing
Deglazing is the technique of adding liquid to a hot pan to loosen browned bits of food stuck to the bottom. In this recipe, the stock is used to deglaze the skillet, incorporating those flavorful bits into the sauce.
4. Emulsifying
Emulsifying involves mixing ingredients that typically do not combine, like butter and liquids, to create a smooth sauce. Stirring in the remaining butter at the end of cooking helps to create a rich and cohesive sauce for the shrimp.
5. Garnishing
Garnishing is the finishing touch that elevates a dish. Chopped cilantro is added just before serving, providing a fresh, vibrant color and flavor contrast to the sweet and tangy shrimp.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What can I substitute for honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, agave nectar or maple syrup can work, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I use lime juice from a bottle?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor; however, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more chili powder, incorporate red pepper flakes, or serve it with hot sauce for an extra kick.
What sides go well with Honey Lime Shrimp?
This dish pairs nicely with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
This Honey Lime Shrimp recipe is not only quick and easy, taking just 20 minutes, but it also offers a delightful medley of flavors – sweet, tangy, and garlicky. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with various side dishes and is sure to impress anyone at your dining table.
Honey Lime Chicken
Swap shrimp for chicken breast yet keep the same honey-lime flavor profile. Marinate the chicken in honey, lime juice, and spices before grilling or sautéing for a juicy and flavorful dish.
Spicy Honey Lime Tofu
For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Marinate the tofu cubes in the honey lime sauce and then pan-fry until crispy for a satisfying dish.
Honey Lime Salmon
Use salmon fillets instead of shrimp for a rich and tender seafood alternative. The honey-lime sauce complements the salmon beautifully, especially when broiled.
Honey Lime Vegetables
Create a refreshing vegetable stir-fry with bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas tossed in the honey lime sauce. This option is not only colorful but also healthy and satisfying.
Honey Lime Quinoa Salad
Combine cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, and diced avocado, drizzled with honey lime dressing for a nutritious and filling salad.
Honey Lime Shrimp Tacos
Serve the honey lime shrimp in warm tortillas topped with slaw and extra lime wedges for a delightful taco night treat.
