Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp

I love making this recipe when I want something comforting without overcomplicating dinner. It is one of those reliable favorites I come back to because the flavors always deliver. If you cook along with me, you will have a delicious result with simple, practical steps.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp cold water
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and optional sesame oil. In a separate tiny bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry; set aside.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the honey garlic sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to whisk and simmer for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently with tongs to coat the shrimp completely in the sticky honey garlic glaze.
6. Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving immediately. Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables.