Honey Glazed Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory kick of soy sauce and garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer barbecue. It's simple, flavorful, and sure to impress your family and friends.
Shrimp is the star of the show, offering a mild, sweet taste and a firm texture that holds up beautifully on the grill. Honey brings a natural sweetness that caramelizes nicely, giving a rich glaze. Soy sauce adds a savory depth, balancing the sweetness with its salty, umami notes. Garlic, minced finely, infuses the marinade with a pungent, aromatic flavor. Olive oil helps meld all the flavors together while aiding in the grilling process. Ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes introduce a gentle heat, countering the sweetness of the honey. Lime wedges are the perfect finishing touch, providing a bright, tangy contrast and enhancing the shrimp's natural flavors.
Pair these Honey Glazed Grilled Shrimp with a refreshing cucumber salad or a light quinoa dish. They also work well as a topping for a crisp, summer salad. For drinks, a chilled white wine or a light, citrusy cocktail complements the flavors beautifully.
Start by whisking together the marinade ingredients in a bowl: combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well mixed. This will be your flavor-packed base. Once the marinade is ready, add the shrimp, ensuring they're entirely coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes — this gives the shrimp time to soak up all those delicious flavors.
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give the shrimp a nice char without overcooking them. Once the grill is ready, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each one to ensure even cooking.
Place the skewers on the grill and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. You'll know they're ready when they turn opaque and develop a slight char. Be sure not to overcook them; shrimp can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in a flash. Once done, remove them from the grill and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.