Ready in: 20 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: Up to 2 days in the refrigerator
Quick Answer
This Easy Teriyaki Shrimp recipe combines shrimp with a quick homemade teriyaki sauce for a deliciously savory and sweet dish, perfect for any weeknight or holiday gathering.
Living in New York City, I've found that the cold seasons usher in inviting aromas and hearty meals. As Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, there's a certain warmth that I crave, drawing me to comforting dishes with a twist. One such delightful option is this Easy Teriyaki Shrimp. It strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, and it is quick enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests over the holidays.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Strikes a delightful balance between savory and sweet.
- Uses fresh, quality ingredients for an impressive flavor.
- Versatile enough for holiday gatherings or cozy family meals.
- Easy to customize by adding your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to create this delicious dish:
Shrimp
- 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger, fresh
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped
How to Make Easy Teriyaki Shrimp (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to whip up a mouthwatering teriyaki shrimp dish!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, I added the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer before introducing the minced garlic and ginger. The kitchen filled with that comforting, nutty aroma as the garlic turned golden and fragrant-this is where the magic begins.
Step 2: Prep the Shrimp
As I tossed in the shrimp, I could hear that familiar sizzle-like a warm welcome. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they take on a lovely pink hue.
Step 3: Create the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, I whisked together the soy sauce and honey, followed by the cornstarch, ensuring there were no lumps. Pouring this glossy mixture over the shrimp enveloped them in a sweet, savory coat. As it cooked, I noticed the sauce thickening nicely, clinging to each piece.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Let everything simmer for an additional few minutes, ensuring the shrimp is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 120°F is perfect) and the sauce has reached that stunning, glossy finish.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transferring the teriyaki shrimp to a serving platter, I sprinkled sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top, breathing in the sweet and savory fragrance. This dish is truly a feast for the eyes and the palate!
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Watch them closely, or you'll end up with rubbery bites.
- Using Regular Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of your dish better.
- Not Thinning the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick at any point, feel free to add a splash of water to loosen it while cooking.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Marinate the Shrimp: For an additional depth of flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas along with the shrimp for a healthier dish packed with nutrition.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or brown sugar to your taste.
Variations:
- Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
- Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Incorporate a splash of rice vinegar for acidity.
How to Serve:
- Pair with fluffy white rice for a classic combination.
- Serve alongside a colorful stir-fried vegetable medley.
- Consider steamed broccoli or stir-fried snow peas for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Marinate the shrimp in the teriyaki sauce for up to 30 minutes before cooking for added flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the shrimp's tenderness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp does not freeze well when cooked.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Cooking this Easy Teriyaki Shrimp was a delightful reminder of how a few simple ingredients can create a dish that's bursting with flavor. I found that adjusting the sweetness can tailor the dish to suit various palates, making it versatile enough for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 20g protein · 20g carbs · 8g fat
Recipe by:
Easy Teriyaki Shrimp for Quick Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until pink.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch. Pour over shrimp and stir to coat, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Let simmer for a few minutes until shrimp are fully cooked. Serve with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
FAQs
1. 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 to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
2. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the shrimp's tenderness.
3. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for an added kick of heat.
4. Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure your protein is heated through and well-coated in the sauce.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger skillet to allow the shrimp to cook evenly and avoid overcrowding the pan.
