Looking for a quick and luxurious seafood dish that delivers bold flavor in under 30 minutes? This Buttered Garlic Shrimps with Sweet and Savory Sauce recipe is your answer. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in golden butter and garlic, then glazed in a rich sauce made from soy, honey, and lemon for a mouthwatering fusion of sweet, salty, and umami.
Whether served over rice, pasta, or fresh greens, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or elegant entertaining.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Shrimp:
- 500g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil (optional, for high heat sautéing)
For the Sweet and Savory Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or calamansi juice
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, oyster sauce (if using), and chili flakes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden (about 1 minute). Be careful not to burn.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- Increase heat to medium-high.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.
- Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
- Pour prepared sauce into the same skillet and simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Simmer for 1 more minute, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice for a comforting Filipino-style meal.
- Toss with angel hair pasta for a quick seafood pasta.
- Pair with sautéed green beans or bok choy for a lighter, low-carb option.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving for extra brightness.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx. 1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 275 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Key Nutritional Notes
- Shrimp are high in lean protein and low in calories.
- Butter adds richness but also increases saturated fat—use less or substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Honey and soy sauce give this dish flavor depth but also contribute to sugar and sodium content—use low-sodium options or natural sweeteners if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook shrimp — they cook quickly and turn rubbery if left on the heat too long.
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
- Add chili oil or more chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Make it a one-pan meal by adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Thai Version: Add a dash of fish sauce and chopped red chilies.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut cream or evaporated milk at the end.
- Pineapple Punch: Add crushed pineapple to the sauce for a tropical spin.
- Ginger Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger with the garlic for warmth and zing.
This Buttered Garlic Shrimps with Sweet and Savory Sauce recipe is the perfect mix of comfort and sophistication. It’s simple enough for a quick dinner but impressive enough for guests. With just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful shrimp dish that’ll make its way into your regular rotation.