Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Name: Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers, especially during warm evenings when we can grill outside. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a flavor profile that's irresistible, and the shrimp cook up quickly, making this dish perfect for a last-minute get-together. Plus, the vibrant colors of the skewers always impress our guests. These skewers are versatile, and I often serve them with a side of grilled vegetables or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:33:30.964Z

When I first tried making Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they were. The marinade, which combines honey, garlic, and a hint of soy sauce, not only flavors the shrimp but also caramelizes beautifully on the grill. I discovered that soaking the skewers in water prevents them from burning, ensuring a perfect cook every time.

The first time I served them at a barbecue, they disappeared in minutes! I recommend adding a squeeze of lime before serving to elevate the flavors even further. It’s a dish that always gets rave reviews, and I love sharing it with friends and family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice taste
Great for outdoor grilling or indoor broiling

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is the soul of Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers, and it's essential not to rush this step. Combining honey and soy sauce creates a tenderizing effect on the shrimp while adding that wonderful balance of sweet and savory. Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances their flavor, but if time permits, marinating for up to an hour will deepen that taste even further. Just be cautious not to exceed two hours, as the acid can begin to cook the shrimp, leading to an undesirable texture.

When making your marinade, consider using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced options for a more robust flavor. Fresh garlic contributes a pungent aroma and a sharper taste that elevates the skewers. If you're looking to spice things up, a dash of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha can add a delightful heat that complements the sweetness. With these tweaks, you can tailor the marinade to suit your personal preferences.

Perfecting the Grill Technique

Grilling the shrimp skewers is where the real magic happens. Preheat your grill to medium-high, reaching about 400-450°F. This high heat ensures the shrimp cook quickly, maintaining their juiciness while developing that coveted grill char. If you’re grilling indoors with a broiler, set it to high, keeping the skewers about 6 inches from the heat source for optimal results. Watch for visual cues: the shrimp should turn pink and opaque, usually taking just 2-3 minutes per side.

For the best outcome, avoid overcrowding the grill. Give the skewers space to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’re thoroughly soaked to prevent burning. Alternatively, reusable metal skewers are fantastic as they can withstand higher heat without any soaking. Remember, timing is crucial; overcooking will make the shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them while grilling.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Skewers

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)

Mix the marinade well and let the shrimp soak for at least 15 minutes before grilling.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.

Skewer the Shrimp

Once marinated, thread the shrimp onto the soaked skewers. You can alternate with bell peppers or onions for added flavor.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and squeeze fresh lime juice over them before serving. Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers!

These skewers are best served hot off the grill with a side of your choice.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a touch of chili flakes to the marinade for a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are wonderfully versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Pair them with a side of grilled vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for a complete meal that showcases summer's bounty. For a heartier option, serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the delicious marinade drippings. You could also offer them with a light salad featuring mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette to contrast the sweetness of the shrimp.

If you're looking to impress guests, consider creating a vibrant platter with colorful accompaniments such as avocado slices and fresh herbs. A drizzle of additional honey or a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving can elevate the presentation. For dipping, a simple garlic aioli or a spicy mayo blends perfectly with the flavors of the skewers, providing an extra layer of taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the shrimp skewers ahead of time, making them a perfect choice for meal prep or entertaining. Marinate the shrimp in the honey garlic mixture and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before grilling. This ensures that the shrimp maintain their flavor and texture. If you plan to serve them later, consider threading the shrimp onto the skewers a few hours prior; just cover them tightly and keep them chilled.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply place the skewers under a broiler for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, if you’re freezing them, take care to freeze them on the skewers to maintain the shape and flavor. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then grill briefly for a delicious meal that's ready in minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with the skewers?

They pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

For the best flavor, marinate for 15-30 minutes. Do not exceed 1 hour.

→ Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with chicken or tofu as well.