Description
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 small pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp honey
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss the pineapple chunks with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15
minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and caramelized.
While the pineapple roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and
cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Add the garlic, honey, soy sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes to the pan with the shrimp. Stir to coat the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes,
allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Remove the shrimp from the heat and assemble the bowls: add a base of rice or quinoa, top with roasted pineapple and honey garlic shrimp.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 300 per bowl Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp and Pineapple Bowls.
- Prep Ingredients: Ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined. Cut pineapple into uniform 1-inch chunks. Mince garlic and chop cilantro.
- Roast Pineapple: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pineapple with 1 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a parchment-lined sheet for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized.
- Cook Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook shrimp in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp to a plate.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 1 minute.
- Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until the sauce glazes the shrimp.
- Assemble: Divide cooked rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top with roasted pineapple and glazed shrimp. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile bowl can be customized for any meal.
- For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp and pineapple over cauliflower rice or a bed of leafy greens.
- Add extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for more fiber and color.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.
- Pair with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold glass of iced green tea.
How-to Summary
In summary: Roast pineapple chunks at 400°F for 15 minutes. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. Create a quick sauce with garlic, honey, soy sauce, and ginger in the same pan, then toss the shrimp in it. Serve shrimp and pineapple over a grain base and garnish with cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them very dry before cooking to ensure proper searing and to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked? Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” and become rubbery.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prep components ahead. Roast the pineapple and store it separately. Cook the shrimp and sauce just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for soy sauce? Use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter, soy-free alternative.
Is the pineapple essential? The roasted pineapple adds crucial sweetness and acidity that balances the savory sauce. If necessary, you could use mango or peaches, but pineapple is highly recommended.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once steams them instead of searing them. Cook in batches if needed.
- Overcooking the Garlic: Adding garlic to a very hot pan will cause it to burn and taste bitter. Add it off direct heat or after reducing the temperature.
- Skipping the Pineapple Roast: Roasting caramelizes the pineapple’s sugars, adding depth. Raw pineapple won’t provide the same flavor complexity.
- Not Tasting the Sauce: Always taste the sauce before adding the shrimp back in. Adjust sweetness (honey) or saltiness (soy sauce) to your preference.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Shrimp and Pineapple Bowl is a perfect weeknight meal that feels gourmet. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with minimal prep time makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home in about 30 minutes. Don’t forget to experiment with the serving suggestions to make it your own. Enjoy this delicious, balanced, and healthy meal!
