Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This One-Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp Quinoa is just what you need! It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll enjoy every bite of tender shrimp and fluffy quinoa. Plus, it all cooks in one pan, which means less clean-up! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will impress your family and friends. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 4 tablespoons honey
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (choose red, yellow, or orange for the best color)
– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Equipment Needed
– Large skillet or sauté pan
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Lid for the skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Aromatics
Start by heating extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté these for 1-2 minutes. Stir often to keep them from burning. You want them fragrant and golden.
Cooking the Shrimp
Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season the shrimp with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Toasting the Quinoa
In the same skillet, add the thoroughly rinsed quinoa. Toast it over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir continuously until the quinoa turns lightly golden and aromatic. This step adds a nice nutty flavor.
Adding Liquids and Vegetables
Now, carefully pour in low-sodium vegetable broth, honey, and soy sauce. Stir everything well to combine. Next, fold in diced bell peppers and snap peas. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmering the Mixture
Once it begins to simmer, cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This allows the quinoa to absorb all the liquid and become fluffy.
Combining Ingredients
After the quinoa has cooked, remove the lid. Gently fold the sautéed shrimp back into the skillet. Stir everything together, letting the shrimp warm through for an additional 2 minutes. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Best Shrimp
Pick fresh shrimp for the best taste. Look for shrimp that are firm and shiny. The shells should be clean, and there should be no strong smell. Frozen shrimp work well too. Just thaw them slowly in the fridge overnight. This keeps their texture nice.
Cooking Perfect Quinoa
Rinse your quinoa well. This removes a bitter coating called saponin. Use two cups of low-sodium vegetable broth for better flavor. Toasting the quinoa in the pan first gives it a nutty taste. Make sure to cover the skillet while it simmers. This helps the quinoa absorb the broth fully.
Variations for Flavor Enhancement
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweet note. Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for freshness. For a zesty kick, a squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish.

Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm. Cube the tofu and sauté it until golden. This adds a nice texture. You can also try using scallops for a seafood twist.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to change the veggies based on your taste. Zucchini and carrots add color and crunch. Broccoli or asparagus can also work well. Just cut them into small pieces for even cooking. Adding corn can bring a sweet touch to the dish. Be creative and use what you have on hand!
Spice Level Adjustments
To add heat, mix in red pepper flakes or sriracha. Start with a small amount to test the spice. Increase it to your liking. For a milder dish, skip the spicy elements. You can also balance it with more honey for sweetness. Adjusting spice levels can make each meal unique.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover One-Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp Quinoa in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This keeps the shrimp and quinoa tasty.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth to a pan and heat over low. Stir often until hot. Enjoy your meal as if it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and quinoa as usual. Store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, just reheat gently in a pan.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
You can tell shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. This takes about 2-3 minutes. They should curl into a C shape. If they are still gray or clear, keep cooking.
What can I use instead of quinoa?
If you don’t have quinoa, you can use rice or couscous. Both options cook well and absorb flavors. Adjust cooking times based on the grain you choose.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be gluten-free. Use tamari instead of soy sauce. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes or chili sauce. You can also use spicy bell peppers. Adjust the amount to fit your taste.
This post covered all you need to make a tasty shrimp and quinoa dish. We talked about the key ingredients and cooking steps. I shared tips for cooking shrimp and quinoa perfectly. You can adjust flavors with different proteins and veggies. For storage, I gave easy guidelines for refrigerating and freezing.
Enjoy experimenting with this recipe. It’s simple, fun, and flavorful. You’ll impress anyone who tries it.

