Sesame shrimp is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors, it’s an irresistible meal that’s ideal for any occasion.

Shrimp has always been a popular ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. It’s quick to cook, versatile, and can be transformed into a variety of dishes, ranging from light and healthy to indulgent and rich.

One such dish that strikes a perfect balance between savory and sweet is Sesame Shrimp. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with the nutty richness of sesame seeds, creating a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Sesame Shrimp Recipe?

Quick and Easy to Prepare: One of the best things about sesame shrimp is that it’s incredibly quick to prepare. The shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, and the sesame glaze can be whipped up in no time. This makes it perfect for busy nights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients required for sesame shrimp are pantry staples that you likely already have at home. With just a few common ingredients like shrimp, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and sesame seeds, you can create a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated.

Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The toasted sesame seeds add a wonderful crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

Healthy and Light: Unlike many deep-fried shrimp recipes, sesame shrimp is light and healthy. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that’s packed with essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

Ingredients for Sesame Shrimp

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, with tails on or off)

2 tbsp sesame oil (for cooking)
2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup sesame seeds (toasted)

1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cleaning and prepping your shrimp. If they aren’t already peeled and deveined, do so and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help the shrimp cook evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). This will create a balanced, slightly sweet and tangy sauce that will coat the shrimp beautifully. Set the sauce aside.

Toast the Sesame Seeds
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent them from burning. Once toasted, remove the seeds from the pan and set them aside.
Cook the Shrimp
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the shrimp and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Glaze the Shrimp
Once the garlic is fragrant, pour the sauce over the shrimp. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly with the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a glossy glaze.
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the sesame shrimp to a serving dish and sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, vegetables, or a simple salad.

Variations of Sesame Shrimp

Spicy Sesame Shrimp: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also drizzle some sriracha or chili garlic sauce over the shrimp after cooking for an extra kick.

Sesame Shrimp Stir-Fry: For a complete meal, toss your sesame shrimp with stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. The vegetables will absorb the sauce, making for a more filling dish.

Crispy Sesame Shrimp: For an extra crispy texture, you can lightly bread the shrimp before cooking them. Dip the shrimp in a mixture of flour and cornstarch, then fry them for a crispy coating before glazing them with the sesame sauce.

How to Serve Sesame Shrimp

Sesame shrimp is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great serving ideas:

With Steamed Rice
Serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.

With Noodles
For a different twist, serve sesame shrimp with a side of cooked noodles, such as soba, udon, or egg noodles. Toss the noodles with a little sesame oil and soy sauce for extra flavor.
On a Salad
Serve the sesame shrimp on top of a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and avocado. The crunch of the salad paired with the succulent shrimp creates a delicious contrast.
With Vegetables
If you prefer a lighter side, pair the shrimp with stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini. These veggies will balance the richness of the shrimp and provide a nutritious addition to the meal.