Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze

Name: Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love this Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze recipe! The combination of fresh strawberries and a kick of chili creates a vibrant balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite of shrimp is perfectly coated with this glossy glaze, making it both visually stunning and delicious. As the sweet and spicy flavors meld together, it transports me to a summer barbecue, even if it's just a casual weeknight dinner. Trust me, this dish will elevate your meal and impress your guests with its unique flavor profile!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:49:13.177Z

When I first experimented with this Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze, I was unsure how the flavors would meld. However, the moment I took my first bite, I was hooked! The freshness of the strawberries complements the shrimp perfectly while the chili adds an unexpected warmth that catches you off guard in the best way. I recommend using ripe strawberries to enhance the sweetness and make the glaze even more vibrant.

One unique tip I discovered is to let the glaze sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully, creating an even more delicious sauce that clings to the shrimp. I always make extra glaze to drizzle over rice or salad—it’s that good!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and spicy flavor combination that's unforgettable.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Impressive presentation for gathering or special occasions.

      

Understanding the Glaze

The strawberry chili glaze is the star of this dish, and each ingredient plays a crucial role. The strawberries provide a natural sweetness and a beautiful color that makes the dish pop visually. The chili paste adds heat, which you can easily adjust based on your preference; I recommend starting with one tablespoon and tasting the glaze before adding more. This balance of sweet and spicy is what truly elevates the shrimp, creating a mouthwatering experience.

In addition to flavor, texture is also vital. When blended, the strawberries create a glossy glaze that clings perfectly to the shrimp, giving each bite a delightful mouthfeel. I like to blend the ingredients until smooth, but leaving a few small strawberry pieces can add a rustic touch and extra flavor bursts. Remember that a well-balanced glaze is not just about sweetness; the acidity from the lime juice brightens the flavors and helps cut through the richness of the shrimp.

Cooking the Shrimp Perfectly

When cooking shrimp, timing is crucial to ensure they are cooked to perfection. Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding the olive oil. The oil should shimmer slightly before you introduce the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for that vibrant pink color and that they curl into a natural C shape, indicators that they are ready. If shrimp are overcooked, they can become rubbery. I suggest checking them just as they turn pink to avoid this.

Moreover, seasoning shrimp while they cook is essential for flavor. A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper elevates the taste, but you can also experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, consider adding minced garlic in the last minute of cooking the shrimp instead of blending it in the glaze. This technique showcases the garlic more effectively and adds an aromatic touch to the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Glaze and Shrimp:

Ingredients for Shrimp and Glaze

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

These are all you need for this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze:

Prepare the Glaze

In a blender, combine strawberries, soy sauce, honey, chili paste, lime juice, and garlic. Blend until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Once shrimp are cooked, add the strawberry glaze to the skillet and toss well to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Serve immediately!

Enjoy your flavorful shrimp dish!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try serving this dish over a bed of arugula for a peppery contrast to the sweetness of the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light and fresh option, consider serving it over a bed of arugula or mixed greens. The peppery notes of the greens complement the sweetness of the glaze. Alternatively, fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa provides a wonderful base that absorbs any extra glaze, ensuring no flavors go to waste.

To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing the dish with fresh mint or basil leaves, which add both color and an herbal note that brightens the overall flavor. For a complete meal, serve this dish alongside grilled vegetables or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the shrimp.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for a gathering, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; the flavors will deepen, resulting in an even more delicious outcome. When you're ready to cook, simply reheat the glaze in a small saucepan before adding it to the grilled or sautéed shrimp to bring it back to life.

As for the shrimp, it's best to cook them fresh to maintain their texture. However, you can clean, peel, and devein shrimp a few hours ahead. Keeping them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook makes the meal preparation seamless. Just make sure to pat them dry before cooking for a better sear and enhanced flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for chili paste?

You can use sriracha or any hot sauce you prefer. Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be suitable for gluten-free diets.