Honey Garlic Shrimp Meal Prep (Under 350 Calories!)

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls are a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and lightly spicy flavors, making them a go-to for healthy meal prep or a fast weeknight dinner. Juicy, tender shrimp are coated in a honey garlic sauce that clings to every bite, while nutty brown rice forms a hearty base. Crisp-tender sugar snap peas, finished with a touch of fresh lemon zest, provide a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp.

This recipe is not just flavorful; it’s designed for convenience. With a few simple steps, you can prepare a complete, nutritionally balanced meal that stores beautifully for the week ahead. Whether you’re looking to simplify lunches, elevate dinner, or add more protein and vegetables to your diet, these bowls deliver on flavor, texture, and healthfulness.

The combination of honey, garlic, and ginger creates a harmonious sauce that elevates ordinary shrimp into a vibrant, satisfying main course. Meanwhile, brown rice adds fiber and subtle nuttiness, and lemon sugar snap peas contribute crispness, bright color, and vitamin-rich nutrition. With balanced macronutrients and a high protein content, these bowls are perfect for anyone following a healthy lifestyle or trying to eat more wholesome, home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it balances taste, nutrition, and convenience, making it ideal for both meal prep and immediate enjoyment.

Flavor Layering

• Honey and soy sauce create a sweet-salty base that enhances shrimp’s natural flavor.

• Garlic and ginger add warmth, depth, and a subtle kick.

• Lemon zest brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the sauce and balancing flavors.

• Crushed red pepper flakes provide gentle heat for complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Together, these ingredients create a multidimensional taste profile that keeps each bite exciting and satisfying.

Technique

• Sautéing shrimp quickly over medium-high heat ensures they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so timing is essential.

• Cooking brown rice properly gives the base a nutty, slightly chewy texture that complements the shrimp and vegetables. Using an Instant Pot or stovetop method gives flexibility depending on your kitchen setup.

• Sautéing snap peas briefly keeps them crisp-tender, preserving their bright color and fresh flavor.

Cooking Logic

The recipe follows a logical sequence for maximum efficiency:

1. Cook rice first so it has time to fluff and cool slightly for assembly.

2. Prepare the shrimp with sauce for flavor absorption.

3. Cook vegetables last for maximum crunch and freshness.

4. Assemble bowls to combine flavors while retaining optimal texture.

This workflow ensures every component is at its best when served, whether eating immediately or prepping meals for the week.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 meals
Category: Meal Prep / Dinner / Healthy
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Fusion

Ingredient Breakdown

Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal because they cook quickly and hold up well in sauces. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and improve eating ease.

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce provides umami flavor without excess salt.

• Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances garlic, ginger, and red pepper heat.

• Garlic & Ginger: Fresh aromatics create depth and warmth, elevating the dish’s overall flavor profile.

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Mild heat enhances the sweetness of the honey without overpowering.

• Rice Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the sauce.

• Olive Oil: Lightly coats the shrimp, preventing sticking and aiding in even cooking.

Brown Rice

• Brown Rice: A hearty, nutty base providing complex carbohydrates, fiber, and a subtle chewiness that contrasts with tender shrimp.

• Water: Proper rice-to-water ratio ensures fluffy, perfectly cooked grains.

Lemon Sugar Snap Peas

• Sugar Snap Peas: Crisp, sweet, and nutrient-rich, they provide color and crunch.

• Olive Oil: Light sautéing preserves crispness while adding a subtle richness.

• Lemon Zest: Brightens the dish, adding fresh citrus notes that complement shrimp and rice.

• Sea Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances natural flavors and seasoning balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice

• Instant Pot: Combine 1½ cups uncooked brown rice and 2 cups water. Seal the lid and cook on the Rice setting until tender. Fluff with a fork.

• Stovetop: Combine rice and water in a covered pot over medium heat. Simmer for 25–30 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Properly cooked rice forms the base for each bowl, absorbing flavors from the shrimp sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Garlic Shrimp

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon minced ginger, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper, and 1 teaspoon rice vinegar.

2. Heat ½ teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

4. Pour in the sauce, cook another 2–3 minutes until shrimp are fully coated.

Step 3: Cook the Lemon Sugar Snap Peas

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add 1 lb sugar snap peas, tossing for 2 minutes.

3. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon lemon zest, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.

4. Cook another 3–5 minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide brown rice evenly among 4 bowls or meal prep containers.

2. Add snap peas to one side.

3. Top rice with honey garlic shrimp and remaining sauce.

Step 5: Reheating (For Meal Prep)

• Microwave sealed containers for 1½–2 minutes or until heated through before serving. Avoid overcooking to maintain shrimp tenderness.

Texture and Flavor Profile

• Shrimp: Tender, juicy, slightly sticky from honey garlic sauce.

• Rice: Nutty, chewy, and mildly flavored to soak up sauce.

• Snap Peas: Crisp, bright, and lightly citrusy.

• Overall Bite: Balanced sweet, savory, and mildly spicy combination with diverse textures in every forkful.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for maximum flavor.

• Don’t overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and continue to firm after removing from heat.

• Slice lemon zest finely to avoid bitterness.

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control overall sodium content.

• Brown rice can be cooked in advance and kept refrigerated for faster assembly.

Variations

1. Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

2. Low-Carb Version: Replace brown rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa.

3. Vegetarian Version: Substitute shrimp with marinated tofu or tempeh.

4. Gluten-Free Version: Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with sesame seeds or scallions for extra flavor and texture.

• Serve with steamed broccoli, bok choy, or baby spinach for added nutrition.

• Pair with a light soup or salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Store shrimp, rice, and snap peas separately for up to 4 days.

• Reheat gently in the microwave to prevent shrimp from overcooking.

• Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Ideal for meal prep, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners.

Nutrition Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 317 kcal

• Protein: 29 g

• Carbohydrates: 57 g

• Fat: 6 g

• Saturated Fat: 1 g

• Fiber: 7 g

• Sugar: 6 g

• Sodium: 598 mg

• Vitamin A: 1,308 IU

• Vitamin C: 69 mg

• Calcium: 83 mg

• Iron: 4 mg

Balanced for high protein, moderate carbs, and low fat, this bowl provides a nutrient-dense meal that supports energy, muscle recovery, and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I prep this for the week?
Absolutely. Store components separately for optimal texture. Assemble just before eating.

Is this dish spicy?
Mild by default. Adjust red pepper flakes or add sriracha for more heat.

Can I make it vegan?
Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh, and substitute honey with maple syrup.

Can I substitute rice?
Brown rice is preferred for fiber, but quinoa, white rice, or cauliflower rice work well.

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls combine flavor, nutrition, and convenience in one beautiful, balanced meal. Sweet, garlicky shrimp paired with nutty brown rice and crisp lemon snap peas creates a bowl that is as satisfying as it is colorful. Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or simply a healthy, high-protein meal, these bowls are versatile, quick, and delicious.

With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and fully customizable options, this recipe will become a staple for anyone looking for quick, healthy, and flavorful meals that are easy to prepare and fun to eat.

Honey Garlic Shrimp

Ava Thompson

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 39 minutes mins

Course Meal Prep

Cuisine Asian-Inspired

Servings 4

Calories 317 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Honey Garlic Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon olive oil
• Brown Rice:
• 1½ cups uncooked brown rice
• 2 cups water
• Lemon Sugar Snap Peas:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb fresh sugar snap peas
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Cook the Brown Rice:
• Combine brown rice and water in an Instant Pot or deep saucepan.
• Instant Pot: Seal the lid and cook on the Rice setting until tender. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
• Stovetop: Simmer in a covered pot over medium heat for 25–30 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
• Prepare the Honey Garlic Shrimp:
• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, crushed red pepper, and rice vinegar. Set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
• Pour in the sauce and cook for another 2–3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked and coated. Set aside to cool slightly.
• Cook the Lemon Sugar Snap Peas:
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sugar snap peas and toss for 2 minutes.
• Sprinkle with lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper. Cook another 3–5 minutes until crisp-tender.
• Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls:
• Divide brown rice evenly among four meal prep containers.
• Add sugar snap peas to one side and top the rice with honey garlic shrimp and sauce.
• Seal containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating:
• Microwave sealed containers for 1½–2 minutes or until heated through before serving.

Notes

This meal prep recipe is a high-protein, low-fat, and flavorful option that’s perfect for busy weekdays. The sweet and spicy shrimp pairs perfectly with nutty brown rice and bright lemon snap peas.