There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sound of seafood sizzling in a hot skillet, especially when the honey garlic sauce begins to waft through the kitchen. This Honey Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl has quickly become my go-to recipe for those hectic weeknights. The blend of succulent salmon and tender shrimp, all coated in a velvety, sweet-savory sauce, creates a burst of flavors that transports me straight to culinary bliss.
What’s even better? You can create this restaurant-quality dish in a flash, allowing for flexible customization of heat levels to suit your taste. After a long day, coming home to a bowl of this divine concoction feels like a warm hug, and you’ll be thrilled to look forward to its delightful leftovers the next day! Whether served over fluffy rice or alongside crisp veggies, this versatile bowl is bound to impress dinner guests and your family alike. Let’s dive into the details and make this weeknight dinner a delicious reality!
Why is this Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe whips up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and spices brings a delightful sweetness paired with savory notes.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice levels to suit your palate, whether you prefer a gentle kick or a fiery punch.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it ideal for batch cooking.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this dish to family or guests, and watch them rave about it—they’ll think you spent hours in the kitchen!
Take a step towards culinary bliss by crafting this vibrant dish today.
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Ingredients
For the Seafood
• Wild-Caught Salmon Fillet – The main protein choice that offers a firmer texture and richer flavor; frozen salmon is a suitable alternative if thawed properly.
• Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Adds delightful sweetness and protein; feel free to adjust size based on your preference.
For the Garlic Sauce
• Garlic (8 cloves, minced) – Essential for flavor enhancement; ensure it’s fresh for the best aroma.
• Fresh Ginger Root (4 tsp, minced) – Infuses a warm, aromatic spice to your dish, brightening up the overall flavor profile.
• Honey (3 tbsp, raw preferred) – Sweetens the sauce beautifully; you can swap it for agave as a vegan alternative.
For the Creamy Base
• Coconut Cream (full-fat) – Adds rich creaminess and balances the heat; light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat option.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp) – Enhances the richness of the sauce; for a dairy-free version, you can simply omit this.
For Spice and Seasoning
• Cayenne Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Smoked Paprika – These allow you to adjust the heat level to your liking, adding depth to the sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; always adjust to your taste.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkled on top before serving, it adds a burst of freshness that brightens each bite.
How to Make Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl
Prep Seafood: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp; then, cut the salmon into bite-sized chunks. This will ensure even cooking and delicious bites throughout.
Create Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, ginger, honey, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. This fragrant marinade is the secret to flavor.
Marinate Seafood: Divide the marinade into two bowls, tossing the shrimp and salmon separately to coat thoroughly. Let the seafood sit for about 10 minutes—this enhances the flavors.
Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and keep warm.
Cook Salmon: In the same skillet, add the salmon chunks. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. This helps to develop a delightful caramelized crust.
Make Sauce: Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Scrape the bottom for all that flavorful goodness, then stir in the remaining marinade. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
Combine: Return the cooked shrimp and salmon to the skillet. Add chopped cilantro and gently incorporate the coconut cream. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened and creamy.
Serve: Transfer the seafood mixture to bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh touch and serve warm to enjoy every mouthful.
Optional: Drizzle with lime juice for an extra zing of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowls are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade (garlic, ginger, honey, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to maximize flavor. The shrimp and salmon can be cut into pieces and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply marinate the seafood for about 10 minutes while you heat up the skillet. To prevent overcooking and maintain that tender texture, be sure to monitor the shrimp closely while they cook. Reheat any leftovers gently to keep the seafood deliciously succulent, making for quick and easy dinners throughout the week!
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by trying out these fun twists and substitutions!
Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option that still offers richness.
Spice it Up: Adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick that will excite your taste buds.
Veggie-Packed: Incorporate colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a delightful crunch and added nutrition; sauté them briefly before adding seafood.
Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished bowl for a bright, tangy brightness that complements the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce.
Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari to the marinade for an umami boost; serve with good-quality sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar in place of honey for a unique sweetness that can change the dish’s profile.
Grain Alternatives: Serve over quinoa, farro, or brown rice instead of jasmine rice for a nutty flavor and chewier texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh mint or Thai basil for a refreshing herbal addition that’ll elevate the flavor and add a touch of elegance.
What to Serve with Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Dress your dinner table with vibrant sides that complement this flavorful seafood dish beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that your family will love.
Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Provides a light and fragrant base that soaks up the luscious coconut and garlic sauce, balancing the savory flavors exquisite well.
Steamed Broccoli: Adds a burst of color and crunch; its mild flavor pairs effortlessly with the rich sauce, making it a nutritious choice.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing counterpart with crisp textures, this salad enhances your meal by cutting through the richness, offering a delightful coolness with every bite.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, this veggie alternative absorbs the sauce while providing a nice texture, making your dish feel hearty without the heaviness.
Garlic Bread: This classic side brings a comforting, buttery flavor and a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the tender seafood.
Mango Salsa: Fresh, juicy salsa brings a sweet and tangy twist to your plate, brightening flavors and adding a fun, tropical flair.
Chilled White Wine: Pair with a light Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the meal, as the crisp notes of wine will complement the seafood beautifully.
Chocolate Mousse: End your dinner on a sweet note with creamy dessert, which provides a rich, satisfying finish to your meal, leaving everyone feeling delighted.
Storage Tips for Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed immediately, but if needed, keep out for no more than 2 hours after cooking.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For better texture, separate the sauce from the seafood before refrigerating.
Freezer: Avoid freezing this dish as both salmon and shrimp can become rubbery when thawed.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent toughness in the seafood.
Expert Tips for Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl
• Cook Time Precision: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should turn pink and curl into a C-shape for perfect tenderness.
• Salmon Preparation: Pat the salmon dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful caramelized crust that locks in flavor.
• Creamy Consistency: Don’t let the coconut cream boil; gently warm it to prevent separation and maintain a velvety texture.
• Marination Magic: Allow the seafood to marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavors in your Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ideally storing sauce separately to maintain texture.
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon is best for the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Absolutely! Wild-caught salmon is the best choice for its firmer texture and richer flavor, but frozen salmon works too—just ensure it’s properly thawed before use for optimal results.
How should I store leftovers from the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separate to maintain the seafood’s texture and flavor. Just ensure you enjoy it within this timeframe for the best taste!
Can I freeze the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
I recommend avoiding freezing this dish, as both salmon and shrimp can turn rubbery when thawed. Instead, savor your leftovers within 3 days for the freshest experience. If you’re prone to meal preps, consider cooking fresh portions instead!
What are some common issues when cooking shrimp for the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Very! Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Shrimp should be pink and form a C-shape when perfectly cooked—typically around 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. So, keep a close eye!
Is the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl suitable for those with allergies?
For sure! This recipe can be easily adjusted for dietary needs. If you have a shellfish allergy, you can omit the shrimp entirely and use more salmon. For nut allergies, make sure to use specific brands of coconut cream that are nut-free, and feel free to replace honey with agave if vegan. Always tailor it to your comfort!
How can I adjust the heat levels in the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Great question! To control the spice levels, you can modify the amount of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika according to your taste. Start with the lower amounts indicated in the recipe, taste the sauce, and add more if you’re seeking extra warmth. This way, it’s just right for your palate!
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl: Quick, Flavorful Dinner Delight
Equipment
- - Skillet
- - Mixing bowl
- - Knife
- - Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Seafood
- 1 pound Wild-Caught Salmon Fillet Frozen salmon is a suitable alternative if thawed properly.
- 1 pound Shrimp (peeled and deveined) Adjust size based on preference.
For the Garlic Sauce
- 8 cloves Garlic (minced) Ensure it's fresh for the best aroma.
- 4 tsp Fresh Ginger Root (minced) Infuses warm, aromatic spice.
- 3 tbsp Honey Raw preferred.
For the Creamy Base
- 1 cup Coconut Cream Full-fat for creaminess.
- 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter Omit for dairy-free version.
For Spice and Seasoning
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust heat level.
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust heat level.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adjust heat level.
- to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
- to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For Garnishing
- 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro Adds freshness.
Instructions
Steps
- Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp; then, cut the salmon into bite-sized chunks.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, ginger, honey, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
- Divide the marinade into two bowls, tossing the shrimp and salmon separately to coat thoroughly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes per side.
- In the same skillet, add the salmon chunks; sauté for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet; stir in the remaining marinade. Cook for 1 minute.
- Return the cooked shrimp and salmon to the skillet. Stir in chopped cilantro and coconut cream.
- Transfer the seafood mixture to bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve warm.