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 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons chili paste; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love this Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze recipe because it combines sweet and spicy flavors in a way that’s truly addictive. The first time I made it, I was astonished by how the fresh strawberry flavor complemented the heat from the chili. It's fast, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether I'm entertaining guests or simply treating myself to a special dinner at home, this dish never disappoints. The vibrant colors and bold flavors always leave me wanting more!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:49:12.176Z

When I first paired strawberries with shrimp, I was met with raised eyebrows from my family. However, the unique combination of flavors was a delightful surprise. The sweetness of the strawberries beautifully offsets the heat of the chili, creating a symphony on the taste buds. I’ve made it multiple times since, tweaking the spice levels to cater to different palates.

One tip I learned is to use fresh strawberries for the glaze. Frozen strawberries can be too watery and dilute the flavor. Additionally, serving the shrimp immediately after glazing ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. Trust me; your guests will rave about this dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and spicy flavor explosion in every bite
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Fresh ingredients make it a healthier option
Visually stunning dish that impresses at dinner parties

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The unique balance between sweetness and heat in the Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze comes from a perfect blend of fresh strawberries and chili paste. Strawberries provide natural sweetness and color, while chili paste adds depth with its spicy kick. For the best results, choose ripe, juicy strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. If strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch; simply thaw and mash them before blending.

Honey not only enhances the sweetness of the dish but also contributes to a glossy finish when glazed over the shrimp. You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you're looking for a vegan option. The soy sauce adds an umami component, which rounds out the flavors beautifully. Remember to use low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake, ensuring the glaze remains balanced and flavorful.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp can be tricky; they can easily overcook and become rubbery. To avoid this, it's essential to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes just 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Keep a close eye on them as they cook, and remove them from the heat promptly to maintain their tender texture. A non-stick skillet works wonders for preventing sticking while allowing for easy cleaning afterwards.

Another tip for perfectly cooked shrimp is to ensure they are uniformly sized. If you're using shrimp of different sizes, pre-cook the larger ones for 1-2 minutes before adding the smaller ones to ensure even cooking. This technique helps achieve that ideal succulent bite without any overcooked pieces mingling in the mix.

Ingredients

Gather all your fresh ingredients to make this vibrant dish come to life.

Ingredients for Shrimp with Strawberry Chili Glaze

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons chili paste
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once everything is prepared, you’ll have a beautiful array of colors and flavors to work with!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a deliciously unique dish.

Prepare the Strawberry Chili Glaze

In a blender, combine sliced strawberries, chili paste, honey, and soy sauce. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.

Glaze the Shrimp

Pour the strawberry chili glaze over the shrimp in the skillet. Toss to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Transfer the glazed shrimp to a serving platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy immediately.

Serve this dish hot for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

Pair this dish with a refreshing salad or serve over rice for a complete meal. Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your spice preference for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

The vibrant colors of the shrimp with the strawberry chili glaze make it a visually stunning dish great for entertaining. To elevate the presentation, serve it on a bed of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the rich hues of the glaze. You could also drizzle some extra glaze around the plate for a restaurant-style presentation.

For a complete meal, consider pairing this shrimp dish with sides that complement its sweet and spicy profile. Grilled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad offer a nice contrast, while crusty bread can be perfect for soaking up any remaining glaze. A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs exceptionally well with the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The glaze will continue to infuse flavor into the shrimp as they rest. However, to prevent overcooking, it's best to reheat quickly in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to rubbery shrimp.

For longer storage, consider freezing the glazed shrimp. Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the sweet and spicy flavors will remain bold and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

→ What if I don't have chili paste?

You can substitute with sriracha or any hot sauce, adjusting the quantity to match your taste.

→ How can I make this dish lower in calories?

You can reduce the amount of honey in the glaze or use a sugar substitute to lower the sugar content.

→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

A light salad or steamed vegetables complement the shrimp well, balancing the sweetness of the glaze.