When busy weeknights hit and the thought of fast food creeps in, I find myself yearning for something more satisfying yet quick to prepare. Enter the Easy Honey Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl—a dish that strikes the perfect balance between flavor and convenience. Imagine tender salmon and succulent shrimp dancing in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, kissed with rich coconut cream and a zesty touch of ginger. The delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen, instantly transforming even the most mundane evening into a special experience.
Best of all, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable—feel free to swap in your favorite seafood and adjust the heat to your liking. With just a little bit of prep, you’ll have a nutritious, high-protein dinner on the table ready to impress your family or simply to enjoy all by yourself. Get ready to savor a bowl that’s not only comforting but also full of flavor!
Why is this Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe lets you get a delicious dinner on the table in just 20 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce perfectly complements the seafood, creating a delightful dining experience.
Healthy Choice: Packed with high-protein ingredients like salmon and shrimp, this dish is as nutritious as it is satisfying.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite seafood or adjust the heat level to suit your taste. For more seafood ideas, check out our Top Seafood Substitutes.
Crowd Pleaser: This bowl is sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions!
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Ingredients
• You’ll love how simple it is to gather these ingredients!
For the Sauce
Honey – Adds a sweet touch to create that irresistible glaze. Raw honey is recommended for its rich flavor.
Garlic (8 cloves) – Essential for depth; freshly minced is a must for maximum impact.
Ginger (4 tsp) – Brings warmth and zest; fresh ginger elevates the taste beautifully.
Cayenne Pepper – Gives a spicy kick; adjust to suit your heat preference.
Red Pepper Flakes – Add complexity and heat; a little goes a long way!
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a hint of smokiness; perfect for depth of flavor.
For the Proteins
Wild-Caught Salmon – Offers a firm texture and rich taste; frozen works too if thawed properly.
Shrimp – Fresh and quick-cooking, adding a sweet contrast to the salmon; choose peeled and deveined for ease.
For Cooking
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for cooking, ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp) – Enhances richness and helps deglaze the skillet beautifully.
For the Creaminess
Coconut Cream – Adds luscious texture and balances the dish; go for full-fat for the best results.
For Garnishing
Cilantro – Freshens up the dish beautifully; feel free to skip if it’s not your style.
Feel free to mix it up and adapt these ingredients based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences—making this Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl a delightful culinary canvas!
How to Make Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl
Prepare the Seafood: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Cut the salmon into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Mix the Marinade: In two separate bowls, combine minced garlic, ginger, honey, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well to coat the shrimp and salmon evenly.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Once ready, transfer them to a plate.
Sear the Salmon: In the same skillet, add the salmon chunks. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden-brown and are cooked through. Carefully place them on the plate with the shrimp.
Deglaze the Skillet: Lower the heat and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow it to melt, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the pan. Pour in the leftover marinade to create a flavorful sauce.
Add the Creaminess: Return both the shrimp and salmon to the skillet, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and gently stir in the coconut cream. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the bowl immediately, garnished with more cilantro if desired, and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!
Optional: For a touch of crunch, add chopped nuts as a garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the marinade (garlic, ginger, honey, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld. The salmon can be cut into bite-sized chunks and the shrimp peeled and deveined a day ahead as well. When you’re ready to cook, just combine the marinated seafood with olive oil and follow the cooking instructions as normal. To maintain quality, store the seafood and marinade separately until you’re prepared to serve. This way, you’ll have a delicious, stress-free dinner ready to impress your family or enjoy as a delightfully satisfying single dish!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness; separate the sauce if possible to maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and salmon mix in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist; you can also use the microwave on low power if necessary.
Quality Tip: To keep your Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl tasting fresh, avoid boiling the coconut cream when reheating, as it may separate.
What to Serve with Easy Honey Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast that tantalizes the taste buds and satisfies the senses.
- Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture perfectly absorbs the honey garlic sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors in every bite.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that adds a nutty flavor, allowing the seafood’s richness to shine through without overpowering.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and crisp, this vegetable offers a refreshing crunch and complements the bowl’s warm flavors beautifully.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, they add earthy depth and delightful crispness, contrasting with the tender seafood.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad brings a cool element that brightens the dish, making it a light and healthy option.
- Szechuan Noodles: For those craving something heartier, these spicy, chewy noodles marry well with the bowl, adding a flavorful kick.
- Herbed Quinoa: Packed with protein, this nutty grain adds texture and a pleasant earthiness that plays very well with the rich seafood.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and zesty, this bright topping provides a fresh burst of flavor, lightening the dish and enhancing its overall appeal.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a floral Riesling will elevate your dining experience, pairing wonderfully with the dish’s sweet notes.
- Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate, this light and refreshing dessert caps off a hearty meal beautifully, leaving a sweet memory lingering.
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the dish your own!
- Farm-Raised Salmon: Swap for farm-raised salmon if that’s what you prefer; just keep an eye on cooking times for freshness.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add fresh sliced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick, elevating your flavor experience.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace seafood with tofu or tempeh, marinating them in the same sauce for a protein-packed alternative.
- Flavorful Seafood Mix: Get adventurous and use a mix of shrimp, scallops, or even crab for a seafood extravaganza that’s sure to impress!
- Rice Alternatives: For a low-carb option, serve the dish over spiralized zucchini or riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice.
- Seasonal Veggies: Toss in seasonal veggies like asparagus or bell peppers during cooking for added texture and nutrients; they’ll brighten up the dish!
- Coconut-Free: Opt for heavy cream or a nut-based cream for a different yet delightful creaminess if you wish to skip coconut.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint in place of cilantro for a unique flavor profile that’s refreshing and aromatic.
Expert Tips for Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl
Watch the Heat: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the proteins; this helps achieve a nice sear on the salmon, enhancing flavor in your Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl.
Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to rubbery texture; look for that lovely opaque color instead!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide the best flavor. Dried substitutes won’t compare; aim for the real deal for your Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl!
Deglaze Well: After cooking the salmon, make sure to deglaze the pan thoroughly to capture all those savory bits; they’ll enrich your sauce and enhance overall taste.
Adjust Spice Levels: This dish is customizable! Add more or less cayenne and red pepper flakes to hit the perfect heat point for your family and enjoy every bite.
Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using wild-caught salmon. It offers a firm texture and richer taste. If wild-caught isn’t available, you can absolutely use farm-raised salmon—just be mindful that it may require slight adjustments in cooking time for optimal results.
How should I store leftovers from the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best experience, keep the sauce separate from the seafood, as this prevents the shrimp and salmon from becoming overly soft. Reheat them gently when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers!
Can I freeze the Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl?
Yes, absolutely! You can freeze the shrimp and salmon mix in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it out into airtight freezer bags or containers. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture.
What can I do if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
If your shrimp turns rubbery, it likely cooked too long. To avoid this, keep an eye on the cooking time—shrimp should only take about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. If you do overcook, try adding them back to the sauce in the skillet briefly instead of further cooking, to help retain moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
This dish contains seafood, which can be an allergen for some individuals. If you’re serving guests, it may be wise to check for any shellfish allergies beforehand. Additionally, if you prefer a dairy-free version, feel free to substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative. Enjoy customizing it to suit your dietary needs!
Savory Garlic Salmon and Shrimp Bowl Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and devein the shrimp. Cut the salmon into bite-sized chunks.
- In two separate bowls, combine minced garlic, ginger, honey, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil and mix well to coat the shrimp and salmon evenly.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Transfer the shrimp to a plate. In the same skillet, add the salmon chunks and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden-brown.
- Transfer the salmon to the plate with the shrimp.
- Lower the heat and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the leftover marinade to create a sauce.
- Return the shrimp and salmon to the skillet, sprinkle with cilantro, and stir in the coconut cream. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with more cilantro.