1-First Step: Prep the flavor base Start by grating 1 to 2 garlic cloves and a 1-inch knob of fresh ginger. Fresh garlic and ginger give the sauce a brighter taste than dried spices, and they mix easily into the marinade. If you need a backup, garlic powder and ginger powder can work, but the fresh version tastes better.

2-Second Step: Clean and dry the shrimp Prepare 1 pound of medium raw shrimp by peeling, deveining, washing, and drying them well. Dry shrimp cook better because excess water can keep them from searing properly. This step also helps the sauce cling to each piece later.

3-Third Step: Make the marinade In a bowl, mix 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup coconut amino liquid, the grated garlic, and the grated ginger. Stir until the honey loosens and the mixture looks smooth. This is the base of your high protein shrimp glaze, and it should smell sweet, salty, and a little spicy.

4-Fourth Step: Marinate the shrimp Coat the shrimp with about 1/4 of the marinade and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes. Marinating is optional, but it improves tenderness and flavor. If you are short on time, you can still cook the shrimp right away, but the short rest helps the garlic shrimp taste deeper and richer. Keep the marinade separate. You will use the rest later to build the sauce in the pan.

5-Fifth Step: Cook the shrimp Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and curl gently. Remove them from the pan right away and set them aside. Do not overcook the shrimp. Once they turn pink and form a loose C shape, they are ready. If they curl tightly into an O shape, they may become rubbery. This is one of the most important steps in any shrimp recipe.

6-Sixth Step: Thicken the sauce Pour the remaining marinade into the same pan. Let it simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir often so the honey does not burn. The sauce should become glossy and coat the back of a spoon.

7-Final Step: Toss, garnish, and serve Add the shrimp back into the pan and toss them in the sauce until well coated. Finish with 1 to 2 chopped green onions, green parts only, 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, and 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright final squeeze. This is the moment when your sweet savory shrimp dinner really comes together.