Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that transports you to the shores of Hawaii with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe features tender shrimp enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, accented by tropical pineapple juice and a hint of lime. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively beach party—this dish is sure to impress. The vibrant flavors and quick preparation make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a standout choice for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can serve this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and pineapple juice creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the shrimp to new heights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with pasta, or as a standalone dish—Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this shrimp recipe is both satisfying and guilt-free.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests at barbecues or dinner parties with this crowd-pleasing seafood dish that delivers a taste of the tropics.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the shrimp evenly while allowing the sauce to reduce beautifully.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient portions, which is crucial for balancing flavors in your garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

For Garnishing

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: pineapple chunks, lime wedges, and extra cilantro

How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. This ensures you have everything ready for cooking without any interruptions.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat your large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil along with the unsalted butter until it melts and starts bubbling.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer

Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving. Optionally add pineapple chunks or lime wedges for an extra festive touch.

Enjoy your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp as part of a delightful dinner experience!

How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its tropical flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make your meal unforgettable.

With Rice

• Jasmine Rice: The fragrant aroma of jasmine rice complements the garlic shrimp beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• Coconut Rice: Infusing rice with coconut milk brings a sweet and creamy element that pairs well with the shrimp.

As Tacos

• Corn Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas provide a soft base for the shrimp, topped with fresh cilantro and lime.
• Slaw Topping: Add a crunchy slaw made of cabbage, carrots, and lime for extra texture.

With Fresh Salad

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of pineapple, mango, and papaya creates a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp.
• Mixed Greens: Tossed greens with light vinaigrette complement the richness of the garlic butter sauce.

As an Appetizer

• Shrimp Skewers: Serve smaller portions on skewers for easy appetizer bites at parties.
• Garlic Bread Slices: Use crispy garlic bread to scoop up the flavorful sauce.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

To elevate your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, consider these helpful tips that ensure each bite is full of flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the taste significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Marinate Your Shrimp: Allowing shrimp to marinate briefly in pineapple juice or soy sauce infuses them with flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Experiment with Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Pairing sides with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; steam lightly to keep it crisp.
2. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delicious contrast to the savory shrimp.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing makes for a healthy accompaniment.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add smoky flavors that complement the dish well.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the shrimp.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create comfort alongside the dish.
7. Mango Salsa: Fresh mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using frozen shrimp – Fresh shrimp offers the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Skipping the marinade – Marinating shrimp enhances the flavor. Don’t rush; let them soak in the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcooking shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly. Avoid rubbery texture by cooking just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Neglecting seasoning – A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate your dish. Don’t forget to season your shrimp before cooking!
• Not adjusting sweetness – The balance of sweetness is key in Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp. Taste and adjust honey or brown sugar according to your preference.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat until warmed through, adding a bit of butter if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp:

What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with hints of pineapple and lime.

Can I use other types of shrimp?

Yes, feel free to use different sizes or varieties such as medium shrimp or even scallops for a twist on this classic recipe.

How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

This recipe is not spicy but can be customized with chili flakes or fresh peppers if you prefer some heat.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light meal!

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or serving it at a gathering, this recipe allows room for customization—add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness as you like. Try it today for a taste of paradise!