Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that transports you to the islands with every bite. This recipe captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, featuring juicy shrimp enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to festive gatherings, impressing family and friends alike. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is bound to become a favorite on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this dish in under 30 minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, pineapple juice, and ginger creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone raving.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice for a hearty meal or on its own as an appetizer at parties.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious option for any seafood lover.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, ensure you have the right tools on hand to streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or frying pan: Provides ample space for cooking shrimp evenly without overcrowding.
- Cutting board: A stable surface for safely chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of garlic and other ingredients, enhancing flavor release.
- Measuring spoons: Help maintain ingredient proportions for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce
- 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
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your shrimp is cleaned and deveined. Chop your garlic, cilantro, and measure out all liquid ingredients.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow them to melt together until frothy.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice. Stir everything well to coat the shrimp in sauce. Let it simmer for another minute or two.
Step 6: Finish Up
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro before serving. Optionally garnish with pineapple chunks and lime wedges for an extra tropical touch.
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to complement its tropical flavors and make the meal even more enjoyable.
With Steamed Rice
- Pair the shrimp with fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the flavorful garlic butter sauce, making each bite delightful.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the shrimp on a bed of fresh greens like spinach or mixed salad. This adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
Tacos or Lettuce Wraps
- Create tasty tacos or lettuce wraps using Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp. Top with fresh veggies and a squeeze of lime for an added zing.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Complement your shrimp with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. The smoky flavor enhances the dish beautifully.
As an Appetizer
- Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at your next gathering. Add toothpicks for easy serving and enjoyment.
With Pineapple Salsa
- A side of pineapple salsa adds a fruity twist to your meal. The sweetness of the salsa pairs well with the savory garlic shrimp.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To make your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh shrimp and garlic will elevate the dish’s taste significantly.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – Cook just until they are pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lime juice based on your preference.
- Try different garnishes – Experiment with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or even slices of fresh chili for added flair.
- Serve immediately – Enjoy the shrimp right after cooking for optimal flavor and texture.
- Incorporate heat – For spice lovers, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a kick!
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Pairing your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options!
- Coconut Rice – This fragrant rice dish complements the shrimp’s tropical flavors perfectly.
- Mango Salad – A light mango salad brings freshness and sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and nutritional value alongside your shrimp.
- Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast that works well with seafood dishes.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
- Asian Cucumber Salad – This refreshing salad adds a crisp element that brightens up your plate.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is always a hit at gatherings and pairs nicely with this dish’s island vibes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the marinade: Marinating shrimp in pineapple juice and soy sauce enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for a tasty dish.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking makes it tough. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality butter make a difference. Choose the best ingredients for superior taste.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your garlic butter sauce before serving. Adjust salt or lime for a balanced flavor that suits your palate.
- Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro and lime wedges elevate presentation and flavor. Don’t forget to add these finishing touches!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place cooled Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat shrimp in a baking dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to heat evenly.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of butter. Cook until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp is a great option. Just ensure you thaw them completely before cooking to achieve the best texture.
What can I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping.
How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This recipe is not spicy but flavorful. If you prefer some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers.
Is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp gluten-free?
Yes, this dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
How long does it take to make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This dish takes about 25 minutes total, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful combination of flavors that transports you straight to the islands. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s dinner at home or a festive gathering. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different marinades!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the islands right to your kitchen. With succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delightful burst of tropical flavors. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Serve it over rice or with fresh greens, and watch as it quickly becomes a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients: Clean and devein shrimp, chop garlic and cilantro, and measure liquids.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil until melted and frothy.
- Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ginger, and lime juice. Stir well and simmer for another minute.
- Remove from heat, mix in cilantro, and garnish if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
