Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that captures the essence of island life. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to vibrant gatherings. The combination of garlic, butter, and tropical flavors will transport your taste buds straight to Hawaii, making it a standout choice on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce combined with pineapple juice creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp over rice or on its own as a light meal or appetizer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its tropical flavors make it an instant hit at parties or family gatherings.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is a wholesome choice for any meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and retains heat well, vital for achieving perfectly sautéed shrimp.
- Measuring spoons: Precise measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in the garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Pineapple chunks
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, gather all the ingredients. Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Add Sauce Ingredients
Once the shrimp are cooked, pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, lime juice, and remaining butter. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes until heated through. The sauce should thicken slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro before serving. Plate your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with optional garnishes like pineapple chunks or lime wedges for an extra tropical touch!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or as part of a spread, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. This classic pairing makes for a filling meal.
In Tacos
- Use soft tortillas to create Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp tacos. Top them with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime for an added zing.
Over Quinoa
- For a healthier twist, serve the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp over quinoa. This adds extra protein and a nutty flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
As an Appetizer
- Present small portions of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp on skewers or in small bowls for a delightful appetizer. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro for an appealing look.
On Salad
- Toss the shrimp into a fresh salad. Combine mixed greens, avocado, and mango for a tropical touch that balances the flavors beautifully.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pair the shrimp with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. This adds color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing the tropical theme.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, consider these helpful tips.
-
Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp have better texture and taste compared to frozen ones. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.
-
Adjust garlic levels: If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount used in this recipe. More garlic can enhance the dish’s overall aroma and flavor.
-
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like red pepper flakes or paprika for some heat. This can give your dish an exciting kick.
-
Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook until just pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, ruining the dish’s delicate texture.
-
Marinate for flavor: Consider marinating the shrimp in pineapple juice and soy sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances both flavor and tenderness.
-
Garnish generously: Adding fresh cilantro or pineapple chunks as garnish not only makes the dish look appealing but also enhances its tropical flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options:
-
Coconut Rice: This sweet and creamy rice is an excellent complement that mirrors tropical flavors while balancing the savory shrimp.
-
Coleslaw: A light coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides crunch and freshness, making it a great contrast to the rich garlic sauce.
-
Grilled Pineapple: Sweet grilled pineapple adds caramelization and acidity that pairs wonderfully with savory garlic shrimp.
-
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from your plate while adding an extra layer of flavor.
-
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas offer color and crunch while keeping it healthy.
-
Lime Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and chopped cilantro enhances each bite of shrimp while adding zesty freshness.
-
Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings sweetness and acidity that brightens up every mouthful of garlic shrimp.
-
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is easy to prepare and adds sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors in this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.
- Using Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is key for optimal flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Skipping the Marinade: Marinating shrimp enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; even 15-30 minutes can make a big difference.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out flavors. Always taste before serving and adjust as needed.
- Not Using Enough Garlic: The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish. Be generous with minced garlic to achieve that rich flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each interval until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.
Can I use any type of shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Yes, while large shrimp are preferred for their meatiness, you can use medium or even smaller shrimp if that’s what you have on hand.
What can I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Pineapple chunks also add a nice tropical touch!
How long does it take to prepare Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
The total time for this recipe is about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or last-minute gatherings.
Can I customize the flavors in Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for extra depth. A dash of chili flakes can add some heat!
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only simple but incredibly flavorful, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether served on its own or with sides like rice or salad, this dish offers endless customization options. Try it out and bring a taste of Hawaii into your home!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a quick and delightful seafood dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the islands right to your dinner table. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this savory meal that features succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of pineapple. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish shines as both an appetizer and a main course. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside fresh salads for a tropical twist that will impress your family and friends. Experience the essence of Hawaii with every bite!
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 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Mince garlic and chop cilantro.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Add shrimp; season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Stir in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, and remaining butter. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat; mix in chopped cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
