Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors. This quick and easy recipe combines juicy shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of pineapple and lime. Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings, this dish will transport you to the sunny shores of Hawaii with every bite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
• Step 2: Heat the Skillet
• Step 3: Sauté Garlic
• Step 4: Cook Shrimp
• Step 5: Make the Sauce
• Step 6: Finish Cooking
• Step 7: Garnish & Serve
• How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• With Steamed Rice
• On a Bed of Greens
• As Tacos
• With Grilled Vegetables
• Garnished with Pineapple and Lime
• How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
• How do I make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp less spicy?
• Can I use frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
• What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh pineapple juice creates an irresistible taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, toss it in pasta, or enjoy it on its own. This dish adapts to your meal preferences effortlessly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and vibrant herbs like cilantro enhances the dish’s tropical feel and taste.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a beach-themed party or a family dinner, this dish is always a hit!

Tools and Preparation

To make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: A good skillet allows even cooking while giving your shrimp a nice sear.
• Chef’s knife: Sharp knives make chopping garlic and herbs quick and easy.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping shrimp without breaking them apart during cooking.

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 Garnish

• 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 Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to melt.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Cook Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice. Pour this mixture into the skillet with cooked shrimp.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Let everything simmer for about 2–3 more minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to coat all shrimp well in the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with optional garnishes like pineapple chunks and lime wedges for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!

How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich flavors pair well with many sides and garnishes, enhancing the tropical experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice absorbs the garlic butter sauce, making each bite delightful.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the shrimp over fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and healthy option.

As Tacos

• Use tortillas to create shrimp tacos, topped with cabbage slaw and lime juice for added crunch.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the shrimp with seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful plate.

Garnished with Pineapple and Lime

• Adding fresh pineapple chunks and lime wedges not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant touch.

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How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Perfecting Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is all about balancing flavors and ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, shrimp, and pineapple juice will bring vibrant flavors to your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook until just pink; overcooking can make them tough.
• Adjust Sweetness: Customize the sweetness by varying honey or brown sugar based on your taste preference.
• Add Spice: For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding basil or mint along with cilantro for a unique twist.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp right after cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Complementing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice pairs beautifully with the savory garlic shrimp, creating a delightful contrast.
2. Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa adds brightness and a tropical flair that balances the richness of the shrimp.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite that contrasts nicely with the tender shrimp.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a summery vibe and pairs well with tropical flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a nutritious boost that complements the seafood dish.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce left on your plate.
7. Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors of asparagus provide a nice balance to the sweet garlic sauce.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring tropical fruits can cleanse the palate after each savory bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Using old garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Check that your garlic cloves are firm and free from sprouting.
• Not balancing flavors: The sauce should have a sweet and savory balance. Adjust the honey or soy sauce to your taste to ensure a harmonious flavor.
• Skipping marination: Allowing shrimp to marinate in the sauce for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Neglecting side dishes: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables. Plan a side dish to complement the meal and add nutritional value.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label it with the date for reference.

Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful dish featuring shrimp sautéed in garlic butter with tropical ingredients like pineapple juice. It’s quick to prepare and delicious!

How do I make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp less spicy?

To reduce spiciness, limit the amount of ground ginger used or opt for milder seasoning options. You can also add more butter or honey for sweetness.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Yes! Frozen shrimp works well; just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking to maintain texture.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad to create a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor that transports you straight to a tropical paradise. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful seafood experience!