The unmistakable scent of sizzling garlic wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sun-kissed Hawaiian beach. This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe brings the essence of the islands right to your home, featuring juicy shrimp drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Not only is it a delightfully easy recipe that can be made in just 20 minutes, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or planning a dinner to impress, this dish strikes the perfect balance of quick preparation and vibrant flavors. Are you ready to infuse a little tropical magic into your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can be whipped up in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Bold Flavor: The rich garlic butter sauce is a flavor bomb, ensuring every bite transports you to paradise. Versatile Pairing: Serve it over coconut rice or alongside roasted veggies for a delectable feast. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this vibrant dish that’s sure to have them coming back for more. For more quick dinners, check out the delicious Garlic Butter Chicken or the mouthwatering Garlic Butter Steak.
Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
Let’s gather what you need to create this delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
For the Shrimp
• Extra large shrimp – Be sure to peel and devein these for a delectable bite.
• All-purpose flour – This gives shrimp a crispy coating; swap with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavor; adjust to your taste.
For the Sauce
• Minced fresh garlic – The heart of the dish, bringing that irresistible garlic flavor to life.
• Unsalted butter – Creates a rich, creamy base; ghee can substitute for a dairy-free option.
• Olive oil – Helps sauté without burning the butter; feel free to use canola or avocado oil.
• Paprika – Adds a pop of color and mild heat; smoked paprika intensifies the flavor.
• Cayenne pepper – Optional for an extra kick; adjust based on heat preference.
• Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the richness of the sauce; freshly squeezed is the best bet.
For Garnish
• Minced fresh parsley – This adds a touch of color and freshness to your plated dish.
Ready to take a culinary trip to the islands? Gather these ingredients and let’s start cooking your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Begin by patting the extra large shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently until the shrimp are evenly coated, creating a light layer that will crisp up beautifully when cooked.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large non-stick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced fresh garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. This aromatic base sets the stage for your Hawaiian garlic shrimp.
Step 3: Cook Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2 minutes on one side, watching for them to turn pink. Flip each shrimp over and cook for another 2 minutes until they are fully cooked and opaque, signaling that they are ready to be removed from heat.
Step 4: Finish
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from heat and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice, allowing the bright flavor to penetrate the sauce. Toss the shrimp gently to coat them evenly in the velvety garlic butter sauce. If desired, garnish with minced fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness before serving.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as you create a delicious meal that transports you right to the shores of Hawaii.
- Coconut Rice: The creamy, subtly sweet flavor of coconut rice beautifully balances the rich garlic sauce, enhancing your tropical experience.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that luscious garlic butter; every bite melds flavors, satisfying your taste buds with each morsel.
- Grilled Pineapple: Adding a sweet and tangy element, grilled pineapple introduces a lovely contrast that brightens every bite of shrimp.
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal veggies adds texture and health, elevating your meal and providing a fresh crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, a light quinoa salad offers a delightful chewiness and makes this dish feel even more wholesome.
- Hawaiian-style Coleslaw: This vibrant side brings a crisp, refreshing zest to the dining table, making for a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Mango Salsa: A tropical twist with juicy mangoes and zesty lime, this salsa adds depth and freshness that pairs remarkably well.
- Pineapple Rum Cocktail: Sip on this refreshing drink while enjoying your garlic shrimp; its fruity notes complement the meal’s tropical essence perfectly.
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Dry Thoroughly: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to achieve a perfect sear, enhancing the dish’s texture and flavor.
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Avoid Overcooking: Cook shrimp just until opaque; overcooking will lead to a rubbery texture that can ruin your garlic shrimp experience.
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Adjust for Taste: Modify the garlic and cayenne pepper according to your preference for a stronger or milder flavor, ensuring each bite is just right for you.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh minced garlic and lemon juice elevate the dish’s flavor profile, capturing the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.
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Don’t Skip the Butter: Unsalted butter is essential for a rich, creamy sauce, but feel free to swap with ghee for a dairy-free version if needed.
Garlic Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with the flavors and ingredients to make this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp your own!
- Scallops: Swap out shrimp for tender scallops for a delightful change in texture and taste.
- Coconut Milk: Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a rich, tropical twist that enhances the flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate fresh lime or orange zest alongside lemon for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
- Herb Variants: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a different aromatic finish.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or snap peas for added color, nutrition, and a crunchy texture.
- Wok-Style Stir-Fry: Toss the shrimp and garlic into a hot wok with sesame oil for an Asian-inspired version—don’t forget the soy sauce!
- Gluten-Free: If gluten is a concern, use cornstarch instead of flour for the shrimp coating without sacrificing crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra spicy adventure.
With these versatile options, this dish can be transformed to suit your cravings or dietary needs, bringing a new taste to your table each time. And if you’re in the mood for more exciting recipes, don’t miss the flavorful Garlic Butter Meatballs or the delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Piccata Pasta!
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the shrimp with flour, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the garlic can be minced ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic in butter and oil, add the shrimp, and cook until they’re perfectly pink and opaque. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, even on the busiest nights!
Storage Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to avoid overcooking the shrimp and to keep the sauce saucy.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair reheated garlic shrimp with fresh rice or quinoa to recreate that delicious meal experience.
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for my Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for extra-large shrimp that are firm and have a slightly springy texture. The shells should be intact with a clean, fishy smell. Avoid any shrimp with dark spots or a strong ammonia odor, as these could indicate spoilage. Fresh shrimp should be a translucent color, and if you’re buying frozen, ensure they’re frozen solid without any signs of freezer burn.
How should I store leftovers of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and avoid overcooking the shrimp. This way, you can enjoy another tropical bite!
Can Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp be frozen? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, first allow the shrimp to cool completely after cooking. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. You can enjoy your shrimp for up to 1 month in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of a cooking liquid to keep things warm and saucy.
What can I do if my shrimp turn out rubbery?
Oh no! If your shrimp end up rubbery, it’s likely they were overcooked. For future reference, remember that shrimp cook quickly. They only need about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. If you find they are still rubbery, consider adjusting the cooking time or temperature during your next attempt and keep a close eye on them.
Are there any dietary considerations for this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe?
Absolutely! If you have shellfish allergies, this dish isn’t suitable. Also, make sure to use ghee instead of butter if anyone needs a dairy-free option. For gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Fresh ingredients—especially garlic and lemon juice—are important for flavor, so I recommend using them whenever possible!
Can I use shrimp alternatives for this recipe?
Very much so! You can substitute shrimp with scallops for a delightful twist, or even use firm tofu for a veggie option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as scallops may need a minute longer and tofu will require a bit more sautéing to ensure it becomes golden and crispy. Enjoy experimenting!
Garlic Shrimp in Creamy Butter Sauce Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the extra large shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine shrimp with all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne (if desired), salt, and pepper.
- In a large non-stick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the coated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes on one side until pink, then flip each shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Toss the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with minced parsley before serving.
