Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors. This simple recipe combines juicy shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, creating a taste sensation reminiscent of Hawaii’s beautiful beaches. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of savory and sweet elements makes Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp unique and utterly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and pineapple juice creates a rich flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice for a hearty meal or enjoy it on its own as an appetizer.
- Tropical Twist: The addition of pineapple juice brings a sweet and refreshing touch that transports you to an island paradise.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish is sure to be a hit among family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking for the shrimp, helping them stay juicy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee that the flavors balance perfectly in Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and cilantro.
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 the Ingredients
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already prepared. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro. Measure out all other ingredients so they are ready to go.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place your skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil followed by unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely until it’s sizzling gently.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can add bitterness.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over.
Step 5: Add Sauce Ingredients
Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked through. They should be opaque and firm.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with optional garnishes like pineapple chunks or lime wedges for extra flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp! This tropical dish is bound to become a favorite in your household.
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Steamed Rice
- Steamed white or brown rice acts as a perfect base to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, adding a wholesome touch to your meal.
Over a Bed of Greens
- Serve the shrimp on a bed of fresh greens like spinach or arugula. The crispness of the greens complements the rich flavors of the shrimp.
As Tacos
- Create Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp tacos by placing the shrimp in soft tortillas. Top with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime for added crunch and flavor.
Paired with Grilled Pineapple
- Grilled pineapple adds a sweet and smoky element that pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp, creating an unforgettable flavor combination.
With Garlic Bread
- Serve alongside garlic bread to enjoy every drop of the garlic butter sauce. It’s an easy way to add extra flavor and texture to your meal.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To make sure your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp can also work; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
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Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!
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Use High-Quality Butter: The butter is key in this recipe, so use unsalted, high-quality butter for a richer flavor profile.
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Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste. A pinch of chili flakes can add a nice kick!
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs well with many side dishes that complement its tropical flavors. Here are some great options:
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Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish enhances the tropical vibes and adds creaminess to balance the savory shrimp.
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Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings sweetness and acidity that brightens up each bite of shrimp.
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition, while grilling brings out their natural sweetness.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp dish.
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Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs offers a hearty yet light side that complements the main dish well.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory notes of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, providing a comforting side option.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a fun texture and sweetness that is always a crowd-pleaser.
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Bok Choy Stir-Fry: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds crunch and nutrients while also providing an Asian-inspired twist to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp dish to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp offers better flavor and texture. If possible, use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best results.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: The balance of flavors is key. Taste your sauce and adjust salt, honey, or lime juice as needed before serving.
- Skipping the garlic: Garlic is essential for authentic flavor. Don’t skimp on it; feel free to add more if you love garlic!
- Not marinating the shrimp: Marinating enhances flavor. Allow the shrimp to soak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It lasts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delicious seafood dish featuring shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce, often served with rice or pasta.
Can I use different types of shrimp?
Yes, while large shrimp work best, you can use smaller shrimp or even prawns if that’s what you have available.
How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This recipe is not spicy but can be adjusted by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. You can also customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or serving it with different sides. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy a taste of paradise at home!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant seafood dish that brings the taste of the tropics right to your table. This recipe features plump shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce infused with sweet pineapple juice, soy sauce, and a hint of lime. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish takes only 25 minutes to prepare and cook. Serve it over a bed of rice or greens, or even in tacos for a fun twist. With its balance of savory and sweet elements, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the Hawaiian shores.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare shrimp by peeling and deveining if not done already. Mince garlic and chop cilantro.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted.
- Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink; flip to cook the other side.
- Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice; stir well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat and stir 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: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
