Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is the perfect dish to bring a taste of the tropics to your table. This quick and easy recipe features succulent shrimp bathed in a delicious garlic butter sauce with hints of sweetness from pineapple juice. Ideal for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp delights with every bite. It stands out for its vibrant flavors and straightforward preparation, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

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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 the Ingredients
• Step 2: Heat the Skillet
• Step 3: Sauté Garlic
• Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 5: Create the Sauce
• Step 6: Season and Serve
• How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
• With Steamed Rice
• On a Bed of Greens
• As Tacos
• Alongside Grilled Vegetables
• 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 gluten-free?
• Can I use different types of shrimp?
• What sides pair well with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
• How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this dish fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, butter, and pineapple juice creates a unique taste that is both savory and sweet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or enjoy it alone as an appetizer – it suits any occasion!
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and ingredients means you get the best flavor possible in each bite.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will impress your friends and family with its tropical flair.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp successfully, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Below are essential items you’ll need to create this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp.
• Measuring spoons: Precision in measuring ingredients ensures balanced flavors in your garlic butter sauce.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping garlic and cilantro.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to mince garlic and chop fresh herbs quickly.

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 gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined, garlic is minced, and cilantro is chopped.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Allow it to warm up before adding butter.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice. Stir well. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp warm with rice or as an appetizer!

How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you prefer a light meal or a full feast, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – The fragrant rice pairs perfectly with the garlic shrimp, soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Coconut Rice – For a tropical twist, serve the shrimp over coconut-infused rice for added flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Green Salad – Tossed greens with vinaigrette make for a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic butter shrimp.
• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that complements the savory shrimp.

As Tacos

• Shrimp Tacos – Use warm tortillas to make tasty tacos filled with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, topped with fresh salsa and avocado.
• Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb option, wrap the shrimp in crisp lettuce leaves along with slaw for added texture.

Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled Pineapple and Bell Peppers – The sweetness of grilled pineapple and peppers enhances the tropical flavors of the dish.
• Asparagus or Zucchini – Lightly grilled asparagus or zucchini add a healthy and colorful side.

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How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

To ensure your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh shrimp and garlic will provide the best flavor profile for this dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Cook until just pink and opaque; overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Feel free to add more lime juice or honey based on your preference for sweetness or acidity.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor – Letting the shrimp marinate briefly in pineapple juice and soy sauce can enhance their taste before cooking.
• Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking while it’s hot and fresh.
• Garnish Creatively – Use fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or pineapple chunks to elevate presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Pairing your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that will enhance your dining experience.

1. Coconut Rice – Infuse rice with coconut milk for a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
2. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the dish.
3. Coleslaw – A zesty coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the shrimp.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a protein-packed complement that’s also nutritious.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness balances well with the savory garlic shrimp flavors.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a fun element, especially when sprinkled with chili powder and lime juice.
7. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad featuring tropical fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of savory shrimp.
8. Stir-Fried Broccoli – Lightly stir-fried broccoli brings color and nutrition while adding a slight crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides better flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery. Aim for a pink color and firm texture for best results.
• Neglecting the garlic: Garlic is crucial in this recipe. Sauté it just until fragrant to prevent bitterness.
• Skipping the marination: Allowing the shrimp to marinate enhances flavor. Even a short 10-15 minute soak makes a difference.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure your sauce has a good mix of sweet, salty, and tangy elements. Adjust pineapple juice and lime juice to taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you might have about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.

What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful dish featuring shrimp cooked in a savory garlic butter sauce, often served with rice.

How do I make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I use different types of shrimp?

Yes! While large shrimp are recommended for this recipe, you can use any size you prefer. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

What sides pair well with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

This recipe is not spicy but can be adjusted by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with tropical flavors that transport you straight to the islands. Feel free to customize the dish by adding extra vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!