Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors in every bite. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating your family to a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a summer gathering. With its quick preparation and vibrant taste, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp stands out as an easy yet impressive seafood dish that brings a taste of the islands right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Prepare this dish in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and pineapple juice creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or serve it as an appetizer; it’s perfect for any meal.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients like pineapple juice and cilantro elevates the flavor profile.
- Healthy Dish: Low in carbs and high in protein, this recipe is a nutritious choice for seafood lovers.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp even easier. Gather these essential items to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Perfect for cooking shrimp quickly while allowing enough space for even heat distribution.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts of garlic and other ingredients, enhancing the overall presentation.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent flavors every time you make this dish.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce
- ½ cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pineapple chunks, lime wedges, and extra cilantro
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Mince the garlic, chop the cilantro, and measure out all liquids.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Once hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While shrimp are cooking, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour this mixture over cooked shrimp once they are done.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Let everything simmer together for another minute or two so that the shrimp absorb some of that delicious sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Transfer to a serving platter, garnishing with optional pineapple chunks or lime wedges if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Serving Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its tropical flavors.
With Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, it absorbs the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- Coconut Rice: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the shrimp’s flavor.
As Tacos
- Shrimp Tacos: Serve in soft corn tortillas with avocado, salsa, and cabbage for a fresh twist.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps with shrimp and toppings.
On a Salad
- Tropical Salad: Combine mixed greens, mango slices, and macadamia nuts with the shrimp for a refreshing dish.
- Caesar Salad: Top a classic Caesar salad with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp for an island-inspired variation.
With Garnishes
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle extra cilantro on top for added freshness and color.
- Pineapple Chunks: Add fresh pineapple chunks to bring in more sweetness and texture.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To achieve the best version of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and pineapple juice will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook until just pink to maintain tenderness; overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more lime juice or honey based on your preference.
- Sear at High Heat: A hot pan will give your shrimp a nice sear, intensifying their flavor while keeping them juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and flavor; grill alongside the shrimp for simplicity.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw balances the richness of the garlic butter; try adding tropical fruits like mango or pineapple.
- Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread help soak up the delicious sauce from the shrimp; perfect for dipping!
- Fried Rice: A quick fried rice makes an excellent accompaniment; toss in peas and carrots for added nutrition.
- Quinoa Salad: This nutty grain provides protein and complements the dish well when mixed with herbs and citrus dressing.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled sweet corn adds a seasonal touch; serve it with lime butter for extra zest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp has a better texture and flavor. If you must use frozen, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Watch closely to avoid a rubbery texture; they should be opaque and curled.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the shrimp can result in bland flavors. Take time to let them soak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing flavors. Don’t skip this step; season generously.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The best dishes start with quality ingredients. Opt for fresh garlic and real butter for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delicious seafood dish featuring shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, often served with rice.
How do I make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp spicy?
To add spice, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the shrimp. This gives an extra kick of heat.
Can I use other seafood besides shrimp?
Yes! You can substitute shrimp with scallops or fish, but adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with tropical flavors that transport you straight to paradise. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Hawaii at home!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that takes you straight to the tropics with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce enhanced with pineapple juice and fresh cilantro. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at summer gatherings. Serve it over rice, as tacos, or atop a fresh salad for a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. With its quick preparation and burst of tropical flavors, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Peel and devein shrimp if not done; mince garlic and chop cilantro.
- Heat skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt olive oil with 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Make sauce: Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, salt, and pepper; pour over cooked shrimp.
- Finish cooking: Simmer for another minute to let flavors meld.
- Serve: Stir in chopped cilantro and transfer to a serving platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
