Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Hawaii. This recipe features juicy shrimp enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it ideal for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. Its tropical flavors and quick preparation time make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends. The combination of garlic, butter, and hints of sweetness transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce combined with pineapple juice and ginger creates a unique taste that transports you straight to Hawaii.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp over rice, alongside veggies, or simply enjoy it on its own.
- Healthy Delight: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is a great option for health-conscious eaters.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: Garnish with fresh cilantro and pineapple chunks for an appealing look that will impress guests.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to achieve the perfect sear on your shrimp.
- Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and cilantro without mess.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through ingredients easier and safer, speeding up your prep time.
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 the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt completely.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté 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 one side until they turn pink. Flip them over to cook the other side.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture into the skillet with cooked shrimp.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked through. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top as a garnish. Serve warm with rice or your favorite side dishes! Enjoy your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a casual meal or something more festive, these serving suggestions will help elevate your dining experience.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve the shrimp over steamed jasmine or sushi rice for a filling meal that soaks up the delicious sauce.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair the shrimp with a vibrant green salad topped with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
As Tacos
- Use tortillas to create shrimp tacos, adding toppings like slaw, avocado, and lime for an extra burst of flavor.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Accompany the dish with grilled vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to add color and nutrition to your plate.
As Appetizers
- Serve small portions of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp as appetizers at your next gathering. Skewers or small cups can make it easy for guests to enjoy.
Garnished with Pineapple
- Add pineapple chunks on top while serving. This not only enhances presentation but also complements the tropical flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To make your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor profile of this dish.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook until just pink and opaque for tender, juicy shrimp that are not rubbery.
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Balance flavors: Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or brown sugar according to your taste preferences.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or additional spices like paprika for depth.
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Garnish creatively: Use fresh cilantro and lime wedges as garnishes to add color and freshness right before serving.
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Marinate for extra flavor: Letting the shrimp sit in the marinade for 30 minutes before cooking can intensify its taste.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.
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Coconut Rice
This sweet and creamy rice is made with coconut milk, giving it an indulgent taste that pairs perfectly with garlic shrimp. -
Grilled Pineapple
Sweet, caramelized pineapple slices bring a delightful contrast. Grill them until golden brown for an added smoky flavor. -
Coleslaw
A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture. Consider using a tangy dressing to balance the richness of the shrimp. -
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs provides extra nutrients while being refreshing alongside the shrimp. -
Mango Salsa
Bright mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, offering an exciting twist that complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully. -
Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn brushed with butter can be an enjoyable side dish that adds sweetness and crunch to your meal. -
Garlic Bread
Serve warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce from your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp—it’s a delicious way to enjoy every bite! -
Stir-Fried Broccoli
Quickly stir-fried broccoli offers color and nutrients while adding a slightly bitter contrast that balances well with sweet shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp yields the best flavor and texture. If you can, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them tough. Cook until they are just opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Ignoring the garlic: Garlic is a key flavor in this recipe. Sauté it gently to avoid burning, which can create a bitter taste.
- Not marinating enough: Allowing your shrimp to marinate enhances their flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes for the best results.
- Skipping the garnishes: Garnishes like lime wedges and cilantro add freshness and brighten the dish. Don’t skip this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts on medium power, stirring occasionally to avoid uneven heating.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp that might help you while preparing this delightful dish.
What makes Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp special?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is special because of its vibrant flavors from garlic and pineapple juice, capturing the essence of tropical cuisine.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes! You can substitute shrimp with scallops or fish for a different twist while keeping the same delicious sauce.
How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This recipe is not spicy at all. If you like heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not just quick and easy but also bursting with flavors that transport you straight to Hawaii. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level with honey. This dish is perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings—so be sure to give it a try!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant, flavorful dish that encapsulates the spirit of tropical cuisine. This quick and easy recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, accented with sweet pineapple juice and a hint of ginger. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering experience. Serve it over rice or with fresh salad for a delightful meal that transports your taste buds to Hawaii. Impress your family and friends with this delectable seafood dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy, making it an excellent option for any occasion.
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 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining them.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
- Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer; cook for 2-3 minutes until pink, then flip to cook the other side.
- Mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl; pour over shrimp.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are cooked through; stir in remaining butter until melted.
- Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
