Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp is a savory and aromatic dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. The garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp, while the seasoning brings out the vibrant tropical flavors. With a short cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a simple yet indulgent meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad!

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (with tails on or off)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice for a more tropical twist)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for umami)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp:

• Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures that the shrimp sear properly in the pan.

• Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper, and set them aside.

2. Cook the shrimp:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook very quickly. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the garlic butter sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

• Add the lemon juice and soy sauce (if using), and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for another minute to meld the flavors together.

4. Combine the shrimp and sauce:

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the shrimp are well coated in the sauce.

5. Garnish and serve:

• Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve the Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

6. Serve:

• Serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed rice, alongside a fresh salad, or with roasted vegetables. You can also serve them as an appetizer with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to the skillet when cooking the garlic and butter sauce for added texture and flavor.

• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some red pepper flakes to make the dish spicier.

• Coconut twist: For a tropical flair, substitute the butter with coconut oil and add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, coconut-infused finish.

• Pineapple: Add fresh pineapple chunks to the dish for a sweet and savory combination that’s even more reminiscent of Hawaiian flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, but be careful not to overheat the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp is best served fresh, as shrimp cook quickly and can lose their texture when reheated. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then quickly cook the shrimp when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use shrimp without tails?

Yes, you can use shrimp without tails if you prefer, though shrimp with tails on often look more appealing and add extra flavor. Tails are also easier to handle when serving as an appetizer.

What else can I serve with Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp?

In addition to rice, you can serve this dish with quinoa, a side salad, or even a light pasta dish. Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or corn, pair beautifully with the shrimp as well.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors. With a savory garlic-butter sauce, a hint of heat, and the sweetness of shrimp, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for any seafood lover. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is an easy way to bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen.

---

Print