Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors in every bite. This easy recipe features tender shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, enriched with the sweetness of pineapple and the tang of lime. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, it brings Hawaii’s vibrant culinary spirit to your table, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and pineapple juice creates an irresistible sauce that enhances the shrimp.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice for a hearty meal or enjoy it as a light appetizer at your next gathering.
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe offers a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp appeals to seafood lovers and those new to shrimp dishes alike.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp effectively, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you will need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows even heat distribution, ensuring shrimp cook perfectly without becoming rubbery.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for efficiently mincing garlic and chopping cilantro while enhancing safety in the kitchen.
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
- 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
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Allow them to melt together until they start to bubble.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice. Stir well to combine everything.
Step 6: Simmer
Let everything simmer for about 2 minutes so that flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with optional garnishes like pineapple chunks or lime wedges. Enjoy your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Serving Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can elevate your dining experience and transport you to the tropical shores of Hawaii. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance this flavorful dish.
With Steamed Rice
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice makes a great base for the shrimp, soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Over Salad
- A fresh green salad topped with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp adds crunch and freshness, making it a light and healthy option.
In Tacos
- Use soft tortillas to create shrimp tacos, topped with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist on serving.
With Grilled Pineapple
- Grilled pineapple slices add a sweet contrast to the savory shrimp, enhancing the tropical flavor profile of the dish.
As an Appetizer
- Serve smaller portions of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp as an appetizer, garnished with lime wedges for easy sharing at gatherings.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To achieve the best results with your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp provide a better texture and flavor compared to frozen options. If using frozen, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.
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Control heat carefully: Cooking at medium-high heat allows shrimp to cook quickly without becoming rubbery. Watch closely for that perfect pink color.
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Customize flavors: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by using more or less honey or brown sugar based on your taste preference.
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Add spice: For some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha into the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.
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Garnish wisely: Fresh cilantro and lime wedges not only enhance presentation but also add vibrant freshness to each bite.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can enhance your meal and create a balanced plate. Here are some excellent options:
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Coconut Rice: This creamy rice dish complements the tropical flavors of the shrimp perfectly, providing a subtle sweetness.
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Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the shrimp.
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Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa brings bright acidity and sweetness that pairs well with the garlicky shrimp.
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Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy element that contrasts nicely with the buttery shrimp.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables offers a protein-packed side that’s both hearty and refreshing.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes makes a hearty side that complements the savory garlic notes in the shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp provide better flavor and texture. If you must use frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Each ingredient contributes to the flavor. Taste your sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
- Skipping the garlic: Garlic is essential for this dish’s flavor profile. Use fresh minced garlic rather than powdered for the best results.
- Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro and lime enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise. Don’t skip them!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful seafood dish made with shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, often served with rice.
How do I make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Yes, but make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking for best results.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs well with jasmine rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad.
How long does it take to cook Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
The cooking time is quick; it takes around 15 minutes once your ingredients are prepped.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is an irresistible dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color. Enjoy this taste of Hawaii right at home!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that transports you to the tropical shores of Hawaii with its vibrant flavors. This quick and easy recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce enhanced by the sweetness of pineapple juice and a zesty kick from fresh lime. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a favorite among seafood lovers and novices alike. In just 25 minutes, you can create a memorable meal that embodies the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.
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
- Gather all ingredients and prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter until melted.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice; stir to combine.
- Simmer for about 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Stir in chopped cilantro before serving immediately with optional garnishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
