Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Imagine yourself on the golden shores of Oahu’s North Shore, where the salty breeze mingles with the sizzling aroma of garlic butter shrimp from a food truck parked near the beach. That’s the essence of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, a simple yet explosively flavorful dish that embodies island life in every bite. This dish, often served with a scoop of rice and a wedge of lemon, has become a beloved staple for both locals and tourists alike.

The secret to its irresistible taste? A generous amount of fresh garlic, butter, and a touch of spice that coats each succulent shrimp. Traditionally, it’s made with shell-on shrimp, which not only keeps the meat juicy but also enhances the dish’s rich, buttery flavor. Unlike deep-fried shrimp, this recipe relies on pan-searing, creating a crisp exterior while maintaining a tender interior.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

The magic of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp lies in its simplicity, yet every bite bursts with bold, garlicky goodness. If you’re a seafood lover, this dish will quickly become a favorite, thanks to its restaurant-quality taste that you can achieve right at home.

The garlic-butter sauce is a game-changer. It’s rich, aromatic, and slightly spicy, clinging to the shrimp in the most addictive way possible. The balance of butter and olive oil ensures that the shrimp get a beautiful golden crust without becoming greasy. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and the dish transforms into a bright, zesty delight.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp (shell-on, deveined)
• 10 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for light coating)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Steamed white rice (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Leaving the shells on enhances the flavor, but if you prefer, you can peel them, leaving the tails intact for presentation.

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a small bowl, mix the paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Then, lightly dust the shrimp with all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, then swirl the pan to combine. Once the butter starts to bubble, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Carefully place the shrimp in a single layer in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy. The shells should have a slight char, and the inside should be tender and juicy.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp while they’re still in the pan. This enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the butter. Give everything a quick toss to ensure the shrimp are fully coated in the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the shrimp from the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, herby touch. Serve immediately with steamed white rice and lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.

Ingredient Background

The beauty of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Let’s start with the shrimp—the star of the dish. Hawaiian food trucks typically use large, shell-on shrimp, which lock in moisture and flavor as they cook. While peeled shrimp can be used, the shells provide a slight crunch and enhance the buttery, garlicky sauce. Fresh shrimp is always best, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

Garlic is another essential ingredient that gives this dish its signature taste. The key is to use fresh garlic, finely minced to maximize its aromatic power. When sautéed in butter, the garlic releases its deep, rich fragrance, coating the shrimp in a savory, slightly sweet intensity. Pre-minced garlic from a jar won’t give the same depth of flavor, so it’s always best to chop it fresh.

Lastly, butter and olive oil work together to create a luscious sauce. Butter adds richness and a silky texture, while olive oil helps prevent burning at high heat. The combination ensures that the shrimp get a crispy golden crust while remaining tender inside. The addition of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness and adding a zesty kick.

Technique Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Getting the perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp comes down to a few key techniques that can make or break the dish.

First, don’t overcrowd the pan. Shrimp cook quickly, and if they’re piled on top of each other, they’ll steam instead of sear. Cooking them in a single layer ensures that each piece gets that delicious golden-brown crust. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to maintain the best texture.

Another important tip is to monitor the heat. Since garlic is prone to burning, it’s best to sauté it over medium heat before increasing the temperature to sear the shrimp. If garlic burns, it turns bitter, which can overpower the dish. Stirring constantly and keeping an eye on the color will help you achieve that perfect fragrant, golden garlic.

Lastly, using the right shrimp matters. If possible, go for shell-on, wild-caught shrimp, which tend to have a sweeter, more robust flavor than farmed varieties. The shell acts as a natural barrier, keeping the inside juicy while absorbing the buttery, garlicky sauce. If you prefer peeled shrimp, keep the tails on for added visual appeal and flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is traditionally served with steamed rice, there are plenty of creative ways to present this dish.

For a tropical twist, try serving the shrimp in a hollowed-out pineapple bowl. The natural sweetness of the pineapple pairs beautifully with the garlicky shrimp, and the presentation is stunning. Simply cut a pineapple in half, scoop out the flesh (which you can dice and serve as a side), and pile the shrimp inside for a show-stopping meal.

Another unique idea is to turn the dish into a shrimp taco. Serve the shrimp in warm corn tortillas with a drizzle of garlic butter sauce, some shredded cabbage, and a squeeze of fresh lime. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a few slices of avocado will add an extra layer of freshness.

For a lighter, low-carb option, consider serving the shrimp over a bed of zucchini noodles or a crisp Hawaiian-inspired salad with mango, avocado, and a light vinaigrette. This keeps the dish fresh and healthy while still delivering all the delicious flavors.

Freezing and Storing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

If you have leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly to keep the shrimp fresh and flavorful.

For short-term storage, place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a pan over low heat with a bit of butter to keep the shrimp from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

To freeze the shrimp, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

For meal prep, you can make the garlic butter sauce separately and freeze it in an ice cube tray. When needed, just pop out a cube and melt it in a pan before adding freshly cooked shrimp for a quick, flavorful meal.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to enjoy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with a healthier spin? Here are some great ways to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.

First, swap out butter for ghee or reduce the butter content by half, replacing it with extra virgin olive oil. This keeps the dish rich but lowers the saturated fat. Ghee has a nutty flavor that still delivers the same indulgent taste with slightly healthier fats.

For a low-carb version, serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice instead of white rice. You can also use quinoa for added protein and fiber, making the meal more balanced.

Another option is to air-fry the shrimp instead of pan-searing them in butter. Lightly coat the shrimp with olive oil and seasonings, then air-fry at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method cuts down on fat while still achieving a crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering.

For a Hawaiian-themed party, serve the shrimp alongside tropical dishes like grilled pineapple, coconut rice, and fresh fruit skewers. A refreshing pineapple mango salsa on the side will add extra brightness to the meal.

At a summer barbecue, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with grilled corn on the cob and a crisp side salad. Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as a creamy garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo, for guests to enjoy.

For a romantic dinner, plate the shrimp elegantly with a side of herbed quinoa and a glass of fresh coconut water. The simplicity and rich flavors of the dish make it a perfect meal to impress a loved one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use peeled shrimp instead of shell-on shrimp?

Yes! While shell-on shrimp adds extra flavor, peeled shrimp work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

2. What kind of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp, preferably wild-caught, are best for this dish. They have a firmer texture and sweeter flavor compared to smaller shrimp.

3. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook garlic over medium heat and stir constantly. If it starts browning too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of olive oil to cool it down.

4. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

5. What sides go well with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Steamed rice, pineapple salsa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully.

6. Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Marinate the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce and grill them on skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side.

7. How do I reheat leftovers without making the shrimp rubbery?

Reheat gently in a pan with a little butter over low heat. Avoid microwaving.

8. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

9. What can I use instead of flour?

You can use cornstarch or skip the coating altogether for a lighter version.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of buttery garlic, tender shrimp, and a hint of spice makes every bite irresistible. Whether you serve it with rice, in tacos, or on a salad, this dish is a surefire hit. So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and enjoy the flavors of Hawaii from the comfort of home!

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