Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce and hints of sweetness from pineapple juice. It’s an excellent choice for various occasions, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a festive beach-themed gathering. The unique blend of ingredients makes this dish stand out, ensuring your taste buds are treated to a little slice of paradise.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and pineapple creates a mouthwatering flavor that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, toss it in pasta, or enjoy it on its own; Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp adapts to your preferences.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a special gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone.
Tools and Preparation
To make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, having the right tools is essential for achieving the best results. Here’s what you need to prepare this scrumptious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp.
- Spatula: This tool allows you to easily flip and mix the shrimp without damaging them.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that the flavors are balanced.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and cilantro quick and efficient.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
- 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 Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined, garlic is minced, and cilantro is chopped.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil along with unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Add Shrimp
Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink.
Step 5: Create Sauce Mixture
In a small bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp in the skillet. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with optional garnishes like pineapple chunks or lime wedges for added flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.
With Coconut Rice
- Coconut rice pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, adding a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that complements the shrimp’s flavors.
On a Bed of Mixed Greens
- Serve the shrimp on a bed of fresh mixed greens for a light, healthy meal. Drizzle with extra lime juice for added zest.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to your plate. Their charred flavor enhances the tropical taste of the shrimp.
In Tacos
- Turn Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp into delicious tacos. Use corn tortillas and top with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a tasty twist.
Over Quinoa
- For a nutritious option, serve the shrimp over quinoa. This adds protein and makes the meal even more filling.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
To achieve the best flavors in your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
- Don’t overcook: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more garlic or lime juice according to your preference.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can enhance its tropical appeal. Here are some great options:
- Fried Rice: A classic choice, fried rice adds a savory bite that contrasts nicely with the sweet shrimp.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and crunch, balancing the rich garlic butter sauce.
- Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa adds brightness and acidity that complements the dish perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce—it’s simply irresistible!
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish elevates your meal with refreshing flavors that pair well with seafood.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add heartiness while allowing the shrimp’s flavors to shine through.
- Grilled Pineapple: Sweet caramelized pineapple pieces bring out the tropical essence of this dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn on the cob is simple yet delightful alongside flavorful shrimp.
These sides make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp even more enjoyable and create a memorable dining experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the shrimp in pineapple juice can lead to less flavor. Allow the shrimp to soak for at least 10 minutes for optimal taste.
- Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough. Aim for just a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients – Using pre-minced garlic or bottled juices can diminish flavor. Fresh garlic and juice yield the best results.
- Not balancing flavors – Forgetting to adjust sweetness or acidity can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and tweak with lime juice or honey.
- Neglecting presentation – Serving without garnishes like cilantro or lime can make your dish less appealing. A little garnish enhances both look and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread shrimp on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and sauté until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp that may help you with your cooking process.
What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a flavorful seafood dish featuring large shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with tropical flavors.
How do I make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. This substitution maintains the flavor while ensuring it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its tropical flavors transport you straight to paradise, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level. Give it a try, and bring a taste of Hawaii into your kitchen!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant dish that brings the taste of the tropics to your table in just minutes. This easy recipe features succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, enhanced by the sweetness of fresh pineapple juice and zesty lime. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this dish captivates with its mouthwatering flavors and delightful aroma. Whether served over rice, tossed into tacos, or enjoyed alone, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp promises to be a hit with family and friends alike.
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, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: Peel shrimp, mince garlic, and chop cilantro.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted.
- Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink.
- In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the shrimp and stir to coat evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked.
- Stir in fresh cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
