Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful seafood dish that transports you to the beautiful shores of Hawaii. This recipe features plump shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly complemented by tropical flavors. It’s incredibly versatile, making it suitable for everything from casual dinners to festive gatherings. With its quick preparation and mouthwatering taste, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, pineapple juice, and lime creates a vibrant flavor profile that excites your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own as an appetizer; it fits any occasion.
- Healthier Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this shrimp dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its tropical flair makes Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a hit at parties or family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking, allowing the shrimp to sear beautifully.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife helps you quickly chop garlic and cilantro with precision.
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
- Extra cilantro
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the butter until melted.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.
Step 5: Add Sauces
Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ground ginger, and lime juice. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, pineapple chunks, and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately over rice or as is for a delightful experience!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, enhancing its tropical flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the delicious garlic butter sauce, making every bite flavorful.
With Grilled Pineapple
- Pair the shrimp with slices of grilled pineapple for a sweet and savory contrast. The caramelized edges of the pineapple add depth to the dish.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp on a bed of fresh greens. Drizzle with extra lime juice to brighten the flavors and create a refreshing salad.
Accompanied by Coconut Rice
- Coconut rice adds a creamy texture that complements the shrimp’s flavors perfectly. The subtle sweetness from coconut balances the garlic’s richness.
As Tacos
- Use tortillas to wrap Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp for fun and flavorful tacos. Top with cilantro and lime for an added zing.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Achieving the perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to make your dish truly exceptional.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and ingredients like garlic and cilantro will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking can make them tough.
- Balance Flavors: Adjust the sweetness with honey or brown sugar according to your taste preferences for a balanced dish.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Letting the shrimp marinate in pineapple juice and soy sauce for 15-30 minutes can boost flavor intensity.
- Add Spice if Desired: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishing with fresh cilantro or lime wedges to enhance presentation and flavor depth.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice filled with vegetables makes for a delicious side that absorbs excess sauce beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing the richness of the garlic shrimp.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies provide color and nutrients while harmonizing with tropical flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs brings out the freshness in your meal without overpowering it.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is always a crowd favorite, offering simplicity alongside bold flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a hearty base that pairs well with rich sauces like garlic butter.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness while providing a satisfying crunch on the side.
- Garlic Bread: Enjoy garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, adding an Italian twist to your tropical meal!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some important steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and presentation.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and cilantro enhance flavor. Dried versions won’t give the same result, so opt for fresh whenever possible.
- Not marinating long enough: Allowing shrimp to soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Using low-quality butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. Always choose high-quality butter for a rich taste.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. You may need extra lime juice or salt to achieve the perfect balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container.
- It will last for 2-3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delicious seafood dish featuring shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with tropical elements like pineapple juice.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking and better texture.
How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili if you prefer some heat!
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or vegetables. You could also serve it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with tropical flavors that everyone will love. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. Enjoy this delectable dish any night of the week!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant seafood dish that brings the taste of the tropics to your table. Featuring succulent shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is infused with sweet pineapple juice and zesty lime, creating a delightful flavor explosion. Perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can be served over rice, in tacos, or on its own as an appetizer. With its quick preparation time of just 25 minutes and crowd-pleasing qualities, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Peel and devein shrimp; mince garlic and chop cilantro.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter until melted.
- Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp; season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Stir in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ginger, and lime juice; simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat; garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
