A waft of garlic and butter transports me straight to the sunny shores of Hawaii as I whip up this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe. It’s not just a meal; it’s a vibrant escape that promises a taste of tropical bliss in under 20 minutes. This quick and flavorful delight features succulent shrimp shimmering in a luscious garlicky sauce that friends and family will rave about. Whether you’re celebrating a weekend feast or spicing up a weeknight dinner, this dish showcases the beauty of simplicity with easily customizable ingredients. Ready to make your kitchen feel like a tropical paradise? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together! Why is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try? Speedy Preparation: This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights without skimping on flavor. Irresistible Aroma: The scent of garlic and butter sizzling will have everyone flocking to the kitchen in anticipation. Flavor Explosion: With every bite, you’ll experience a tropical taste that dances on your palate, thanks to the perfect balance of spices. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, tucked into tacos, or paired with garlic bread for a feast that fits any occasion. If you’re in the mood for more shrimp inspiration, don’t miss the delicious Cajun Pasta Shrimp or zesty Spicy Shrimp Tacos! Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels with a kick of cayenne or switch up the herbs to suit your taste. This dish is as flexible as it is tasty! Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients For the Shrimp • Shrimp – Fresh shrimp are preferred for the best flavor and texture. • Flour – Helps create a light crust around the shrimp for added texture. For the Sauce • Butter – Adds richness and depth to the garlicky butter sauce. • Olive Oil – Prevents the butter from burning and adds a fruity flavor. • Garlic – The key ingredient that gives this dish its mouthwatering aroma. For Flavoring • Paprika – Provides depth and a subtle smokiness; a must for flavor! • Cayenne Pepper – Optional, but adds a delightful heat to the dish; adjust to your taste. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile. For the Finish • Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and adds a refreshing acidity. • Parsley – Optional, but it adds a pop of freshness and color to your plate. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Step 1: Prep Shrimp Start by patting the fresh shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear perfectly. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. This spice mix and light coating will add flavor and texture to your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, preparing them for cooking. Step 2: Heat Skillet Heat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, watching for it to foam and turn light golden, which takes about 2 minutes. This mixture creates the perfect base for your garlic sauce and provides flavor for the shrimp. Step 3: Sauté Garlic Once the butter has melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant but does not turn brown. This step ensures the garlic infuses the butter with its rich aroma, making your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp even more delicious. Step 4: Cook Shrimp Carefully add the coated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Allow them to cook for about 2 minutes until they turn pink on one side. Gently flip the shrimp over and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they are just cooked through and opaque. This quick cooking process keeps the shrimp tender and juicy. Step 5: Finish Dish Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, tossing gently to combine. This brightens the dish, complementing the rich garlic butter sauce beautifully. If desired, garnish your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Step 6: Serve Immediately Serve your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp hot, still glistening in the buttery garlic sauce. Pair it with warm, crusty bread, steamed rice, or your favorite salad. The tropical flavors will transport you to sunny shores while providing a delightful dining experience! How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the shrimp’s texture. Freezer: If you want to save leftovers, freeze shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on low heat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or butter to keep the shrimp tender and flavorful. Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Variations Feel free to put your own spin on this dish to create a unique tropical experience that titillates your taste buds! Spicy Upgrade: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes for an exhilarating heat that awakens the palate. Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk to the butter sauce for a luscious, creamy layer that complements the shrimp beautifully. Zesty Citrus: Replace lemon juice with fresh lime juice for a brighter, tangy taste that screams tropical paradise. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fragrant twist that adds freshness and vibrant color to your dish. Seafood Variety: Swap shrimp with scallops or firm white fish for a whole new vibe. The flavors meld beautifully, offering a delightful alternative! Veggie Boost: Toss in cooked snap peas or bell peppers to give a colorful crunch and an extra nutrient kick to your meal. Garlic Lover’s Dream: Don’t hold back on extra garlic; a few additional minced cloves sautéed will enrich the flavor and aroma, turning this dish into a garlic lover’s paradise. Tropical Bed: Serve shrimp on a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which adds nutty flavor and texture, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. If you’re craving more shrimp dishes, check out the delightfully tangy Honey Garlic Glazed or the comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Your taste buds will thank you! What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp? Elevate your dining experience with vibrant accompaniments that perfectly complement this tropical shrimp dish. Steamed White Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the rich garlic butter sauce, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread for dipping is perfect for soaking up the irresistible sauce, enhancing your meal bustling with garlicky goodness. Mango Salad: A fresh mango salad adds a sweet, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the shrimp while bringing a burst of color to your plate. Grilled Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus offers a slight crunch and earthy flavor, making it a fabulous pairing with the succulent shrimp. Pineapple Salsa: A zesty pineapple salsa introduces a refreshing sweetness that echoes the tropical essence of the dish, providing a lively contrast. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice adds a hint of sweetness and a soft texture, harmonizing beautifully with the savory shrimp for a tropical feast. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A cool lemonade or refreshing iced tea offers a perfect balance to the savory flavors, making your meal feel even more special. Tropical Fruit Platter: Conclude your meal with a colorful platter of tropical fruits like kiwi, pineapple, and papaya for a light and refreshing finish. Expert Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh shrimp rather than frozen for the best flavor and texture. This really elevates your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp! Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook; overcooked shrimp become rubbery. They should be pink and opaque when done. Custom Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper for your preferred heat; just start with a smaller amount and taste before adding more. Perfect Garlic Sauté: Sauté garlic until fragrant but avoid browning it; burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce. Serving Suggestions: Serve your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with warm garlic bread or over fluffy rice to soak up that delicious sauce and enhance the flavors! Make Ahead Options These Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are fantastic for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prep the shrimp by tossing them with flour, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper and refrigerate for up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, the garlic can be minced and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, preserving its flavor and aroma. Just remember to keep the shrimp and garlic separate until you’re ready to cook to maintain the best quality. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, heat the skillet with oil and butter, sauté the garlic, and follow the cooking steps for the shrimp to achieve that delicious taste you love, all with minimal effort! Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs What type of shrimp should I use for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp? Absolutely, using fresh shrimp is ideal for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. How should I store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or butter to keep them moist and prevent rubberiness. Can I freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp? Yes, you can freeze it! Start by laying the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about an hour. After they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. What should I do if my garlic browns while sautéing? If your garlic turns brown, it may taste bitter, but don’t worry! Just remove it from the pan immediately if you notice it starting to brown and start a fresh batch with new butter and oil. Sauté the garlic on medium-low heat for about 30 seconds to prevent burning in the future. Are there any dietary considerations for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp? Definitely! While this dish is generally safe for most, be cautious of shrimp allergies; they’re one of the top allergens. Also, feel free to substitute butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version, ensuring a delightful flavor profile without the dairy! Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Your 20-Minute Tropical Bliss Experience the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in under 20 minutes. A delightful garlic and butter-infused dish that will transport your taste buds. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound Fresh shrimp Preferred over frozen for best flavor and texture1/4 cup Flour Helps create a light crust around the shrimpFor the Sauce4 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and depth to the sauce2 tablespoons Olive oil Prevents butter from burning4 cloves Garlic Minced, key for aromaFor Flavoring1 teaspoon Paprika Provides depth and a subtle smokiness1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional for added heat1 teaspoon Salt1/2 teaspoon PepperFor the Finish1 tablespoon Lemon juice Adds brightness2 tablespoons Parsley Optional, for freshness Equipment 12-inch non-stick skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by patting the fresh shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss the shrimp with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.Heat a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding olive oil and butter. Melt completely for about 2 minutes.Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.Carefully add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes until pink on one side, then flip and cook for 2 more minutes.Remove from heat and drizzle lemon juice over shrimp, tossing gently. Garnish with parsley if desired.Serve hot with warm bread, rice, or salad. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesFresh shrimp are recommended for best flavor and texture. Be cautious with cooking time to avoid rubbery shrimp. Adjust spices to your taste preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
