Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Hawaii with its vibrant flavors and fragrant garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a tropical-themed party. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy nights while still delivering a taste of paradise that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, pineapple juice, and ginger creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, alongside vegetables, or as an appetizer; it fits any meal setting.
- Healthy Option: With shrimp as the main protein source, this dish is low in carbs and rich in nutrients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish appeals to seafood lovers and those new to shrimp dishes alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows even heat distribution, ensuring that the shrimp cook perfectly without sticking.
- Measuring cups: Precise measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in the sauce.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and cilantro quick and easy.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 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
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
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro as needed.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a skillet over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the large shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink. Flip them over to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Create The Sauce
While cooking the shrimp, mix together in a bowl: ½ cup pineapple juice, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1 tablespoon lime juice. Pour this mixture over the cooked shrimp.
Step 6: Simmer
Let everything simmer together for another minute or two until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with optional garnishes like pineapple chunks or lime wedges. Enjoy your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, these serving suggestions will help you create the perfect meal.
With Steamed Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- Coconut Rice: Add a tropical twist by cooking your rice with coconut milk for a richer flavor.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Green Salad: Serve the shrimp over a fresh salad for a light and refreshing option.
- Spinach Salad: Combining sautéed spinach with garlic shrimp provides added nutrition and flavor.
As Tacos
- Shrimp Tacos: Use warm tortillas, add the shrimp, and top with cilantro and lime for a fun twist.
- Pineapple Salsa Tacos: Enhance your tacos with sweet pineapple salsa for added freshness.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilled vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate while balancing the richness of the shrimp.
- Corn on the Cob: A classic summer side dish that pairs well with Hawaiian flavors.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Perfecting Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is all about balancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Mix Flavors: Experiment with adding chili flakes for heat or fresh herbs like basil for added depth.
- Marinate for Flavor: Letting the shrimp soak in marinade allows for deeper flavor penetration.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste, serve your shrimp right after cooking while it’s still hot.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp. Each complements the rich flavors of the dish while providing variety.
- Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of vegetables and soy sauce adds great texture and flavor.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side option.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies can enhance nutritional value without overpowering flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce; it’s always a favorite!
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds elegance and goes well with seafood dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp makes a big difference in flavor and texture. If possible, buy fresh shrimp for the best results.
- Skipping the marination: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Marinate for at least 15 minutes for a better taste.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it rubbery. Cook until they turn pink and opaque for the best texture.
- Ignoring the garlic: Garlic is key in this dish. Use fresh garlic instead of powdered to achieve that signature flavor.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasoning. Salt and pepper can elevate the dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Allow the shrimp to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a splash of water or broth until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp that you might have.
Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes! This recipe works well with scallops or fish like mahi-mahi, giving you different flavors while maintaining that delicious garlic sauce.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Pair it with steamed rice or quinoa for a balanced meal. Fresh veggies or a light salad also complement the dish nicely.
How spicy is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. Adjust according to your taste!
Is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s great for meal prepping as it reheats well and maintains its flavor when stored properly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Just cook them fresh right before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors straight to your table. Its simplicity allows for customization; feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness level. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a taste of paradise!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant dish that embodies the essence of Hawaii with its rich garlic butter sauce and succulent shrimp. Perfect for busy weeknights or tropical-themed gatherings, this recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare while delivering an unforgettable taste of paradise. The delightful blend of garlic, pineapple juice, and ginger creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. This versatile dish can be served over rice, alongside fresh vegetables, or even as tasty tacos, making it suitable for various meal settings. Enjoy a healthy option that’s low in carbs and packed with nutrients, making it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and newcomers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp, mincing the garlic, and chopping the cilantro.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with butter and olive oil until melted.
- Sauté minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink.
- Mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and lime juice in a bowl; pour over shrimp.
- Simmer for another minute; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
