Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
If you crave a vibrant and flavorful seafood dish that transports you right to the sunny shores of the islands, this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a perfect balance of spices, this recipe delivers a quick yet mouthwatering meal that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether you’re feeding guests or indulging in a weeknight treat, this dish brings that iconic Hawaiian flair right to your table with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe is easier than you think. Each element plays a crucial role, from the boldness of the garlic to the buttery richness that ties everything together. These ingredients not only build layers of flavor but create the perfect texture and visual appeal that make this dish irresistibly good.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best succulent bite that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 10 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that punchy aroma and flavor that defines the dish.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps create a subtle coating that locks in moisture and ensures a lovely sear.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and a warm color that brightens up the shrimp.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Brings a gentle heat to wake up your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The key to that rich, silky sauce that clings to each shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the butter from burning and adds a beautiful fruity undertone.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Offers brightness and a zingy contrast to the buttery sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A fresh herbal pop of color and flavor to finish the dish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: For that extra citrus kick at the table.
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Shrimp
Begin by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a mix of all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper if you’re using it, salt, and black pepper. This coating helps to develop a subtle crust on the shrimp, sealing in those sweet juices and creating a slight crispiness when cooked. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful here because garlic can burn quickly, and burnt garlic will introduce bitterness instead of that delightful pungent aroma we want. This step infuses the butter and oil with rich garlic flavor that will coat the shrimp perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Place the seasoned shrimp in your hot skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes on one side; this searing will give them a beautiful pink color and slight caramelization. Then flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp are fully opaque and just cooked through. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so patience here pays off.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Parsley
Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss them gently in the skillet to coat every bite with that zesty brightness. Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley. This finishing touch adds a fresh contrast in flavor and makes the dish visually inviting and vibrant.
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Serving with lemon wedges on the side is a must because guests love that ability to brighten or mellow the flavors with additional citrus juice. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or even a light dusting of paprika over the top can add visual appeal and an inviting aroma right at the table.
Side Dishes
This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe shines alongside a bed of fluffy white rice, which soaks up every bit of the luscious garlic butter sauce. For something lighter, steamed or grilled vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or even a fresh mango salsa bring complementary textures and flavors that feel tropical and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp over coconut rice to dial up the island vibes and add a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and spice. Another fun idea is to pile the shrimp into soft tortillas with fresh slaw and creamy sauce for a Hawaiian-inspired shrimp taco that is sure to be a crowd favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store the cooked garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture and the freshness of the sauce. Remember to let it cool down before refrigerating to keep flavors intact.
Freezing
This recipe can be frozen, but shrimp tend to lose some texture after freezing and thawing. If you freeze it, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Use within 1 month for the best flavor, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking and drying them out. Adding a splash of olive oil or butter can help refresh the sauce. Microwaving is possible but tends to make the shrimp chewy, so stove top reheating is always preferred.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before tossing with the seasoning mixture to ensure they brown nicely and don’t steam during cooking.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
The cayenne pepper is optional and adds a gentle kick. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder flavor, or adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option like rice flour or cornstarch to keep that great coating without gluten.
What can I serve instead of rice?
While white rice is the classic pairing, you can also serve the shrimp with quinoa, couscous, or even a crisp green salad for a lighter meal.
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
The Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe is wonderfully quick, requiring about 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe that makes it both a comforting classic and a little tropical escape all in one. With its robust garlic flavor, buttery richness, and vibrant freshness, it’s a dish that feels like a celebration on a plate. I encourage you to try it soon—once you do, this recipe might become one of your family’s favorite go-tos for seafood night!
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Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent, large shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with a hint of paprika and cayenne pepper. Enhanced with fresh lemon juice and parsley, this dish delivers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and citrusy notes, making it an easy yet impressive main course ideal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce and Garnishes
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. Set the shrimp aside while preparing the skillet.
- Heat butter and oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter along with the olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely and the mixture to become hot.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Cook the shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the shrimp begin to turn pink and opaque, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side.
- Add lemon juice and parsley: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp and toss them gently to coat in the sauce. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp.
- Serve: Serve the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp hot with lemon wedges on the side and optionally white rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- This dish is traditionally served with white rice and lemon wedges to complement the flavorful shrimp.
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 15 minutes before cooking.
- If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce cooking time to just about 1 minute per side to avoid overcooking and rubbery texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
