Picture this: the sun setting over a Hawaiian beach, the salty breeze gently brushing against your face as you savor each bite of a succulent dish that bursts with flavor. That experience can be yours in just 15 minutes with this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe! I discovered this gem while flipping through my favorite travel cookbook, and I couldn’t resist the allure of juicy shrimp bathed in a rich garlic and butter sauce.
With its addictive taste and vibrant aroma, this dish transforms your kitchen into a coastal paradise, making weeknight dinners exciting again. No more boring meals or fast food fatigue! Instead, feast on tender shrimp coated in spices that dance on your palate and awaken your senses. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal for one or a crowd-pleasing dish to share with friends, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a glorious escape that brings joy to the dinner table. Let’s dive in and transport ourselves to Hawaii with every delicious bite!
Why will you love Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Quick & Easy: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Garlic Lovers Rejoice: If you adore garlic, this dish is a savory dream come true. The generous use of fresh garlic creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with steamed rice, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to suit your cravings and impress dinner guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish’s rich flavor profile is sure to delight everyone at your table, transforming any dinner into a festive occasion.
Unique Inspiration: Inspired by Hawaii’s famous food trucks, this recipe captures the essence of tropical flavors right in your home. With such a delightful recipe, say goodbye to bland meals and explore something truly inspiring!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
Ready to create a flavorful tropic getaway at home?
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and tender texture.
• Flour – Helps create a slight crispiness on the shrimp while absorbing flavors.
For the Garlic Sauce
• Butter – Adds richness; substitute with olive oil for a lighter version if desired.
• Garlic (10-12 cloves, minced) – The star of the dish; always use fresh for the best flavor.
For the Seasoning
• Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Provides a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Cayenne (1/8 teaspoon) & Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon) – Gives a spicy kick; adjust to your spice preference.
• Sea Salt & Freshly Ground Pepper – Enhance the overall flavor, so adjust to taste as necessary.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to making delightful Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Pat Dry: Begin by patting your shrimp dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps the flour adhere better, making for a crispier texture.
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Mix Seasoning: In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, cayenne, red pepper flakes, along with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Toss the shrimp in this flavorful mixture until they are thoroughly coated.
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Heat the Skillet: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, and add butter. Allow it to melt considerably, giving it a chance to heat evenly.
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Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it; you want the garlic to turn fragrant without burning, as garlic can quickly go from perfect to overdone.
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Cook the Shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook until they turn opaque halfway—about 2-3 minutes. Flip them over and cook for another couple of minutes until fully cooked and vibrant.
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Serve Immediately: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp right away. Drizzle that luscious garlic butter sauce from the pan over the shrimp for extra flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest shrimp and garlic available. Freshness enhances the flavor of your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, making it taste even better.
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Pat Dry: Ensure your shrimp are patted dry before coating them in flour. This step helps achieve a crispy texture and allows the flavors to stick.
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Watch the Garlic: Sauté minced garlic carefully; it can burn quickly. Remove it from heat as soon as it becomes fragrant to prevent bitterness in your dish.
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Single Layer Cooking: Cook the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. This allows for even cooking, ensuring every piece is perfectly tender and flavorful.
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Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to tweak the cayenne and red pepper flakes to meet your spice preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment until it’s just right for you!
Variations & Substitutions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps to make this dish your own!
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Scallops: Swap shrimp for scallops for a luxurious, sweet flavor that complements the garlic beautifully. Perfect for those special occasions or just to indulge yourself!
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Olive Oil: Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter dish with a Mediterranean flair. This swap keeps the flavors vibrant while being a bit healthier.
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Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley or cilantro before serving for a burst of freshness and color. The herbs bring an aromatic touch that uplifts this dish wonderfully.
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Citrus Splash: Incorporate a splash of lemon or lime juice after cooking for a zesty twist. It brightens the overall flavor, making each bite refreshing and exciting.
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Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli while cooking the shrimp for an extra crunch and nutrition boost. This creates a colorful, vibrant presentation.
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Spicy Variation: Amp up the heat by adding more cayenne or red pepper flakes, or introducing sliced jalapeños. This twist is for those who love a fiery kick with their seafood!
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Coconut Cream: Stir in a dollop of coconut cream for a rich, tropical essence. This addition enhances creaminess and pairs beautifully with the garlic and butter sauce.
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Quinoa or Pasta Base: Serve over quinoa or your favorite pasta instead of rice for a hearty twist. This change turns the dish into a filling and wholesome meal ideal for any time of the day.
Storage Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you want to store it longer, freeze the cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Place a piece of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid high heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Enjoy Fresh: For the best taste experience, enjoy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp fresh, as the flavors and texture are at their peak right after cooking!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Imagine a table filled with vibrant colors and delightful aromas, ready to elevate your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp experience to a meal that sings of coastal joy.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate flavor and soft texture of jasmine rice soak up the rich garlic sauce beautifully, bringing balance to the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread not only emulates the garlic essence in the shrimp but also provides a delightful way to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness, providing a zesty contrast to the rich shrimp.
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Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy pineapple salsa adds refreshing notes that marry perfectly with the garlic shrimp, creating a blissful tropical harmony on your plate.
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Coconut Rice: Coconut-infused rice brings a subtle sweetness and unique texture to the table, tying in with the Hawaiian theme and complementing the savory richness of the shrimp.
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Mojito Mocktail: A refreshing lime and mint mocktail brightens the palate and harmonizes beautifully with the shrimp’s bold flavors, making it an ideal drink pairing for a tropical feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the shrimp by coating them in the seasoned flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can minced garlic ahead of time and keep it refrigerated in a tightly sealed container to maintain its vibrant flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply sauté the garlic in butter, add the shrimp, and cook until they turn nice and opaque. This way, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, letting you savor those rich, garlicky flavors without the last-minute rush!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use large, fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that have a firm body and a slight seawater smell, ensuring they’re at their freshest.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
You can store any leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to consume it within this timeframe to enjoy its best flavors.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. If you stack them, add parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Why did my garlic burn while cooking Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Very! Garlic burns quickly and can turn bitter, so it’s essential to sauté it for only about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. If you’re using larger shrimp, you can add the minced garlic to the skillet after the shrimp have started cooking to prevent burning.
Is this recipe suitable for those with seafood allergies?
Unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based substitutes or explore alternative seafood options, but always check for allergens!
What do I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
I often serve it with steamed rice, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of color and freshness!
Savor Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in Just 15 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by patting your shrimp dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, cayenne, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until coated.
- Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, and add butter. Allow it to melt.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook until they turn opaque, about 2-3 minutes; flip and cook for another couple of minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, drizzling the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp.
