Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a beloved dish that transports you straight to the islands with its bold flavors and tantalizing aroma. This dish, made famous by food trucks in Oahu’s North Shore, is the perfect combination of juicy shrimp coated in a buttery, garlicky sauce that’s both savory and slightly spicy. Served with steamed white rice and often accompanied by a side of pineapple or lemon wedges, this recipe is a true taste of paradise.

Recreating this iconic Hawaiian dish at home is surprisingly simple, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical vacation or simply looking for a new crowd-pleaser, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is the ultimate comfort food with a tropical twist. The rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and a hint of spice clings to tender shrimp, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Not only is this dish packed with bold flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—there’s no need for complex marinades or hard-to-find ingredients. The shrimp are coated in a light flour mixture before being pan-fried to golden perfection, ensuring a crisp exterior that soaks up the buttery garlic sauce beautifully. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with everything from rice and salads to grilled vegetables and tropical fruits.

If you’ve ever visited Hawaii and enjoyed garlic shrimp from a food truck, this recipe will bring back those sunny island vibes. And if you haven’t, prepare to fall in love with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: 1/4 of the shrimp and sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 360
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your preference)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 6 cloves garlic, finely minced (or more, to taste)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Sides and Garnishes:

• Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
• Lemon wedges
• Sliced pineapple or mango for a tropical touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp ensure that they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This coating will help create a lightly crisp texture when pan-fried.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the shrimp are golden and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if necessary.

Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1/4 cup of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant (but not browned).

Stir in the lemon juice, soy sauce (if using), and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1–2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.

Step 4: Combine the Shrimp and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional minute to reheat the shrimp and allow the flavors to absorb.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter along with the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with steamed rice and lemon wedges.

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

Shrimp is the star of this dish, prized for its tender texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Opt for large shrimp (21–25 count per pound) for the best results. While fresh shrimp are ideal, frozen shrimp work just as well—just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Garlic

Garlic is the soul of this recipe, infusing the butter sauce with its rich, aromatic flavor. For the boldest taste, use fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely.

Butter and Olive Oil

The combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich, flavorful base for the sauce. Butter adds creaminess, while olive oil prevents the butter from burning and balances the dish with its slight fruitiness.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and complements the richness of the butter and shrimp. It also adds a touch of acidity, which balances the flavors perfectly.

Paprika and Cayenne Pepper

These spices give the shrimp a subtle kick and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice tolerance.

Technique Tips

1. Dry the Shrimp: Patting the shrimp dry ensures they sear properly and develop a golden crust.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the shrimp in batches prevents steaming and allows for even browning.
3. Watch the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep the heat low when making the sauce and stir constantly to avoid bitterness.
4. Serve Immediately: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while the sauce is still warm and the shrimp are tender.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Pasta: Toss the garlic shrimp and sauce with linguine or spaghetti for a Hawaiian-inspired pasta dish.
• In Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with the garlic shrimp, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of lime crema for flavorful shrimp tacos.
• With Zoodles: For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• On a Salad: Add the shrimp to a bed of mixed greens, avocado, and mango for a refreshing summer salad.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic in jars lacks the bold flavor of fresh cloves.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
• Double the Sauce: If you’re a fan of extra sauce, double the ingredients for the garlic butter sauce so you can drizzle it over rice or veggies.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet retains heat beautifully, ensuring even cooking and a nice sear on the shrimp.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Add extra cayenne pepper and a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce for a spicier version.
• Coconut Garlic Shrimp: Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, tropical twist.
• Lime-Cilantro Shrimp: Swap the lemon juice for lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro instead of parsley.
• Herb-Infused Garlic Shrimp: Incorporate thyme or oregano into the sauce for a unique flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
• Freezing: While shrimp can be frozen, the garlic butter sauce may lose its texture. For best results, freeze the cooked shrimp separately and make a fresh sauce when reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Reduce the Butter: Cut the butter in half and replace it with additional olive oil for a lighter version.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
• Serve Over Greens: Skip the rice and serve the shrimp over a bed of arugula or spinach for a low-carb option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Casual Gatherings: Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp family-style on a large platter with rice, pineapple, and lemon wedges.
• Tropical-Themed Parties: Pair the shrimp with mai tais, coconut rice, and grilled pineapple skewers for a Hawaiian-inspired menu.
• Dinner for Two: Impress your partner with this easy yet elegant dish served alongside a crisp green salad and chilled white wine.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A wide skillet ensures the shrimp cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Microplane Zester: Perfect for zesting the lemon and finely grating garlic.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping the shrimp while cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.
2. What size shrimp should I use? Large shrimp (21–25 count per pound) are ideal for this recipe, but medium shrimp will work too.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Replace the butter with vegan butter or additional olive oil for a dairy-free version.
4. Is this dish spicy? The spice level is mild, but you can adjust the cayenne and red pepper flakes to your preference.
5. What pairs well with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp? Steamed rice, pineapple salsa, and a green salad are classic pairings.
6. Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying? Absolutely! Grill the shrimp and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over them after cooking.
7. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking? Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—usually 2–3 minutes per side.
8. Can I substitute other seafood? Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is the epitome of comfort food with a tropical flair. Bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness, this dish is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating the famous flavors of the North Shore at home or serving it up for friends and family, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it today, and let the flavors of Hawaii transport you to a sunny beach with every bite!

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