If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and transports you straight to a tropical paradise, this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, buttery shrimp infused with fragrant garlic and a subtle kick of spice come together effortlessly to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfectly paired with steamed rice and a squeeze of fresh lemon, this recipe brings the sunny spirit of Hawaii right to your kitchen, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe lies in its simplicity and the power of each ingredient. Every component plays a crucial role, from the tender shrimp to the aromatic garlic and the touch of heat from cayenne pepper, creating layers of flavor and inviting textures.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on: Using large shrimp ensures a juicy bite and the tails add a beautiful presentation.
- 8 cloves garlic, finely minced: Fresh garlic is the soul of this dish, providing an irresistible aroma and deep flavor.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Olive oil delivers a smooth, rich base for sautéing with a hint of fruitiness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Coats the shrimp lightly to give a subtle crispness when cooked.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and gorgeous color.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Offers just the right amount of spiciness to wake up your taste buds.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall seasoning with a touch of heat.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity, cutting through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into a velvety, flavorful sauce coating every shrimp beautifully.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a splash of green freshness for visual appeal and mild herbal notes.
- Steamed white rice and lemon wedges for serving: The perfect bases that soak up the garlicky goodness and add a citrus twist.
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Coating
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This seasoned flour blend will give the shrimp a flavorful crust that’s slightly crispy after cooking. Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well, then toss them gently in the flour mixture until every piece is evenly covered.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds, until fragrant. The aroma here is crucial; make sure not to let the garlic brown or burn as it will turn bitter and spoil that wonderful garlicky taste you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Place the coated shrimp in the skillet in a single layer, giving them enough space so they cook evenly without steaming. Let each side cook for approximately 2 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and develops a slight crisp edge — this is the moment your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering scents.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Lemon
Once the shrimp is nearly done, add the unsalted butter and lemon juice directly to the pan. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in this luscious garlic butter sauce. The butter enhances richness while the lemon juice lifts all the flavors, creating that perfect balance that makes this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top, if desired. The green accent not only brightens the presentation but adds a fresh bite that complements the savory shrimp. Serve immediately over steaming white rice with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over. This dish tastes best piping hot to keep the shrimp crisp and the flavors vibrant.
How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of chopped parsley is the classic finish for this shrimp recipe, adding a burst of color and subtle herbal freshness. For an extra special touch, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a few thinly sliced scallions — both add texture and a pop of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
Steamed white rice is the traditional and perfect pairing, soaking up the buttery garlic sauce with every bite. For something a bit more vibrant, try coconut rice or a simple mango salad. Both options provide a sweet counterpoint to the garlicky shrimp. Lightly sautéed greens like bok choy or kale make a great nutritious side that balances the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve the shrimp over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice in a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Another beautiful idea is to stuff the shrimp mixture into warmed tortillas for a Hawaiian-inspired shrimp taco or serve it atop a crisp green salad drizzled with a light citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the shrimp and sauce separately from the rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the shrimp from becoming soggy and maintains their texture for your next meal.
Freezing
While freshly cooked shrimp is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to two months. To preserve the integrity of the garlic butter sauce, consider freezing it separately and combining them when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a touch of butter or olive oil if the sauce seems dry. Avoid microwaving directly as this can toughen the shrimp and lose the crispiness that makes this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before coating and cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
If you prefer gluten-free options, rice flour or cornstarch works well for coating the shrimp, giving a nice crisp finish similar to all-purpose flour.
How spicy is this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
The recipe has a mild, pleasant heat thanks to the 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust it to your liking. Increase the cayenne for more kick or reduce it if you prefer a gentler flavor.
Can I make this dish without butter?
Butter adds richness and helps create the garlic butter sauce, but if you want a dairy-free version, try substituting with extra olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
What’s the best way to serve the dish for guests?
Serving this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe family-style over a large platter of rice, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges makes for a beautiful and inviting presentation that encourages sharing and conversation.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of island-inspired comfort right into your own home. Its ease and bold flavors make it a go-to for busy nights or dinner parties alike. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your favorite shrimp dishes, perfect for sharing with friends and family who love a little aloha in every bite.
Print
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp coated in a flavorful blend of spices, sautéed with fragrant garlic in olive oil, and finished with a luscious garlic butter lemon sauce. Served over steamed white rice and garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, this dish offers a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors reminiscent of island cuisine. Ideal for a quick and delicious main course that brings a taste of Hawaii to your table.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Spice Mix
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 8 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
To Serve
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
- Steamed white rice
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mix and coat shrimp. In a small bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then toss them in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Sauté garlic. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it will turn bitter.
- Cook shrimp. Add the coated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for approximately 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and develop a slightly crisp exterior.
- Add butter and lemon juice. Reduce the heat slightly and add the unsalted butter and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Finish and serve. Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, garnish the shrimp with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the garlic shrimp hot over steamed white rice alongside lemon wedges to squeeze over the top.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
- For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon.
- Serve immediately after cooking to keep the shrimp crispy.
- Peeling and deveining shrimp yourself can improve texture and flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a light green salad.
