If you are craving a succulent, flavorful dish that bursts with buttery garlic goodness and a touch of island charm, this Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a quick and easy meal that brings the essence of Hawaii right into your kitchen, combining tender shrimp with a zesty lemon kick and just the right amount of seasoning to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether you are preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this recipe delivers irresistible flavors in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color. From fragrant garlic that gives a savory punch to the smooth, rich butter and olive oil duo that creates the luscious sauce, every component is thoughtfully chosen.
- 1 pound large uncooked shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp offer a juicy, tender protein base that cooks quickly and soaks up the garlicky flavors beautifully.
- 5 Tablespoons olive oil (divided): Adds a silky richness and helps gently cook the garlic without burning it.
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter (divided): Enhances flavor with creamy, buttery notes essential for that signature Hawaiian shrimp taste.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): The aromatic star of the dish, providing that unforgettable robust and slightly caramelized flavor.
- Juice from half of a large lemon: Brings a refreshing citrus brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse Hawaiian sea salt (or regular coarse sea salt): A pinch of sea salt adds authentic flavor and elevates the dish’s overall seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and a hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: A gentle smokiness and lovely red tint to enhance the shrimp’s color and depth of flavor.
How to Make Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Butter and Olive Oil
Start by heating 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. This combination creates the perfect base for sautéing garlic without burning it. You’ll want to stir gently until the butter melts, blending beautifully with the olive oil to form a rich, fragrant sauce foundation.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the warmed oil and butter, cooking it for about one minute. This step releases the garlic’s essential oils, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma. The garlic should caramelize slightly, turning golden but not brown, which builds a sweet and savory flavor that is key to the recipe.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and More Fat
Next, pour in the lemon juice, sprinkle in the coarse Hawaiian sea salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together to combine the bright acidity with the spices. Then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Allow it to gently cook for about 2 more minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce becomes luscious.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully place the shrimp in the skillet, making sure they lie flat in a single layer. Cook each side for 2 minutes. You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn a gorgeous orange-pink color, signaling juiciness inside and that signature Hawaiian style garlic shrimp flavor on the outside. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye!
Step 5: Serve with Sauce
Once cooked through, serve the shrimp immediately, drizzled generously with the buttery garlic sauce. The sauce is what ties the dish together, offering rich, silky goodness with every bite. It is especially divine over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up every last drop.
How to Serve Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your plate by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top. These fresh herbs bring a pop of green and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the buttery garlic sauce. A wedge of lemon on the side also allows guests to add extra citrus zing to their taste.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs incredibly well with simple steamed white or jasmine rice to absorb the flavorful sauce. For a more vibrant meal, consider a side of grilled pineapple, a light Asian-style slaw, or even roasted vegetables seasoned with a touch of sea salt and lime for a tropical twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun island-style presentation, try serving the Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe in hollowed-out pineapple bowls, which offers a festive look and subtle sweet aroma. You can also skewer the shrimp and serve as an appetizer, brushing extra garlic sauce over the top for full flavor in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because shrimp are delicate, it’s best to consume them soon to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
While shrimp can be frozen, this particular recipe’s buttery garlic sauce is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the cooked shrimp without the sauce for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small splash of olive oil or butter to keep them moist. Microwave reheating is possible but can quickly overcook the shrimp, making them rubbery, so use caution and low power if you choose that method.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure they sauté nicely.
What can I substitute for Hawaiian sea salt?
If Hawaiian sea salt isn’t available, regular coarse sea salt works perfectly. The key is using a coarse texture to add a slight crunch and highlight the seasoning.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe is not spicy; it has a mild warmth from black pepper and a smoky hint from paprika. You can add a pinch of cayenne if you prefer more heat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses simple whole ingredients without any flour or soy sauce derivatives.
How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Look for shrimp to turn from translucent grey to an opaque pink-orange color. They should curl slightly but not be tightly curled or rubbery, which means they’re overcooked.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a fantastic little culinary escape that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your table with minimal effort and maximum taste. Whether you’re feeding family on a busy night or entertaining guests, you’re guaranteed compliments and empty plates. Give it a try and fall in love with this easy, delicious meal that feels like a vacation in every bite!
Print
Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
A quick and flavorful Hawaiian-inspired garlic shrimp recipe cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with hints of lemon and paprika. Perfectly sautéed shrimp served over rice for a delicious and easy meal in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large uncooked shrimp
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse Hawaiian sea salt (or regular coarse sea salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 5 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice from half of a large lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Base: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the butter melt while stirring gently. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly caramelized, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
- Add Lemon and Seasonings: Pour in the lemon juice, then add the coarse Hawaiian sea salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine the flavors. Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet, stirring and letting the sauce slowly cook for 2 minutes to meld the ingredients.
- Cook the Shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet, making sure they are coated with the sauce. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a vibrant orange/pink color, indicating they are fully cooked. Shrimp cook quickly so avoid overcooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the garlic shrimp over a bed of steamed rice. Pour any remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the shrimp and rice for extra flavor. Enjoy your quick and delicious Hawaiian style garlic shrimp!
Notes
- Use large shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste preference.
- Serve with steamed white or jasmine rice for an authentic touch.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the paprika.
- Ensure shrimp are fresh or properly thawed before cooking.
