Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

The irresistible aroma of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp wafting through your kitchen instantly transports you to a tropical island paradise. Perfectly seared shrimp, infused with garlic, butter, and subtle Hawaiian flavors, create a dish that is both simple and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a quick weekday meal, this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe delivers a savory, sweet, and slightly tangy experience that your taste buds will thank you for. Prepare to unlock the secrets of tropical seafood cuisine and impress everyone at your table with a dish that’s both effortless and extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

  • Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, butter, and a hint of citrus combine for a perfectly balanced tropical taste.

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes—ideal for weeknight dinners.

  • Healthy & Light: Packed with protein, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free.

  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home.

  • Versatile Serving Options: Delicious over rice, pasta, or fresh greens.

  • Tropical Escape at Home: Every bite gives you island vibes without leaving your kitchen.

  • Family-Friendly: Mild spice with a hint of sweetness that everyone loves.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Ingredient Function Substitutions & Tips
1 pound large shrimp, peeled & deveined Main protein Fresh or frozen; thaw frozen in cold water for 15 min
4 tbsp unsalted butter Adds richness & flavor Coconut oil for tropical twist
6 cloves garlic, minced Key aromatic Garlic powder if short on time
1 tsp red pepper flakes Mild heat Adjust or omit for milder version
1 tbsp soy sauce Umami & seasoning Tamari for gluten-free
1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens flavor Lime juice for extra tropical note
Salt & pepper Seasoning Kosher salt recommended
Chopped parsley Garnish Cilantro for alternative fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

1. Preheat & Prep the Pan

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure it’s hot but not smoking to prevent burning the garlic.

2. Sauté Garlic & Spices

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until aromatic, approximately 1–2 minutes. The garlic should be golden, not brown, for the perfect sweet-savory flavor.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Place shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes until shrimp turns pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking; shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.

4. Add Sauces

Stir in soy sauce and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute until shrimp is coated evenly and glistening with sauce.

5. Season & Garnish

Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.

Pro Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

How do you prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cooks very quickly. Remove from heat immediately once they turn pink to maintain juicy texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for the same tropical richness.

How do I make it spicier without overpowering?

Increase red pepper flakes gradually or add a touch of Hawaiian chili paste for authentic island heat.

Best Ways to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

  • Over steamed jasmine rice for a classic Hawaiian plate.

  • Tossed with linguine or angel hair pasta for a seafood pasta night.

  • Served atop a fresh green salad with mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.

  • As a filling for tacos with avocado, slaw, and a squeeze of lime.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220

  • Protein: 24g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 3g

  • Fiber: 0.5g

  • Sodium: 410mg

This dish is a high-protein, low-carb option suitable for keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets.

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

  • Freezer: Not recommended due to sauce texture changes.

  • Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 30–45 seconds. Avoid high heat to prevent rubbery shrimp.

FAQs About Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Thaw thoroughly in cold water, then pat dry to ensure they sear properly.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Cook shrimp separately and store sauce separately. Reheat quickly before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have soy sauce?
A: Coconut aminos or fish sauce can work as alternatives while maintaining umami flavor.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but spice can be adjusted or omitted.

Variations for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

  • Garlic Butter Hawaiian Shrimp: Add extra butter and a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

  • Pan-Seared Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Crisp the shrimp slightly for texture contrast.

  • Island-Style Garlic Shrimp: Incorporate pineapple juice or coconut cream for tropical flair.

  • Quick Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp for Dinner: Skip soy sauce, use lemon juice only, perfect for 10-minute prep.

Conclusion

Nothing beats the taste of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp fresh from the skillet—garlicky, buttery, and bursting with tropical flavors. This dish transforms a simple dinner into an island getaway. Try it tonight, snap a photo, and share your creation with friends and family. Unlock the full tropical flavor and reclaim your dinner game—this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing, stress-free meal everyone will love.

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