If you’re looking for a quick, flavor-packed seafood dish, this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe is a must-try. Inspired by the famous shrimp trucks of Hawaii’s North Shore, this dish features juicy shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a touch of paprika and lemon for the perfect balance of savory and bright flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, buttery garlic flavor in every bite
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Simple ingredients with big results
- Family-friendly and easy enough for weeknights
- Inspired by authentic Hawaiian shrimp truck favorites
- Perfect with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup minced fresh garlic
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Place shrimp in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until the bottoms turn pink.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Toss gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp immediately with the extra garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Add extra cayenne for more heat.
- Serve over steamed white rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Large or jumbo shrimp work best for a shrimp truck-style presentation.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the richness of the butter.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Hawaiian Inspired
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Seafood, Nut-Free
Notes
- Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Serve alongside grilled pineapple for a tropical touch.
- Brown rice or coconut rice pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
FAQ
What makes Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp different from regular garlic shrimp?
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is known for its generous amount of garlic, buttery sauce, and inspiration from Hawaii’s famous shrimp trucks.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely. Increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Steamed rice, coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent options.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can season the shrimp a few hours ahead.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Warm gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery shrimp.
Similar Recipes
EASY Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 lb extra-large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup minced fresh garlic
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Place shrimp in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until the bottoms turn pink.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Toss gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp immediately with the extra garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Serve alongside grilled pineapple for a tropical touch.
- Brown rice or coconut rice pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Loaded with buttery garlic goodness and tender shrimp, it’s a fast and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Once you try this island-inspired favorite, it may become a regular part of your dinner rotation.