Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: A Taste of the Islands at Home

Transport your taste buds to the tropical shores of Hawaii with this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe. Inspired by the famous shrimp trucks of Oahu, this dish is bursting with garlicky goodness and a touch of buttery richness that perfectly complements the tender, succulent shrimp. Ready in just 16 minutes, it’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a taste of paradise right at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup (slightly packed) minced fresh garlic (nearly 1 medium head)
• 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps ensure the shrimp get a nice sear when cooked. Place the shrimp in a bowl.

2. Season the Shrimp

Sprinkle the shrimp with all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss the shrimp in the bowl to evenly coat them with the seasoning mixture. This step adds a flavorful crust to the shrimp as they cook.

3. Sauté the Garlic

In a large 12-inch non-stick skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in an even layer. Cook the shrimp on the first side until they turn a pinkish color on the bottom, about 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp and cook the other side for about 2 more minutes, or until just cooked through. The shrimp should be opaque and firm to the touch.

5. Finish with Lemon Juice and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the heat. Toss the shrimp with fresh lemon juice to add a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the butter. If desired, garnish with minced fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

6. Serve Immediately

Serve the shrimp immediately, spooning the extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over the shrimp. This sauce is full of flavor and enhances every bite, so don’t let it go to waste!

Serving Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Calories: 210 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

• Use Fresh Garlic: The key to the bold flavor of this dish is fresh garlic. Mince it finely to release all its aromatic oils.
• Adjust the Spice: The cayenne pepper is optional, but if you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add it. You can also adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
• Serve with Rice: Traditionally, Hawaiian garlic shrimp is served with steamed white rice, which soaks up all the delicious garlic butter sauce. You can also pair it with a side of salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and easy way to bring the flavors of the islands into your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a luau-themed dinner or simply craving something deliciously garlicky, this dish delivers on all fronts. The combination of tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich butter is simply irresistible. Give it a try, and let the tropical flavors whisk you away to a culinary paradise!

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