Name: Savor Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in a Buttery, Quick Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Butter (essential for richness); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can be swapped with canola oil); 18 cloves Garlic (fresh gives the best flavor); 1 pound Prawns (peeled for quicker prep); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (consider using gluten-free options); 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika can deepen flavor); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 cups White Rice (fluffy rice pairs beautifully); 1 whole Lemon (optional for brightness)

Just imagine the salty ocean breeze brushing against your skin as you dive into a bowl of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, bringing the taste of the islands right to your kitchen. This quick and delicious recipe showcases juicy prawns bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce—an easy weeknight dish that feels downright luxurious. Not only will it transport you to your next tropical getaway, but it also offers a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for busy cooks who crave a vibrant, homemade dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Are you ready to savor the flavors of Hawaii? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?

Incredible Flavor: Savory prawns coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce make every bite a taste of paradise.
Quick Preparation: Whip up this dish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair with fluffy white rice or even add a side of macaroni salad, allowing for delicious customization!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your guests with a dish that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for everyday meals. Try it alongside Garlic Butter Steak for a complete feast!
Ingredient Flexibility: Easily swap prawns for chicken or tofu and change up your oils, making it adaptable for various dietary needs.

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Butter – essential for richness and a garlicky base.
• Olive Oil – prevents butter from burning; can be swapped with canola oil.
• Garlic – 18 cloves recommended; fresh gives the best flavor, but pre-minced saves time.

For the Prawns
• Prawns – primary protein; use peeled for quicker prep or unpeeled for added flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – lightly coats shrimp for crispiness; consider using potato or almond flour as a gluten-free option.
• Paprika – adds beautiful color and subtle spice; smoked paprika can deepen the flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper – staples for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.

Serving Suggestions
• White Rice – fluffy rice pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce; basmati or jasmine works wonderfully.
• Lemon Wedges – a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish; optional but highly recommended for a burst of freshness.

With this fabulous lineup of ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp dish. Enjoy this quick, buttery delight that’s bound to transport you to the islands with every delectable bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
Begin by patting the prawns dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear nicely. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the prawns gently in this mixture until they are lightly coated, creating a crispy texture when cooked. Set the coated prawns aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the mixture begins to bubble, add in 18 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it turns fragrant and golden, being careful not to let it burn. Once done, carefully remove most of the garlic from the skillet and set it aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Prawns
In the same skillet, arrange the coated prawns in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they become golden and slightly crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure they cook evenly. Flip the prawns and cook for another 2-3 minutes, monitoring their color for that perfect golden-brown hue.

Step 4: Combine and Finish
Once the prawns are fully cooked, return the reserved garlic to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the shrimp in that irresistible garlicky, buttery sauce. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together, ensuring each prawn is generously coated in sauce and heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp to a serving platter while it’s hot, garnishing with additional lemon wedges for a bright touch. Pair this delicious dish with fluffy white rice to soak up the buttery sauce. Dive into the tropical flavors and savor every delightful bite of this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Variations

Feel free to explore the delicious possibilities and make this recipe your own!

Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper or cayenne for an extra kick. The heat complements the buttery sauce beautifully.
Rice Variety: Swap out white rice for brown rice or even coconut rice for a tropical flair. This simple change elevates the dish’s flavor profile!
Alternative Proteins: Substitute prawns with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Both options will soak up that tasty garlic butter sauce perfectly!
Herbs Galore: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley after cooking for an herbaceous finish. It adds a fresh touch that brightens each bite.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular to deepen the dish’s flavor. The smokiness pairs wonderfully with the garlicky shrimp.
Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or snap peas for vibrant color and added crunch. It’s a delightful way to make the dish even more nutritious!
Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy sauce. This twist transforms the dish into a comfort food classic.
Side Suggestions: Try pairing with a side of traditional Hawaiian mac salad for an authentic Hawaiian experience alongside your garlic shrimp. You may also enjoy it with Cheesy Garlic Chicken for a hearty feast!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavor will deepen, but fresh is best!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the shrimp moist. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent overcooking.
Enjoy Fresh: A perfect dish to enjoy right after cooking, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is at its best served hot, with that buttery garlic sauce!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

When you’re savoring Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, think about how to create a complete meal that sings with flavor and harmony.

Fluffy White Rice: This classic pairing soaks up the delicious buttery, garlicky sauce, balancing the rich flavors perfectly.
Macaroni Salad: A traditional Hawaiian side, its creamy texture and sweetness contrast beautifully with the savory shrimp, making each bite a delight.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers: The tropical sweetness of grilled pineapple complements the garlicky shrimp, adding a refreshing burst of flavor to your meal.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the leftover sauce, the crispy, buttery bread echoes the rich flavors of the dish, inviting you to savor every last drop.
Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh, green crunch, its bright flavor serving as a refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp.
Mango Salsa: This zesty topping bursts with sweetness, providing a lively counterpoint to the savory garlic sauce and enhancing the overall experience.
Coconut Rice: For an island twist, try coconut rice. Its subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the shrimp while adding a creamy texture.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like lemonade or lightly sweetened iced tea cleanse the palate, providing a delightful balance to the richness of the dish.
Chocolate Haupia Pie: For dessert, this creamy coconut chocolate pie is a delectable way to end a Hawaiian meal, finishing your culinary adventure on a sweet note!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the shrimp by coating them in the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the coated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mince the garlic ahead of time and refrigerate it for effortless cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply sauté the garlic in butter and oil, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, and toss them in the reserved garlic before serving. This way, you’ll have an easy and vibrant meal ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made freshly!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic will enhance the flavor immensely; avoid overcooking it as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Proper Coating: Make sure to coat the prawns lightly with flour. Too much flour can lead to a gummy texture; a light dusting creates desirable crispiness.
Don’t Overcrowd: When cooking the prawns, ensure they’re in a single layer. Overcrowding the pan can steam them instead of giving that glorious golden sear.
Monitor Cooking Time: Cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, ruining this quick dish.
Zesty Brightness: For added flavor, consider a splash of lemon juice during the final stages of cooking to brighten the garlicky sauce of your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right prawns?
Absolutely! When selecting prawns, look for ones that are firm, moist, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that have a strong smell or dark spots all over their shells. Fresh, pink shrimp are usually the best choice for this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Certainly! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be careful to reheat them gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Very much so! To freeze, place portions of the cooled dish into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much excess air as possible. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop.

What can I do if the shrimp turn out chewy?
It’s an unfortunate situation, but don’t worry! If your shrimp turn out chewy, it may be due to overcooking. Next time, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, around 2-3 minutes per side. Also, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can trap steam and affect the texture.

Is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, indeed! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond, rice, or potato flour. This will allow everyone to enjoy the delicious flavor of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp without worry. Just remember to check the other ingredients for any hidden gluten!

Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Absolutely! While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, pre-minced garlic is a fantastic time-saver when you’re in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste may be slightly milder, so you might want to adjust the quantity based on your preference.