This Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the islands to your kitchen. Inspired by the popular shrimp trucks of Hawaii, it features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with a hint of heat and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The addition of paprika and cayenne pepper adds depth and a subtle kick, while the flour coating ensures the sauce clings perfectly to each shrimp. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, delivering a taste of the tropics in every bite.
Ingredients
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1 lb extra-large shrimp (21–30 count per pound), peeled and deveined
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1 medium head of garlic, minced (about 1/4 cup)
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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1½ teaspoons paprika
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⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced into 1-tablespoon pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
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Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in a bowl.
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Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the shrimp with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss to evenly coat.
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Cook the Garlic: In a large 12-inch non-stick skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook on the first side until it turns pink, about 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp and cook the opposite side until just cooked through, about 2 minutes longer.
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Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Toss the shrimp with fresh lemon juice and garnish with minced parsley, if desired.
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Serve: Serve the shrimp immediately, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: Approximately 362 kcal
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Fat: 26g (Saturated Fat: 12g)
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Carbohydrates: 3g
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Protein: 35g
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Cholesterol: 220mg
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Sodium: 680mg
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Potassium: 200mg
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Vitamin A: 10% DV
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Vitamin C: 10% DV
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Calcium: 10% DV
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Iron: 15% DV
History of Hawaiian-Style Garlic Shrimp
Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp is a dish that has become synonymous with the food culture of Hawaii. The origins of the dish can be traced back to the popular shrimp trucks that are an iconic feature of Oahu’s North Shore. These shrimp trucks, such as Giovanni’s and Romy’s Kahuku Prawns, have been serving up mouthwatering garlic shrimp to locals and tourists for decades. Originally, the shrimp served at these trucks were farmed locally, making it a staple in Hawaiian cuisine. The rich, garlicky butter sauce is the heart and soul of this dish, infusing each shrimp with flavor and creating an irresistible aroma that fills the air as the shrimp cooks. While the shrimp truck culture is a relatively recent phenomenon, the flavors and techniques used in this dish have deep roots in Hawaiian cuisine, influenced by a mixture of different cultures, including the Native Hawaiian, Asian, and Portuguese communities.
This dish gained global recognition, largely due to the popularity of food trucks and the tourism boom in Hawaii. Whether you’re enjoying it at a shrimp truck in Hawaii or making it in your own kitchen, garlic shrimp serves as a true representation of the island’s laid-back yet flavorful approach to food. The dish has been embraced by both locals and tourists alike as a true taste of the tropics, capturing the essence of Hawaii with every bite.
The Appeal of Garlic Shrimp
What makes garlic shrimp so appealing is its simple yet powerful combination of ingredients. Shrimp, being a lean source of protein, absorbs the flavors of the butter, garlic, and spices in a way that’s both savory and satisfying. The richness of the butter complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the garlic adds depth and fragrance, creating a flavor profile that is both bold and aromatic. The use of paprika and cayenne pepper provides just the right amount of heat, making each bite exciting without being overwhelming.
Furthermore, this dish is incredibly versatile. It can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even a side dish. Its flavors pair well with a wide variety of side dishes, such as rice, pasta, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh green salad. The ability to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste also makes it adaptable, catering to those who enjoy spicier dishes or prefer a milder version.
Why Garlic Shrimp is So Popular
The popularity of garlic shrimp can be attributed to a few key factors. First, the dish is quick and easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something impressive but don’t have the time to make a complex meal.
Second, garlic shrimp offers a balance of flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates. The garlic and butter provide a rich, indulgent flavor, while the shrimp offer a lightness that prevents the dish from feeling too heavy. The addition of fresh lemon juice at the end helps to cut through the richness of the butter, adding a bright, refreshing note that ties everything together.
Another reason for its popularity is the dish’s association with Hawaii. Hawaii is a dream destination for many people, and the opportunity to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine, such as garlic shrimp, brings a taste of the islands to your own home. The dish transports diners to the beaches of Oahu, where the sun shines brightly and the ocean breeze carries the scents of fresh seafood and tropical spices. In this way, garlic shrimp has become more than just a dish—it’s an experience, a way to bring a piece of paradise to your table.
Health Benefits of Garlic Shrimp
Not only is garlic shrimp a flavorful and indulgent dish, but it also offers several health benefits. The primary ingredient in this dish is shrimp, a protein-rich seafood that is low in fat and calories. Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function. It’s also rich in nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which contribute to a healthy body.
Garlic, another key ingredient in the recipe, is known for its health benefits as well. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, and modern research has shown that garlic has a wide range of health benefits. It has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, including reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Garlic also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and chronic disease.
Additionally, garlic shrimp is a gluten-free dish (if you omit the flour coating) and can be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative. This makes it a great option for those following specific dietary restrictions.
Customization Options for Garlic Shrimp
One of the best things about garlic shrimp is how customizable it is. You can adjust the flavor profile and spice level to suit your preferences. For example, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or even add red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the garlic butter sauce. On the other hand, if you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit the cayenne pepper and still enjoy a flavorful dish.
If you like a bit of tang, you can add a splash of white wine or a bit more lemon juice to the sauce to enhance its acidity. Some people even like to incorporate a touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an added depth of umami flavor.
For a more hearty meal, garlic shrimp can be served over a bed of pasta or rice. You can also toss it with vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a more substantial dish. Alternatively, you can make it even lighter by serving it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. The options are endless, making garlic shrimp a dish that can be tailored to your taste and dietary preferences.
Garlic Shrimp Pairings
To make your garlic shrimp meal even more delightful, consider pairing it with complementary dishes and drinks. A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the shrimp. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts, which provide a crunchy texture and a slight earthiness that pairs well with the garlic butter sauce.
For a starch, rice is a classic pairing with garlic shrimp. Whether you choose plain white rice, jasmine rice, or even coconut rice, it helps to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Alternatively, pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, is another great option to serve alongside garlic shrimp, as the noodles will also carry the flavorful sauce.
When it comes to drinks, garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio. These wines have enough acidity to balance the richness of the shrimp and complement the garlic and butter flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp.
Conclusion
Garlic shrimp, Hawaiian-style, is a dish that encapsulates the essence of tropical island cuisine—simple, flavorful, and full of character. Whether you’re craving a taste of Hawaii or simply want to indulge in a quick yet satisfying meal, garlic shrimp delivers on all fronts. With its easy preparation, versatility, and rich flavors, this dish has earned a place in kitchens around the world, from home cooks to professional chefs. By making this dish, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re immersing yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Hawaii. So, whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or a main course, garlic shrimp is sure to bring a little piece of paradise to your table.