The sizzle of shrimp meeting a hot skillet instantly transports me back to sun-kissed shores, with waves crashing and the scent of the tropics in the air. This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with a Sweet Twist is your ticket to that sunny paradise right in your kitchen! In under 30 minutes, you’ll savor juicy shrimp coated in a tangy pineapple-honey glaze, creating a delicious balance of sweet and savory. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly, so no prior cooking skills are needed to whip up this delightful dish. Curious about how to bring a taste of Hawaii to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?
Tropical Escape: Each bite of this dish is like a mini-vacation to Hawaii, where sweet pineapple and garlic create a vibrant symphony of flavors that’s utterly unforgettable.
Quick & Easy: With under 30 minutes of cooking time, you can serve up an exotic meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Beginner-Friendly: So simple to make, this recipe welcomes cooks of all levels! If you enjoy flavorful dishes, this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp will quickly become a favorite, much like our Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger or Honey Garlic Sheet.
Versatile Pairings: From coconut rice to stir-fried veggies, this shrimp complements a range of sides, making it perfect for any occasion, be it a casual dinner or a festive gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress family or guests with a dish that’s both visually stunning and packed with flavor, guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
• Elevate your cooking with these essential components to create the ultimate dish!
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp – The star of this dish; ensure they’re fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps to sear the shrimp beautifully for that golden-brown color.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavors of your Hawaiian garlic shrimp.
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – Adds a bright spicy kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Brings depth and umami richness to the dish, making every bite savory.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Provides rich sweetness and helps achieve a glossy glaze on the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Deepens the sweetness with molasses undertones for a complex flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar – This adds a refreshing acidity that lightens the sauce.
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice – Introduces a tangy tropical twist that’s essential for the Hawaiian flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a gentle heat that contrasts the glaze’s sweetness.
For the Finishing Touches
- 1 cup pineapple, chopped – Adds juicy bursts of sweetness that complement the dish perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Provides a toasty depth of flavor that rounds out your creation.
- 1 lime, juiced – Brightens the entire dish, adding zesty freshness just before serving.
- Green onions, sliced – These add a touch of color and a crisp bite as a garnish.
Get your ingredients ready, because a delightful journey to a tropical paradise awaits with this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with a Sweet Twist
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice until smooth. Make sure there are no clumps, and the mixture is well combined. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired to balance the sweet and savory notes. Set aside the sauce for later use as the base for your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Step 2: Sear Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, letting it warm for about 1 minute. Carefully add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re perfectly cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, leaving any remaining oil in the pan for the next steps.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Sauté these aromatics over medium heat for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until they become fragrant but not burnt. The garlic should be lightly golden to release its warm, savory aroma, which will enhance the flavors of the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Step 4: Simmer Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits from the shrimp. Increase the heat slightly and let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the sauce slightly thickens and bubbles, ensuring it doesn’t burn while intensifying the flavors of the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are coated evenly with the bubbling sauce. Gently toss them in the mixture for about 1 minute until they soak up the delicious flavors. The shrimp should be hot throughout, and the sauce will create a glossy glaze around them, making them look irresistible.
Step 6: Incorporate Pineapple
Stir in 1 cup of chopped pineapple, allowing it to switch things up with bursts of tangy sweetness. Heat for an additional minute, ensuring the pineapple warms through without losing its bright texture. This step adds a refreshing contrast to the savory elements in your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp dish.
Step 7: Finish with Sesame Oil
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the shrimp and pineapple mixture, stirring gently to combine. The sesame oil adds a warm, nutty aroma that beautifully rounds out the tropical flavor profile. Allow everything to cook together for another minute, enhancing the overall harmony of your dish.
Step 8: Add Lime Juice and Cilantro
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the juice of 1 lime, along with chopped cilantro if desired. This brightens the entire dish and adds a zesty freshness that complements the sweet and savory notes of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp. Toss lightly to mix all the flavors before preparing to serve.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a pop of color and crunch. This tropical delight pairs perfectly with steamed rice or even a vibrant salad. Indulge in the flavors of Hawaii right at your dining table, bringing sunny smiles all around!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this dish your own and explore delightful twists that make it even more enjoyable!
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Vegan Option: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based delight. Press and cube the tofu, sautéing until golden for a satisfying texture.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for maple syrup to keep it plant-based while adding rich sweetness with a unique twist. This small change warms up your dish in a whole new way!
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Heat it Up: Adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes, or for a bold kick, try some sliced jalapeños. Your taste buds will thank you for adding that little bit of heat.
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Coconut Flavor: Stir in coconut milk to the sauce for a creamier, tropical touch. It enhances the richness, making each bite feel like you’re on a beach getaway!
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Fruit Boost: Mix in mango or papaya for a delicious variation. These fruity additions provide a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp and a charming tropical vibe.
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Add Crunch: Toss in cashews or macadamia nuts for an unexpected crunchy texture. They add nuttiness that complements the shrimp beautifully, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
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Cilantro Alternative: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using basil or mint for a fresh herb twist. Each option delivers a different aromatic profile that brightens the dish.
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Citrus Variations: Experiment with other citrus juices like orange or grapefruit in place of lime. This twist enhances the sweetness and pairs deliciously with the dish’s tropical vibes.
For even more scrumptious ideas, check out our other fantastic recipes like the Chicken Alfredo Garlic or the decadent Shrimp Lobster Cheddar. Enjoy your culinary adventure in creating the perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking by watching for color changes; shrimp should turn pink and opaque while remaining tender.
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Aromatic Balance: Sauté garlic and ginger just until fragrant to prevent bitterness; burnt garlic can spoil the flavor of your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
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Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak honey and vinegar levels to your taste, ensuring a delightful balance in your sauce.
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Pineapple Prep: Use fresh pineapple for the best tangy sweetness; canned options may not deliver the same burst of flavor.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair your dish with coconut rice or quinoa to complement the tropical theme, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with a Sweet Twist are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply mix together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp can be peeled and deveined up to 24 hours ahead of time—just keep them refrigerated to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the shrimp, combine them with the sauce, and finish with the pineapple and lime juice for a delicious, quick meal that feels like a mini tropical getaway.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Elevate your tropical dining experience with delicious side dishes that complement the sweet and savory notes of this delightful shrimp dish.
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Coconut Rice: This fluffy rice, infused with creamy coconut milk, enhances the Hawaiian theme and balances the shrimp’s bold flavors.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful, crisp veggies adds a wonderful crunch and freshness, perfect for contrasting the shrimp’s tender texture.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutty, quinoa tossed with fresh herbs and citrus zest provides a vibrant and nutritious partner to the shrimp.
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Grilled Pineapple: Caramelized fresh pineapple on the grill deepens the tropical experience, mirroring the dish’s sweetness while adding a smoky touch.
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Mango Salsa: Bright, zesty salsa with ripe mango chunks brings refreshing contrast and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that offers a crisp finish to your meal while echoing the bright zesty accents of the dish.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of tropical fruits like papaya and kiwi adds a refreshing, sweet element to the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Freezer: If you want to keep your shrimp longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also run cold water over the sealed container for a quicker method.
Reheating: Always reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make shrimp rubbery.
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for large shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a shiny, translucent appearance. Avoid any that smell overly fishy or have dark spots, which could indicate they’re not fresh. If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp for a richer flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over medium heat in a skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp and losing their tenderness.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp! Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe container, ensuring there is minimal air inside, and sealing it tightly. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move them to the fridge overnight, or run cold water over the sealed container for a quick method.
What can I do if my sauce is too sweet?
Very! If your sauce is on the sweeter side, you can balance it by adding a splash more of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These acidic elements will help cut through the sweetness and create a harmonious flavor profile.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe contains seafood, honey, and soy sauce, so be cautious for allergies related to shellfish or those sensitive to gluten (look for gluten-free soy sauce). It’s also suitable for lactose-free diets.
How do I know if the shrimp is cooked perfectly?
The perfect shrimp should be cooked just until they turn pink and opaque, around 2-3 minutes per side. If they curl tightly and turn a bright pink, they are likely overcooked. Trust me, keeping an eye on them while cooking ensures they retain their tenderness and delicious flavor!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Sweet and Savory Tropical Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice until smooth. Set aside the sauce for later use.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté over medium heat for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, scraping the bottom. Increase heat slightly and let simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, coating evenly with the sauce. Toss for about 1 minute until heated through.
- Stir in the chopped pineapple, heating for an additional minute.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture, stirring gently to combine. Cook for another minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
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