Looking to impress your family with a taste of Hawaii? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Hawaiian Style is both simple and delicious. With fresh shrimp, buttery garlic, and a burst of sweet pineapple, this dish offers a tropical escape right in your kitchen. Get ready to savor every bite as we walk you through the easy steps to create this flavorful meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and pineapple creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that will impress anyone.
- Healthy Ingredients: With fresh shrimp and colorful vegetables, this dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over jasmine rice or quinoa, making it adaptable to your dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
– ½ cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– ¼ cup green onions, chopped
Flavor Enhancers
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Gather these fresh ingredients to make a tasty dish. The shrimp should be large and fresh for the best flavor. I love using unsalted butter, as it allows me to control the saltiness. Garlic brings a lovely aroma, and I always use fresh cloves.
The pineapple adds a sweet touch that balances the garlic. Red bell pepper adds color and crunch. Green onions give a fresh finish.
For flavor, soy sauce and sesame oil blend well. Adjust red pepper flakes to match your spice level. Add salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors. This mix creates a dish you will want to savor.Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
First, rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Then, season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a rich base for our dish.
Cooking the Shrimp
Now, add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté it for one to two minutes until it smells great. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for two to three minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when done.
Combining Ingredients
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper and pineapple chunks. Cook these for an additional two to three minutes. This will soften the peppers and add sweetness. Then, drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir the mixture well to combine everything. Finally, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the dish. Mix it all together and remove it from heat. Stir in the chopped green onions. Now the dish is ready to serve!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can also work, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. For more spice, consider adding sliced fresh chili peppers.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh pineapple and vegetables will enhance the dish's overall flavor. If using canned pineapple, drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- Perfect Serving Suggestion: Serve the shrimp over cooked jasmine rice or quinoa, and garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Shrimp
To make the best garlic butter shrimp, start by deveining and peeling the shrimp. Use a sharp knife to cut along the back and remove the dark vein. This step is key for a clean bite. Rinse them well to wash away any grit.
Timing is crucial to avoid overcooking. Cook the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, which nobody enjoys.
Enhancing Flavor
Fresh herbs can take your dish up a notch. Try adding cilantro or basil for a burst of flavor. These herbs add brightness and a fresh taste that pairs well with the shrimp.
If you want alternatives to soy sauce, consider coconut aminos or tamari. Each brings a unique flavor that still complements the dish. For butter, you can use olive oil or ghee for a different twist.
Serving Ideas
Serve your garlic butter shrimp over jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Both options soak up the sauce well and add a nice texture.
For a true Hawaiian touch, garnish your dish with lime wedges and sesame seeds. You can also add slices of fresh pineapple. This not only looks pretty but enhances the tropical vibe of the meal.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change up this dish with fun ingredient swaps. Try using different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. These will add color and crunch. For protein, scallops or chicken work well too. They cook fast and soak up the flavors.
Flavor Profiles
Adjusting the sweetness can make a big difference. You can add fruits like mango or kiwi for a new twist. For sauces, try different spices. Lime juice or ginger can give a bright flavor. Experiment to find your favorite taste.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It gives the same great taste without gluten. For low-carb diets, switch to cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice. It keeps the meal light and delicious.
These variations make garlic butter shrimp Hawaiian style fun and flexible. You can enjoy it in many ways.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the garlic butter shrimp fresh. I recommend using glass containers for best results. They do not absorb odors and are easy to clean. Let the shrimp cool first before sealing. Store in the fridge for up to three days.
Long-term Storage
For longer shelf life, you can freeze the shrimp. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. Garlic butter shrimp can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. This keeps the shrimp tender and juicy.
Reheating Guidelines
When reheating, use gentle heat to keep the shrimp tender. You can warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam it. Another option is to use the microwave. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Always check the temperature. It should be at least 165°F for safe eating.
FAQs
What makes Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp different?
Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp stands out due to its bright, tropical flavors. The addition of pineapple gives it a sweet twist. Other shrimp recipes might focus on spices or creamy sauces. This dish is light, fresh, and full of life. You get the rich taste of garlic butter, combined with juicy shrimp and fruity notes.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, you can easily spice it up! Start with the red pepper flakes. Add more for extra heat. You can also use fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a smoky flavor, consider adding chipotle powder. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. Make it as spicy as you like!
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?
Perfectly cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque. You should not see any gray. When you cook it, it should curl up slightly. If it forms a tight “C” shape, it’s done. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. Keep an eye on the time; it usually takes only a few minutes.
This blog post gives you all the details to make Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp. You learned which ingredients are key and how to cook them perfectly. I shared tips for flavor and serving to impress guests. Stored properly, you can enjoy leftovers later. Remember to adjust spices to suit your taste. With this recipe, you can easily share a taste of the tropics with friends and family. Enjoy creating a delightful meal that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Happy cooking!
