There’s something truly delightful about the way the vibrant flavors of Hawaii come together in this dish. The allure of freshly sautéed garlic mingling with juicy shrimp and the sweetness of ripe pineapple creates an experience that transports me straight to a sun-drenched beach with every bite. It was during a recent cooking session that I decided to take my usual garlic shrimp up a notch, infusing it with a hint of tropical charm and a dash of sweetness.
Imagine a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a mini vacation—this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with a Sweet Twist fits right into that dream! In just 25 minutes, you can represent the spirit of island cuisine in your own kitchen, delighting family and friends without any fuss. Whether served over steamed rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a testament that homemade meals can be both easy and impressive, breaking the monotony of takeout and adding a splash of excitement to your dinner routine. Join me as we dive into a recipe that’s bound to become a new favorite!
Why is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Prepare this tantalizing dish in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Tropical Explosion: The combination of garlic, pineapple, and shrimp creates a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Healthy Choice: With only 320 calories per serving, this recipe is packed with nutrients without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Serve: Whether atop rice or paired with your favorite side, it adapts to any dining occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with this dish that turns a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
And if you’re looking for more vibrant recipes, don’t miss out on my collection of easy and delightful shrimp meals!
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined; fresh shrimp is ideal for the best texture.
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons, for sautéing; it adds a nice flavor and is a healthy fat.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; provides a fragrant base for depth of flavor.
• Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated; it adds a zesty kick that complements the shrimp.
• Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon; enhances the umami flavor in your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp.
• Honey – 1 tablespoon; gives a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of soy sauce.
• Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon; adds a caramelized note, enriching the overall taste.
• Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon; offers acidity to brighten the sauce.
• Pineapple juice – 1 tablespoon; brings the tropical vibes right into your dish!
• Red pepper flakes – 1/2 teaspoon (optional); sprinkle for a bit of heat if you like.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste; essential for that perfect finishing touch.
For the Fragrant Finishing Touches
• Fresh pineapple – 1/2 cup, chopped; this adds a juicy burst of sweetness to your dish.
• Fresh cilantro – 2 tablespoons, chopped; it adds a refreshing herbal note for balance.
• Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon; drizzling this at the end gives a lovely nutty aroma.
• Lime juice – 1 tablespoon; a splash of acidity brightens all the flavors.
• Green onions – 2, sliced for garnish; they add a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
Get ready to experience a tropical twist on dinner with this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe!
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
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Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and set aside.
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Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly with the sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors.
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Add Pineapple: Stir in the chopped pineapple and cook for an additional minute until it softens slightly, blending serenely with the shrimp.
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Finish with Flavor: Drizzle sesame oil over the shrimp and pineapple, tossing gently to coat everything in that nutty goodness.
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Add Fresh Touches: Remove from heat, then stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra citrus kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen to maintain texture.
Reheating: Reheat on medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra pineapple juice to keep the shrimp moist as they warm up.
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh shrimp and ripe pineapple for the best flavor in your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp; frozen or canned won’t give the same delightful taste.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, ruining your dish’s texture.
- Sauce Simmer Time: Allow the sauce to simmer just enough to thicken slightly before adding shrimp back; rushing this step can result in a watery sauce that doesn’t coat evenly.
- Balancing Sweetness: Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or brown sugar as needed; different pineapples vary in sweetness and it’s important to balance it with the soy sauce.
- Add Freshness Last: Incorporate lime juice and cilantro at the end to preserve their vibrant flavors in your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, ensuring they stay fresh and bright.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the sauce (soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, red pepper flakes, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant taste. Additionally, you can peel and devein the shrimp up to 3 days ahead of cooking for even quicker prep. When you are ready to serve, simply cook the shrimp as instructed, add the sauce to simmer, and finish with the fresh pineapple and garnishes for a meal that feels just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Bring together a perfect meal that dazzles both the eyes and the palate with delightful pairings.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully, making every bite a tender delight.
- Zesty Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad’s acidity balances the sweetness of the shrimp, adding a vibrant touch to your plate.
- Grilled Asparagus: With a hint of char, these tender stalks bring earthy flavors that complement the tropical notes in the shrimp.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Turn up the tropical vibes with a fragrant fried rice featuring sweet pineapple chunks and green peas.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, this salsa adds a fresh zing that enhances the shrimp dish, making for an inviting appetizer.
- Sesame Green Beans: Lightly stir-fried with sesame oil, these beans offer a lovely crunch alongside the shrimp’s tenderness.
- Passion Fruit Iced Tea: The tangy sweetness of this drink complements the dish beautifully, offering a refreshing sip between bites.
- Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, this light and creamy treat will cool your palate after the vibrant flavors of the meal.
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Variations
Feel free to play around with these ideas to make this dish your own and tantalize everyone’s taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative that’s equally tasty.
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Coconut Cream: Add a splash of coconut cream to the sauce for a rich, tropical twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers to amp up the heat and give it a fiery touch.
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Pineapple Options: Swap fresh pineapple for mango or papaya to create a unique flavor combination that’s equally delicious!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in colorful bell peppers or snow peas for added nutrition and crunch, making this dish even more vibrant.
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Herbal Elements: Use Thai basil or mint instead of cilantro for a completely different herbal note that brightens every bite.
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Citrus Infusion: Replace lime juice with fresh orange or grapefruit juice for a sweeter citrus balance that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
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Sweetness Variations: Experiment with agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey for a different kind of sweetness that still sings in harmony.
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm, with a slightly shiny shell, and a mild, fresh sea scent. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong fishy smell—these are signs of aging. Large shrimp are ideal for this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, with sizes ranging from 16-20 per pound being perfect for cooking evenly and retaining juiciness.
How do I store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Very good question! Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it to avoid steam buildup, which can make the shrimp soggy. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for even warming and to preserve texture.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely, you can freeze it! First, let the dish cool completely. Then, spread the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. Transfer the shrimp to a freezer bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently warm in a skillet, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice for moisture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
No problem! If your sauce is too thick, you can add a little water or more pineapple juice to loosen it up. Start with a tablespoon at a time, stirring to combine until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Just be cautious not to over-reduce it; you want a nice, glossy coat on the shrimp!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Great inquiry! This dish is generally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re worried about allergens, check for shellfish allergies since shrimp is the star here. For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with tofu or a mix of colorful vegetables and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Sweet and Savory Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly with the sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Stir in the chopped pineapple and cook for an additional minute until it softens slightly, blending serenely with the shrimp.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the shrimp and pineapple, tossing gently to coat everything in that nutty goodness.
- Remove from heat, then stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.