Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp is my go to recipe when I want something crave worthy but still easy and quick. Juicy shrimp sizzle in a garlicky butter sauce that instantly brings back memories of golden beaches and the warm breeze of Maui. Whether you are missing the islands or just need a quick family dinner that feels a little extra special this dish always stirs up nostalgia and a sense of aloha in our home.

I first tried recreating this after our family trip to Maui and now it is a go to pick me up when we are dreaming of the ocean. My kids love how garlicky it is and I love how stress free it is to make

Ingredients

• Jumbo shrimp: buy wild caught if you can for the best taste and plumpness
• Olive oil: extra virgin gives richness and helps the butter not burn
• Salted butter: brings silkiness and classic shrimp truck flavor
• Fresh garlic: use lots and chop it well for sweet aromatic notes
• Lemon juice: brightens all the savory flavors use fresh not bottled
• Coarse Hawaiian sea salt: makes a difference but any coarse salt works
• Black pepper: freshly ground adds depth to the sauce
• Paprika: gives color and a gentle smokiness

Look for plump shrimp with a firm texture and a fresh ocean smell. Avoid shrimp that looks mushy or smells off. Garlic should be firm no green sprouts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Warm the Skillet:

Add most of the olive oil and half the butter to a large skillet set over medium low heat. Let everything melt and swirl together watching for any bubbling

Bloom the Garlic:

Toss in the chopped garlic. Stir and cook for about one minute. The garlic should become fragrant and just begin to color but not turn brown

Build the Sauce:

Pour in lemon juice sprinkle in salt pepper and paprika. Give it a stir then add the remaining olive oil and butter. Keep everything on low to let the flavors marry about two minutes

Cook the Shrimp:

Gently nestle the shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Cook two minutes on the first side until you see the color turn to orange pink. Turn each shrimp and cook an additional two minutes until done. The shrimp should feel just firm trampoline like not rubbery

Serve and Enjoy:

Spoon the shrimp and all of the buttery sauce over rice or scoop up with good bread. Serve immediately to enjoy them at their best

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I always find myself adding a little extra garlic because you simply cannot go wrong with more. My favorite moment is everyone leaning over the skillet to inhale that first waft of garlicky steam it takes us right back to those vacation nights eating with sandy feet after sunset

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to two days. Gently reheat shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra butter or oil to avoid toughness. Do not microwave as shrimp can become rubbery. If making ahead keep shrimp separate from rice so flavors stay bright and shrimp keeps its texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If jumbo shrimp are not available medium or large shrimp work fine just reduce the cook time slightly. Margarine can be swapped for butter if needed though real butter will give the best flavor. Paprika can be changed for a touch of cayenne for heat or left out for a milder dish. Hawaiian sea salt is wonderfully mineral but kosher salt is a good everyday substitute

Serving Suggestions

Serve the garlic shrimp piled high over steamed white rice or alongside coconut rice for a real island touch. Citrus wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onion add color and zip. A side of quick stir fried veggies like bok choy or snap peas rounds out the plate. For a party serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and lime wedges

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The North Shore Inspiration

Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp is a love letter to the legendary shrimp trucks dotting the North Shore of Oahu. Each truck has its own twist but the basics remain the same big shrimp sizzling in a punchy garlic butter sauce usually with a scoop or two of rice on the side. The recipe was born from plantation era migration using island ingredients and borrowing flavors from Asia and the US mainland merging into the simple yet bold classic we enjoy today

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I achieve perfectly cooked shrimp?

Sauté shrimp just until they turn orange and opaque, about 2 minutes per side, to ensure they remain tender and juicy.

→ Can I use regular sea salt instead of Hawaiian sea salt?

Yes, coarse regular sea salt will provide a similar flavor and texture if Hawaiian sea salt is unavailable.

→ What is the best side dish to pair with this shrimp?

Fluffy white rice is classic, but steamed vegetables or a crisp salad also make delicious accompaniments.

→ Can I add more heat to the dish?

A dash of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce can add a touch of spice if desired.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, try substituting shrimp with tofu or assorted vegetables for a plant-based twist bursting with flavor.