Garlic Shrimp Hawaiian Style

This Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich blend of butter and olive oil, infused with a hearty amount of garlic, smoky paprika, and a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick. A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor, while a touch of parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Ideal when paired with rice, pasta, or roasted veggies, this dish is easy enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for entertaining.

Ingredients

• 1 lb extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ¼ cup minced fresh garlic (about 1 medium head)

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons paprika

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced into 1-tablespoon pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Pat the shrimp dry on both sides with paper towels and place them in a bowl.

2. Sprinkle the shrimp with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

3. In a large 12-inch non-stick skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.

4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, without letting it brown.

5. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes until pink and lightly golden on the first side.

6. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until fully cooked.

7. Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.

8. Toss to combine, garnish with parsley if using, and serve immediately with the garlic butter sauce from the pan.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 362 kcal

• Fat: 26 g

• Saturated Fat: 12 g

• Cholesterol: 332 mg

• Sodium: 158 mg

• Potassium: 190 mg

• Carbohydrates: 7 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Protein: 25 g

• Vitamin A: 1292 IU

• Vitamin C: 16 mg

• Calcium: 201 mg

• Iron: 3 mg

The Origin and Popularity of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaii’s garlic shrimp phenomenon began with humble food trucks catering to surfers, tourists, and locals alike. These mobile kitchens found a winning combination in simple, fresh ingredients and bold, garlicky flavors. The shrimp, often locally sourced from Hawaiian farms, are cooked shell-on for added flavor and texture—though this recipe uses peeled shrimp for convenience.

What makes the dish truly Hawaiian isn’t just the shrimp or the garlic—it’s the laid-back, no-fuss attitude behind it. Cooked outdoors, served on paper plates with two scoops of rice and sometimes a side of pineapple or macaroni salad, garlic shrimp is island comfort food at its best. The influence of various cultures, from Portuguese to Filipino, is present in the generous use of garlic, butter, and spices.

Flavor Profile and Cooking Style

Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp is known for its rich, buttery base and sharp garlicky kick. It’s a dish that balances umami, spice, and zest. The butter provides a luxurious mouthfeel, while olive oil tempers the richness and keeps the flavor light enough for summer dining. Paprika adds a gentle smokiness, while cayenne pepper introduces a subtle heat that can be customized to your preference.

Lemon juice is the balancing agent—it cuts through the butter and awakens the palate. A sprinkling of parsley not only gives a pop of color but also adds a herbal freshness that lightens the overall dish.

Although shrimp cooks very quickly, the key is building layers of flavor. Gently sautéing the garlic in butter allows the aroma to bloom without burning, while flour on the shrimp helps create a light crust and slightly thickens the sauce as it cooks. The end result is shrimp that are tender, juicy, and coated in a bold, garlicky sauce that’s perfect for spooning over sides.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Every Time

• Use Fresh Shrimp When Possible: While frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, fresh shrimp will provide the best texture and flavor. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease.

• Dry the Shrimp: Patting the shrimp dry before seasoning them ensures they sear properly and don’t steam in the pan.

• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook very fast—typically just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

• Watch the Garlic Closely: Garlic burns easily. Sauté just until fragrant and lightly golden, not brown, to avoid bitterness.

• Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne to your spice preference. You can also add red pepper flakes for a different kind of kick.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Traditionally, Hawaiian garlic shrimp is served with white jasmine rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. Some food trucks even drizzle extra garlic butter over the rice—a practice worth repeating at home.

For a more complete island plate, consider serving it with:

• Macaroni Salad – A creamy, chilled contrast to the hot and garlicky shrimp.

• Grilled Pineapple – Adds sweetness and brightness.

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Green beans, zucchini, or broccoli pair well.

• Coconut Rice – Offers a richer, tropical twist on traditional white rice.

• Toasted Bread or Garlic Bread – Perfect for sopping up the sauce if you’re skipping the rice.

Beverage pairings can include a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a cold lager, or even a coconut water mojito for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Variations to Explore

The versatility of this dish makes it easy to adapt to different diets and preferences:

• Low-Carb/Keto: Serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.

• Shell-On Shrimp: For a more authentic North Shore experience, cook the shrimp with shells on to lock in more flavor.

• Spicy Lovers: Add minced chili peppers or a splash of chili garlic sauce.

• Asian-Inspired Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of soy sauce or sesame oil for a slightly different umami profile.

• Garlic-Lemon Cream Sauce: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce, perfect with pasta.

Nutritional Highlights

Despite its rich flavor, this dish offers a number of nutritional benefits. Shrimp is a lean source of protein and is low in calories while being high in essential nutrients like selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. The garlic provides powerful antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties. Meanwhile, the inclusion of olive oil offers healthy monounsaturated fats.

Of course, the butter content does contribute to the dish’s fat and calorie count, so portion control can be helpful for those on a lower-fat diet. However, since this dish is so flavorful, a small serving goes a long way in satisfying your taste buds.

Why This Recipe Works for Everyone

One of the most appealing aspects of Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp is how approachable and flexible it is. It doesn’t require exotic ingredients or advanced cooking techniques. In fact, it’s ideal for beginner cooks looking to elevate their skills without taking on too much at once.

It also fits a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re throwing a backyard BBQ, prepping a quick weeknight dinner, or hosting a tropical-themed gathering, garlic shrimp brings bold flavor with minimal prep and cook time. Plus, the aromatic garlic and sizzling butter are almost guaranteed to make anyone walking into your kitchen immediately hungry.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best eaten fresh, you can prep some components in advance:

• Pre-mix the spice and flour blend so it’s ready to toss with shrimp.

• Mince garlic in advance and store in a sealed container for up to 2 days.

• Cooked shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture.

Avoid freezing, as cooked shrimp can become rubbery when thawed and reheated.

Conclusion

Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp captures the heart and soul of island cooking—simple, bold, and full of aloha. It’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary ingredients into something truly special, thanks to a few key flavor-building techniques. Whether you’re longing for the warm breezes of the Pacific or simply want a satisfying seafood dinner, this recipe delivers with every garlicky, buttery bite.

With its quick prep, customizable heat, and universal appeal, Hawaiian garlic shrimp earns a place not only at the dinner table but also in your regular recipe rotation. Pair it with rice and sunshine—or a good tropical playlist—and you’re one step closer to paradise.