When you’re craving a seafood dinner that’s bursting with flavor but doesn’t take hours to prepare, this easy Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. The succulent shrimp cooked with a savory garlic and butter sauce will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.
You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Plus, the bold flavors make it a standout meal that’s both satisfying and simple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 20 minutes for a fast seafood fix.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably have on hand.
- Bold garlic and buttery flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- Versatile—serve over rice, pasta, or with a fresh salad.
- Light and healthy, yet indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients for the perfect Hawaiian garlic shrimp dinner.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
How to Make Easy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: The Best Quick and Delicious Seafood Dinner Ever!
- Pat the shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add the shrimp in a single layer; cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Stir in the soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened and coats the shrimp.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
- Serve immediately with steamed white rice or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- Adjust the honey and soy sauce ratio to make it sweeter or saltier to your taste.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Serve with a squeeze of extra lemon juice to brighten the dish just before eating.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Hawaiian garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, place the shrimp in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best quality.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the shrimp tender and avoid overcooking. Avoid microwaving at high power, as it can make the shrimp tough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water.
What can I serve with Hawaiian garlic shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, coconut rice, garlic butter noodles, or a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is mild by default, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat if you like.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep this Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
