Name: Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 pound large uncooked shrimp; 1/2 teaspoon coarse Hawaiian sea salt (or regular coarse sea salt); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; juice from half of a large lemon; 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 4 tablespoons salted butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 57 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the vibrant, tropical flavors of the islands in your own kitchen, look no further than this Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe. It’s a quick and delightful dish that perfectly balances juicy, succulent shrimp with the rich, buttery garlic sauce that practically sings with hints of tangy lemon and warm sea salt. Every bite transports you straight to a sunny beachside spot, where food is fresh, simple, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re craving a fast weeknight dinner or a lively dish to impress guests, this recipe brings that authentic island vibe right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe relies on a few simple but powerhouse ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element adds something special—from the smooth richness of butter to the zesty punch of lemon juice, making the shrimp the star of the show without overwhelming it.

1 pound large uncooked shrimp: Fresh or thawed, these are the heart of the dish, providing tender, juicy seafood goodness.
5 Tablespoons olive oil (divided): Adds a silky base that brings out the shrimp’s natural sweetness and helps carry the garlic flavor.
4 Tablespoons salted butter (divided): Offers creamy richness and a slight saltiness that elevates the sauce beautifully.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is the aromatic soul of this recipe, infusing the dish with savory warmth and irresistible fragrance.
Juice from half of a large lemon: Provides a bright, tangy contrast that cuts through the butter and balances the dish perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon coarse Hawaiian sea salt (or regular coarse sea salt): Adds that authentic island texture and seasoning punch for a truly Hawaiian flair.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just the right amount of gentle heat to wake up your taste buds.
1/4 teaspoon paprika: Delivers a mild smoky undertone and gorgeous color to the final dish.

How to Make Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Oils and Butter with Garlic

Start by gently warming 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Let the butter melt slowly until it combines smoothly with the olive oil. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant and starts to caramelize slightly. This step builds a deep, irresistible aroma that sets the stage for the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Remaining Fats

Next, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, Hawaiian sea salt, black pepper, and paprika. These ingredients create a vibrant flavor mix that perfectly balances richness and brightness. Follow with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter, letting everything meld together on low heat for about two minutes. This slow cooking will develop a luscious sauce that clings to every shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Carefully place the shrimp into the skillet, making sure not to crowd them. Cook each side for just two minutes, or until the shrimp transform into a vivid orange-pink shade. Shrimp cooks quickly, and this brief time ensures tenderness and juiciness without any rubbery texture. Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them gently in the garlicky sauce to soak up all that island flavor.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Serve the garlic shrimp immediately over a bed of fluffy rice and drizzle the flavorful sauce on top. This simple presentation celebrates the bold, fresh flavors of the shrimp, making every bite a true delight that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and a touch of herbal freshness that balances the rich garlic butter sauce. For a bit of heat, add a few thin slices of fresh chili or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. A wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add even more citrus zing if they like.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with traditional steamed white rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly, but you can also try garlic fried rice for an extra flavor boost. For a lighter side, a crisp green salad with a tropical fruit vinaigrette or grilled pineapple slices enhances the island-inspired vibe. Roasted or sautéed veggies like asparagus or green beans create a nice contrast in texture and keep the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the shrimp in warm, soft tortillas with a drizzle of the garlic sauce and a crunchy slaw for an island-style taco. You can also pile the shrimp atop a bed of coconut rice or even pasta for a fusion take. Arranging them on a tropical leaf or colorful platter can instantly turn your meal into a festive occasion that looks as fantastic as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume within 2 days to enjoy the shrimp at their freshest and juiciest. The sauce may thicken slightly but can be easily reheated and loosened with a splash of lemon juice or olive oil.

Freezing

Freezing cooked shrimp isn’t ideal since the texture can change, but if necessary, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers. Use within one month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to warm through without overcooking. Adding a little extra butter or olive oil helps restore the sauce’s luscious texture. Avoid high heat or microwaving for too long as the shrimp can easily become tough.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture that could interfere with browning and texture.

Is there a substitute for Hawaiian sea salt?

If you don’t have Hawaiian sea salt on hand, regular coarse sea salt or kosher salt works fine. Hawaiian sea salt adds a unique mineral flavor, but the dish still tastes fantastic with standard salts.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Adding crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or sprinkling cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix gives the shrimp a nice kick without overpowering the delicate garlic sauce.

How long can leftovers be kept?

Refrigerated leftovers should be eaten within 2 days for the best flavor and safety. Beyond that, shrimp can lose its texture and taste.

What’s the best rice to serve with this dish?

Steamed jasmine or long-grain white rice are great choices because their subtle flavors complement the garlicky shrimp without competing. You can also try coconut rice for an extra tropical touch.

Final Thoughts

Making this Hawaiian Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe is like giving yourself a mini vacation with every meal. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with the kind of bold yet comforting flavors that never fail to impress. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish promises a delicious escape to the sunny islands any time you want. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!