Aloha Flavor: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Craving a taste of the islands? This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe is your passport to a tropical culinary adventure. It’s a delightful fusion of classic Italian scampi and the vibrant flavors of Hawaii, featuring juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a hint of sweetness and a touch of island flair. This dish is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it as a weeknight meal or entertaining guests. So, grab your ingredients, crank up the ukulele music, and let’s transport ourselves to paradise one delicious bite at a time!

Why This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it perfectly balances the richness of garlic butter with the bright, tropical notes that define Hawaiian cuisine. Here’s why it works so well:

• Flavor Fusion: It marries the familiar comfort of garlic scampi with the unique sweetness of pineapple juice and the savory depth of soy sauce, creating a complex and harmonious flavor profile.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The irresistible combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp makes this recipe a guaranteed hit with everyone.
• Island Vibes: The pineapple juice and soy sauce provide a subtle yet distinct Hawaiian twist, transporting your taste buds to the tropics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi:

• Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. We recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Make sure they are thoroughly dried before cooking.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced. Don’t be shy with the garlic – it’s the star of the show! Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the best flavor.
• Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted. Butter provides the richness and lusciousness of the sauce.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil helps to prevent the butter from burning and adds a subtle fruity note.
• Pineapple Juice: 1/4 cup. Pineapple juice adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flavor that defines this Hawaiian twist. Use unsweetened pineapple juice to control the sweetness.
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon. Soy sauce adds a savory depth and umami that complements the sweetness of the pineapple juice. Use low-sodium soy sauce to avoid overpowering the dish with salt.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Lemon juice adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. Freshly squeezed is always best!
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or more, to taste). Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat that complements the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Green Onions: 2 tablespoons, thinly sliced. Green onions add a mild onion flavor and a touch of freshness.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Pasta or Rice: For serving (optional). Cooked pasta or rice provides a perfect base for the shrimp and sauce. Linguine, spaghetti, or jasmine rice are all excellent choices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear and preventing them from steaming. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Combine and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley and green onions. Toss the shrimp in the sauce to coat evenly. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Garnish with extra parsley and green onions, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Here are a few tips to ensure your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
• Pat the Shrimp Dry: Drying the shrimp before cooking allows them to sear properly and develop a beautiful color.
• Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This will help to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
• Adjust the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served immediately, while the shrimp is still hot and the sauce is still flavorful.
• Deglaze the Pan (Optional): After removing the shrimp from the pan, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to add even more flavor to the sauce. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Add a Pinch of Sugar (Optional): If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
• Consider Adding Vegetables: For a more complete meal, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the garlic.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to customize your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi? Here are a few variations and substitutions to try:

• Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Coconut Shrimp Scampi: Replace the pineapple juice with coconut milk for a creamier and more tropical flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi: Omit the pineapple juice and increase the amount of lemon juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
• Vegetarian Shrimp Scampi: Substitute the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Gluten-Free Shrimp Scampi: Serve the shrimp scampi over rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option. Be sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce, as tamari is gluten-free.
• Add Some Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of color.
• Use Different Seafood: You can substitute the shrimp with scallops, lobster, or crab meat.
• Add a Splash of Sherry: A splash of dry sherry added to the sauce can enhance the flavor and add complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some delicious ways to serve your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi:

• Over Pasta: Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine are all excellent choices for serving with shrimp scampi. Toss the pasta with the sauce and shrimp for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Over Rice: Jasmine rice or brown rice are great options for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve the shrimp scampi with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp scampi in small bowls as an appetizer.
• With a Side Salad: Serve the shrimp scampi with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement.
• Grilled Pineapple: Serve alongside grilled pineapple slices for an extra dose of tropical flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the shrimp scampi in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this can make the shrimp tough. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the shrimp and add it to the sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

This dish can be made gluten-free by serving it over rice noodles or zucchini noodles and using tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the garlic.

Can I use a different type of oil?

While olive oil is recommended, you can use other oils such as coconut oil or avocado oil.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

The shrimp is cooked when it is pink and opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the shrimp tough and rubbery.

What if I don’t have pineapple juice?

If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute it with a mixture of apple juice and a small amount of brown sugar.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe is a delightful and easy way to bring the flavors of the islands to your kitchen. With its perfect balance of garlic, butter, and tropical sweetness, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a taste of paradise! Aloha!

Enjoy!

We hope you enjoy this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe! Please let us know in the comments below if you tried it and how it turned out. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!