I remember the first time I tried fresh pineapple. It wasn’t the canned kind, sitting in heavy syrup, but a slice offered by a friend whose family had just returned from Hawaii. That burst of tropical sweetness, so different from anything I’d ever tasted, instantly transported me. This Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe, with its sweet pineapple, tries to capture that same feeling, that instant vacation on a plate.
The salty, savory shrimp perfectly complements the sweet, tangy pineapple. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, a reminder of sunny beaches and warm breezes. It’s also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need a quick escape.
Why you’ll love this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with Sweet Pineapple
- It’s incredibly quick and easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes!
- The combination of savory garlic shrimp and sweet pineapple is a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
- This Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together with friends.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be served over rice, noodles, or even as a filling for tacos.
- The bright flavors of pineapple and fresh parsley make this dish visually appealing as well as delicious.
- It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen, no matter the weather outside.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions
Step 1
Hawaiian garlic shrimp makes every moment feel energetic. In a bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Marinate for at least 10 minutes. This allows the shrimp to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Step 2
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to shimmer.
Step 3
Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Step 4
Stir in the chopped pineapple during the last minute of cooking. Ensure the pineapple is heated through but still maintains some of its texture.
Step 5
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over cooked rice. The parsley adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce. A squeeze of lime juice at the end can also brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity. Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrients.
If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try using browned butter. To brown butter, simply continue cooking the melted butter until it turns a nutty brown color and releases a fragrant aroma. Watch it carefully to prevent burning! For an extra layer of flavor, add a little grated ginger to the marinade. The ginger complements the pineapple and garlic beautifully.
For a completely different twist, try grilling the shrimp instead of sautéing it. Marinate the shrimp as directed, then thread onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. The smoky char adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Make sure the grill is oiled well to prevent sticking.
Pairings
Coconut rice is the perfect accompaniment to this Hawaiian garlic shrimp. The subtle sweetness of the coconut complements the pineapple and garlic beautifully. A side of steamed or grilled asparagus provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor. The slight bitterness of the asparagus cuts through the richness of the shrimp.
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is another great option. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory shrimp. Consider adding some toasted macadamia nuts to the salad for extra crunch and a hint of Hawaiian flavor. For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp with quinoa or couscous.
If you’re looking for a beverage pairing, a crisp, dry white grape juice like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would be a great choice. The acidity of the grape juice will cut through the richness of the shrimp and complement the tropical flavors. Alternatively, a light and fruity cocktail like a pineapple mojito or a mango margarita would also be delicious. To take things in another direction, check out this creamy lemon truffles recipe, it offers a perfect dessert to round off the meal.
Serving ideas
For an elegant presentation, arrange the shrimp around a mound of coconut rice on a large platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and a few pineapple wedges. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the shrimp and rice. Serve immediately while the shrimp is hot and the sauce is glistening.
For a more casual presentation, serve the shrimp in individual bowls over rice. Top with a generous sprinkle of parsley and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also serve the shrimp as an appetizer. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and arrange them on a platter. Serve with a small bowl of dipping sauce.
Consider serving the shrimp with a side of Hawaiian rolls. The soft, sweet rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a fun and festive touch, serve the shrimp in hollowed-out pineapple halves. This is a great way to impress your guests and add a touch of tropical flair to your meal.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Store any leftover Hawaiian garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to let the shrimp cool completely before storing it. Properly stored, the shrimp will maintain its flavor and texture. After 2 days, the shrimp may become rubbery and lose its flavor.
Reheat the shrimp gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or pineapple juice to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat the shrimp in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid freezing cooked shrimp, as it can become tough and watery when thawed.
If you have leftover rice, store it separately in an airtight container. Reheat the rice in the microwave with a tablespoon of water to prevent it from drying out. Use leftover pineapple in smoothies or salads. Pineapple chunks can also be grilled or caramelized for a sweet and savory dessert.
Make-ahead
You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Store the marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensifies the taste of the dish. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the shrimp as directed.
Chop the pineapple and mince the garlic ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. This saves time and effort when you’re ready to cook. Cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat the rice just before serving.
The complete dish can be prepared a day in advance, though the shrimp is best served immediately after cooking. If preparing ahead, store the shrimp and rice separately and reheat them just before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving to maintain its freshness and vibrant color.
Common mistakes when making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with Sweet Pineapple
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it’s important to watch it carefully. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
- Overcrowding the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sauté. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn easily, so be sure to keep the heat at medium-high. Watch the garlic carefully and stir frequently. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
- Using canned pineapple in syrup: Fresh pineapple has a much better flavor and texture than canned pineapple in syrup. If you must use canned pineapple, be sure to drain it well.
- Not using enough butter: The butter is essential for creating a rich and flavorful sauce. Don’t skimp on the butter!
Final notes
This Hawaiian garlic shrimp is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of sunshine. It’s a quick and easy way to bring a little bit of paradise to your dinner table, any night of the week.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your liking. Add more or less red pepper flakes, use different vegetables, or try different types of rice. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process!
I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it brings me. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
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Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp with Sweet Pineapple
Succulent shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of sweet pineapple – a taste of the islands in every bite!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Stir in the chopped pineapple during the last minute of cooking. Ensure the pineapple is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over cooked rice.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use browned butter. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Serve with a side of coconut rice for an extra tropical touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 250mg