This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi blends the savory richness of garlic butter with the sweet tropical flavors of pineapple, creating a unique and vibrant dish. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, tender and juicy, while the garlic and butter sauce envelop the shrimp with a delightful depth of flavor. The fresh lemon zest and parsley add a hint of freshness, making this meal a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
This dish is ideal for a casual dinner or when you want to impress guests with a fusion of tropical and traditional flavors. Whether served over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, it will be a hit at any table. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
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1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
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1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/2 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
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Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce, scraping up any bits stuck to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and pineapple chunks. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes.
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Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed, and top with fresh basil if desired.
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Serve hot over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Magic Behind Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi
The magic of Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi lies in its simplicity. The combination of shrimp, garlic, butter, and a few select seasonings, when paired with fresh pineapple, creates a dish bursting with flavor. The garlic, sautéed to golden perfection, brings a robust flavor to the shrimp, while the pineapple offers a juicy contrast, giving the dish a fresh, fruity balance. This dish can easily be served over rice, pasta, or even steamed vegetables, making it versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Garlic shrimp, in its most basic form, is a classic favorite, and many of us have likely enjoyed it during trips to coastal areas. What sets this Hawaiian version apart is the addition of pineapple and lemon, infusing an extra layer of complexity. The garlic butter sauce, rich and savory, complements the tangy pineapple, making each bite a delightful mixture of tropical and savory notes.
Why Use Shell-On Shrimp?
In this recipe, the use of shell-on shrimp is not just about authenticity. While it is entirely possible to peel the shrimp before cooking for ease of eating, keeping the shells on during the cooking process imparts more flavor to the shrimp. The shells help lock in the natural juices and flavors, giving the shrimp a more intense taste. Additionally, when you cook shrimp in their shells, you allow the garlic butter sauce to soak into the shell, further enriching the dish with every bite.
However, if you prefer the ease of eating shell-off shrimp, the recipe will still taste fantastic. Some people might prefer the shell-off option, especially when serving children or those who don’t enjoy peeling shrimp mid-meal. Both options yield a delicious dish, but the shell-on version does provide a more authentic taste reminiscent of the famous Hawaiian shrimp trucks, which you’ll find dotted around the islands.
Tropical Ingredients Make a Difference
Pineapple is the star of this dish, bringing a refreshing sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with garlic and butter. While pineapple may not be a typical ingredient in traditional garlic shrimp scampi, it elevates this dish to something uniquely tropical. The sweetness from the pineapple balances the rich garlic butter sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that is both unexpected and delicious. You can use fresh pineapple for the juiciest, most vibrant taste, or canned pineapple in a pinch. Either way, the result will be a dish that truly embodies the flavors of Hawaii.
Lemon also plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the sauce. Its bright, zesty flavor lifts the entire dish, cutting through the buttery shrimp and adding a touch of freshness that harmonizes with the pineapple’s sweetness. If you’re a fan of citrus, a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving can intensify the dish’s flavor and make it even more vibrant.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi is its versatility. While the recipe calls for a specific set of ingredients, you can easily adjust it based on what you have available or your dietary preferences. For example, if you want a bit of heat, adding more cayenne pepper or even a pinch of chili flakes will give the dish a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the sweet pineapple.
For those with dietary restrictions, you can swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative or opt for gluten-free rice flour instead of regular flour. Similarly, you could try different types of shrimp, such as smaller shrimp or even prawns, to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, serving the shrimp on a bed of cauliflower rice can be a great alternative to traditional white rice.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. Traditionally, it’s served over steamed white rice, which acts as a neutral base to soak up the flavorful sauce. However, you could also serve it over pasta, particularly spaghetti or linguine, for a more traditional scampi experience. If you want something lighter, a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables can make a delicious and healthy accompaniment.
For a true tropical feel, you could serve it with a side of grilled pineapple or a coconut-infused rice dish. The combination of the savory shrimp with the sweetness of grilled pineapple will transport you to the beaches of Hawaii with every bite.
Why Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi Is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is a winner for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, cooking for a family dinner, or simply craving something different for date night, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi delivers in both flavor and presentation. The vibrant, golden shrimp against the tropical backdrop of pineapple makes for a visually appealing dish that will impress your guests.
Even better, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table that will leave your guests raving. The combination of the bold garlic butter sauce, the fresh and tangy pineapple, and the juicy shrimp will leave everyone wanting more.
Conclusion: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Dish
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a deliciously unique take on the classic garlic shrimp dish. The tropical addition of pineapple adds a refreshing twist, making this dish feel both indulgent and light. Whether you enjoy it with the shells on or off, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the vibrant flavors of Hawaii. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to recreate this tropical favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether served over rice, pasta, or veggies, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Scampi is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.