Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway? Bring the vibrant flavors of Hawaii to your dinner table with this incredibly easy and delicious Hawaiian Shrimp Scampi recipe! This dish is bursting with fresh, bright tastes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more leisurely weekend meal. It's a healthy, homemade option that rivals any restaurant experience, proving that amazing food doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the islands!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Sauté the Garlic: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can quickly become bitter.
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Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly. This step adds depth of flavor. If omitting, proceed directly to the next step.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If you prefer a spicier dish, add the red pepper flakes now.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
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Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the Hawaiian Shrimp Scampi immediately over cooked rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Hawaiian Shrimp Scampi:
- Buy high-quality shrimp: The better the shrimp, the better the dish will taste. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a fresh, slightly sweet smell.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust the spice level: If you don't like spicy food, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a little more.
- Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra texture.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for a more complete meal. Add them to the skillet with the garlic.
- Lemon twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice at the end for a zesty twist.
- Coconut milk: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of coconut milk along with the cilantro.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This quick and easy Hawaiian Shrimp Scampi recipe is a fantastic choice for a healthy and delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy this taste of paradise!