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Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe

Giovanni's Shrimp Truck Recipe - Freshly Ingredients

Let me take you back to my first visit to Oahu, specifically to the North Shore, where I stumbled upon a little gem that forever changed my perception of shrimp. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, known for its delicious garlic shrimp, had a line of eager patrons waiting for a taste of their famed dish. 
The aromas wafting from the food truck wrapped around me like a blanket, urging me to join the queue. As I savored that first bite, with the flavors exploding in my mouth, I knew I had to recreate this experience in my own kitchen. Here’s how you can do just that.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole head of garlic, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 pound of large shrimp, thoroughly deveined
  • 1/4 cup of light vegetable oil
  • 1 stick of rich, creamy butter
  • 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1-2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Start by gathering all the ingredients. Clean the shrimp under cold water and ensure they are deveined; this step can't be skipped! Peel the garlic and chop it finely. Having everything ready makes the cooking process quicker and smoother.
Step 2: Heat the Base
  1. In a large skillet, pour in the light vegetable oil and half of the stick of butter. Heat it over medium flame. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped garlic. Sauté the garlic until it’s golden brown; be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can ruin the dish.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp
  1. Once your kitchen fills with the delightful garlic aroma, add the shrimp to the skillet. That sizzle is music to my ears! Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip them over and repeat on the other side.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
  1. Now, sprinkle the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the shrimp. Stir well, allowing the spices to coat each shrimp beautifully. The colors should be vivid, a good sign of flavor!
Step 5: The Finishing Touch
  1. Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them for that citrusy zest and add the remaining butter. Toss the shrimp gently in the pan to ensure they’re well coated with that garlicky, buttery goodness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of color.
Step 6: Serve it Up
  1. Plate the shrimp elegantly, perhaps with a side of lemon wedges. You’ll want to capture that Instagram-worthy photo before you dive in. Trust me; this dish is as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Notes

  • Shrimp Quality: Always use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. Frozen shrimp should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture.
  • Butter Vs. Oil: Using a combination of butter and oil prevents the butter from burning, while oil adds a nice crunch when you sear the shrimp.
  • Add Extra Flavor: Customize the spice level by adjusting the cayenne pepper amount. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of hot sauce for an additional kick.
  • Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your shrimp; they cook fast. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
  • Serve with Sides: Pair the shrimp with garlic bread, rice, or a refreshing salad to complete the meal.