Maui Wowie Shrimp

If you’re craving a tropical getaway in just one bite, this Maui Wowie Shrimp recipe delivers bold, island-inspired flavors straight from the grill. Juicy shrimp are coated in a rich layer of mayonnaise, seasoned with garlic and spices, then charred to perfection over an open flame. The result? A mouthwatering seafood dish with a crispy, golden-brown crust and an irresistible smoky finish. Perfect for backyard barbecues or casual beachside dining, these Hawaiian-style shrimp skewers are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Serve them hot off the grill with a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick, or pair them with coconut rice and a fresh pineapple salsa for the ultimate tropical feast. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just treating yourself to a gourmet seafood dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers.
3. Season both sides of shrimp with garlic salt and black pepper. If using cayenne, mix it into the mayonnaise before coating.
4. Generously coat both sides of shrimp with mayonnaise.
5. Grill shrimp until they turn bright pink and opaque inside, and the mayonnaise turns golden brown, about 5-10 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Maui Wowie Shrimp: A Taste of the Hawaiian Islands on Your Grill

Nothing captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine quite like Maui Wowie Shrimp. This dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors, making it a favorite for seafood lovers who appreciate quick and delicious recipes. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or just craving something light and flavorful, this dish delivers a mouthwatering experience.

Grilled shrimp has always been a staple in tropical cuisine, and in this Hawaiian-inspired recipe, a unique twist takes it to the next level. The key ingredient? Mayonnaise. While it may seem unconventional, mayo acts as both a marinade and a cooking aid, helping the shrimp develop a beautifully golden crust while locking in moisture. The result is a juicy, tender bite with a slightly smoky and tangy flavor profile.

The Origin of Maui Wowie Shrimp

Hawaii is known for its vibrant food culture, which blends influences from native Hawaiian, Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, and American cuisines. Fresh seafood is an essential part of the local diet, and shrimp, in particular, plays a starring role in many beloved island dishes. From the famous shrimp trucks of Oahu’s North Shore to upscale seafood restaurants, the love for shrimp in Hawaiian cooking is undeniable.

While the exact origins of Maui Wowie Shrimp are unclear, its flavors reflect the tropical and diverse culinary influences of the islands. The use of mayonnaise is reminiscent of Japanese and Filipino cooking traditions, where creamy marinades are used to enhance the umami taste of grilled seafood. The addition of garlic salt, black pepper, and cayenne (optional for heat) ensures a well-balanced seasoning that highlights the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Why Mayonnaise? The Secret to Perfectly Grilled Shrimp

Many people are surprised to learn that mayonnaise is the key ingredient in Maui Wowie Shrimp. However, professional chefs and experienced home cooks alike swear by its ability to enhance grilled seafood. Here’s why mayo works so well in this dish:

1. Moisture Retention – Shrimp can dry out quickly when grilled over high heat. Mayonnaise helps lock in moisture, preventing the shrimp from becoming tough or rubbery.
2. Golden Brown Perfection – The oils and egg yolks in mayo caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a lightly crispy, golden-brown crust that enhances both texture and flavor.
3. Even Cooking – Unlike butter, which can drip off and cause flare-ups, mayo sticks to the shrimp, ensuring even cooking and preventing excessive charring.
4. Flavor Enhancement – The mild tang of mayonnaise pairs perfectly with garlic and spices, amplifying the overall taste without overpowering the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

If you’ve never grilled shrimp with mayonnaise before, this recipe is a fantastic introduction to the technique. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet light, making it a perfect choice for warm-weather dining.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

While Maui Wowie Shrimp is delicious on its own, it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a more substantial meal. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Coconut Rice – The creamy, slightly sweet flavor of coconut rice complements the savory grilled shrimp perfectly.
• Pineapple Salsa – A refreshing mix of diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice adds a tropical twist and a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the dish.
• Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus make great grilled companions, adding color and extra nutrients to your plate.
• Garlic Butter Noodles – Tossing some pasta or zucchini noodles in garlic butter enhances the dish’s overall richness while keeping it light and summery.
• Hawaiian Slaw – A crunchy cabbage slaw with a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky shrimp.

For an authentic island-style meal, serve these shrimp skewers alongside a Mai Tai or a fresh coconut water with lime. The tropical flavors will transport you straight to a Hawaiian beachside cookout.

Health Benefits of Maui Wowie Shrimp

Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it also offers several nutritional benefits. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Here are some of the key health benefits of enjoying Maui Wowie Shrimp:

1. High in Protein – Shrimp is packed with high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue.
2. Low in Calories – With just around 220 kcal per serving, this dish is light yet satisfying.
3. Rich in Omega-3s – Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health.
4. Loaded with Antioxidants – Astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant found in shrimp, helps reduce inflammation and supports healthy skin.
5. Naturally Low in Carbs – This recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet.

Additionally, the grilling method used in this recipe allows you to enjoy all these benefits without excess fat or calories from heavy sauces or frying.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Shrimp

Grilling shrimp may seem straightforward, but there are a few tricks to ensure you get the best results:

• Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp – Fresh wild-caught shrimp will always yield the best flavor, but if using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling.
• Keep the Skewers in Mind – If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Don’t Overcook – Shrimp cook quickly, usually within 5-10 minutes. Overcooking can lead to tough and rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on them.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor – While this recipe is simple, you can experiment by adding a bit of soy sauce, lime juice, or sriracha to the mayo mixture for additional depth of flavor.
• Use Medium Heat – Grilling over medium heat allows for even cooking without burning the mayo coating too quickly.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful seafood dish, Maui Wowie Shrimp is a must-try. It combines the best of Hawaiian-inspired cooking with an easy grilling method that anyone can master. The mayonnaise marinade might sound unconventional, but it works wonders in creating a juicy, perfectly charred shrimp dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, impressing guests at a summer barbecue, or simply craving a tropical escape through food, this dish is a guaranteed hit. With its bold flavors, easy preparation, and impressive health benefits, Maui Wowie Shrimp proves that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most delicious. So fire up your grill, grab some fresh shrimp, and let the flavors of the Hawaiian islands transport you to paradise!