Introduction
Grilled shrimp is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. This easy recipe packs a punch with vibrant flavors from garlic, lemon, and a mix of spices, making it an impressive entrée that comes together in just a matter of minutes. Let’s dive into this delightful grilled shrimp recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Prep Time
10–15 minutes
Cook Time
4–6 minutes
Total Time
14–21 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If desired, remove the tails.
2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), smoked or sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let the shrimp rest in the marinade for 10–15 minutes, but no more than 30 minutes to prevent the citrus from starting to “cook” the shrimp.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp directly on the grill, spacing them out for even cooking. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Serve: Allow the cooked shrimp to rest for a minute or two, then arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If desired, remove the tails.
Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), smoked or sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let the shrimp rest in the marinade for 10–15 minutes, but no more than 30 minutes to prevent the citrus from starting to “cook” the shrimp.
Preheat the Grill
Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet to prevent sticking.
Grill the Shrimp
Place the shrimp directly on the grill, spacing them out for even cooking. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Serve
Allow the cooked shrimp to rest for a minute or two, then arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Notes
Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor. Ensure they are peeled and deveined before marinating.
Marinating Time
Do not marinate the shrimp for more than 30 minutes as the acidity in the lemon juice can start to “cook” them.
Grill Temperature
A medium-high grill will ensure that the shrimp cook evenly and quickly.
Garnish and Serving
Chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch to the dish. Serve with additional lemon wedges for a zesty flavor.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Removing the tails is optional but can make for easier eating.
Making the Marinade
Combine olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, red pepper flakes (if desired), smoked or sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This blend enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
Marinating the Shrimp
Add the cleaned shrimp to the marinade and toss gently. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes. Avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes to prevent the acidity of the lemon juice from starting to “cook” the shrimp.
Preheating the Grill
Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet to ensure the shrimp do not stick while cooking.
Grilling the Shrimp
Place the marinated shrimp directly on the grill, spacing them for even cooking. Grill for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.
Serving the Shrimp
Allow the grilled shrimp to rest briefly before arranging them on a platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges to enhance the flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
What can I serve with grilled shrimp?
Grilled shrimp pairs well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it in tacos or over pasta.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are done cooking when they turn pink and opaque. They should also form a ‘C’ shape. Overcooking can make them tough.
Can I adjust the spice level of the marinade?
Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely according to your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to marinate the shrimp?
While marinating infuses flavor, if you’re short on time, you can grill the shrimp without marinating. Just season them with salt and pepper before cooking.
Conclusion
Grilled shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that can elevate any meal. The combination of garlic, lemon, and spices creates a flavorful experience that’s sure to impress. Whether served as an appetizer or the main course, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare.
Shrimp Tacos
For a fun twist, use the grilled shrimp as a filling for tacos. Top them with fresh avocado, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema for a vibrant meal.
Pasta with Grilled Shrimp
Combine grilled shrimp with your favorite pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, tossed in a garlic and olive oil sauce for a satisfying dish.
Shrimp Caesar Salad
Add grilled shrimp to a classic Caesar salad for a protein boost. The shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Alternate the shrimp on skewers with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Brush with extra marinade before grilling for enhanced flavor.
Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl
Serve grilled shrimp over a bed of quinoa with roasted vegetables and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and filling meal.
Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice
Incorporate grilled shrimp into fried rice, adding vegetables, soy sauce, and a hint of sriracha for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
Use grilled shrimp in a creamy corn chowder for a comforting dish that features a great mix of textures and flavors.
Shrimp Bruschetta
Top toasted baguette slices with grilled shrimp, diced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a delightful appetizer.
