Perfectly Grilled Shrimp Simple Smoky and Delicious
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a taste of summer? Want to know how to cook grilled shrimp that's bursting with flavor? Honestly, this recipe is a game changer, it's so easy, even I can manage it after a few shandies!
Brief Overview
Grilled shrimp, or prawns as we say, is a dish loved around the globe. This recipe is super simple and quick.
It serves about 4 people and only takes about 20 minutes to make, and it has to be one of the best shrimp dishes .
Main Benefits
This recipe is not just delicious, it's pretty healthy too! Shrimp is packed with protein and low in calories. It's the perfect dish for a BBQ with mates or a light summer dinner.
What makes it special? The garlic, lemon, and subtle smokiness.
Garlic Shrimp Marinade: The Secret Weapon
The key to amazing grilled shrimp dishes is the marinade. It infuses the shrimp with flavor and helps them stay juicy on the grill.
My marinade shrimp recipe is a cinch to whip up.
I remember the first time I made this. I was hosting a BBQ, trying to impress everyone. I panicked. But then, I found this recipe, and it was a total lifesaver.
Honestly, it's foolproof!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Recipe: Ingredients You'll Need
You'll need about 1.5 lbs of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. For the garlic shrimp marinade , grab 3 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and some lemon juice.
Don't forget smoked paprika and chili flakes for that extra punch. A bit of salt, pepper, and fresh parsley will finish it off nicely.
You know?, sometimes I add a tiny drop of agave for the hell of it.
Ingredients & Kit for the Best Grilled Shrimp
Right, let's talk ingredients. You can't learn how to cook grilled shrimp without them, duh! This is where the magic starts.
Think of it like building a cracking sandwich; quality in, flavour out, right?
Main Ingredients for Seriously Good Shrimp
- 1.5 lbs (680g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined. I prefer tails off, less mess!
- 3 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, extra virgin if you're feeling fancy.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh is best mate.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - this makes all the difference!
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional).
When buying shrimp, look for firm flesh and a fresh, sea-like smell. Avoid anything that smells fishy or ammonia like, yeah? Fresh is always best, but frozen works a charm too.
Just make sure they're fully thawed before you start grilling. For the marinade shrimp , you want something that will cling.
Seasoning Secrets
The secret to amazing grilled shrimp dishes is the marinade. Garlic and lemon are classic, but that smoked paprika? Oh my gosh! It adds a smoky depth.
Chili flakes bring the heat. Honestly, play around and see what you like. Want something different? Try Italian seasoning.
If you're out of smoked paprika, a pinch of regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke can work. You can even use some cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
These best shrimp dishes also works with lime instead of lemon for a zesty vibe.
Kit List: What You Really Need
- Mixing bowl.
- Whisk.
- Grill (gas or charcoal).
- Skewers (optional).
- Tongs.
- Grill brush.
No fancy stuff needed here. A fork can sub for a whisk if you're in a pinch. If you are doing grilled shrimp skewers some good metal ones are ace but wooden ones work if you soak them first.
Tongs are essential for flipping the shrimp. They are so small that you need to work with proper equipment!
Here's the main thing: you need to know how to grill shrimp without sticking . Make sure that the grill is clean and preheated with a grill brush.
This is how to create perfect grilled shrimp temperature. So let's get down to business!
Cooking Method: Perfectly Grilled Shrimp
Alright, let's dive straight in. Ever wondered how to cook grilled shrimp that’s actually juicy and flavourful, not rubbery and sad? I'm talking restaurant quality, but from your own back garden.
It’s totally achievable. Honestly, with a few simple tricks, you can nail it every time. And we are talking on some serious Best Shrimp Dishes .
Prep Steps That Actually Matter
First up: Essential mise en place . Get everything ready before you even think about turning on the grill. It's like prepping for a Bake Off challenge.
Peel and devein about 1.5 lbs (680g) of those beauts. Whisk together 3 cloves minced garlic , 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil , 2 tablespoons lemon juice , 1 teaspoon smoked paprika , 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes , 1/4 teaspoon salt , and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper .
Now for time saving organization tips . You can even thread them onto skewers now if you like a good Grilled shrimp skewers .
If using wooden skewers, soak 'em in water for 30 mins, otherwise, you get a lovely charred stick surprise. Don’t forget the grill brush to have the best Shrimp Recipes On Grill .
step-by-step to Grilled Shrimp Glory
Okay, here’s how to grill shrimp without sticking and achieving that perfect doneness:
- Marinade those bad boys : Toss the shrimp in your Garlic Shrimp Marinade .
- Chill out : Let them marinate for at least 30 mins. This is how you get the Marinade Shrimp just right.
- Get hot : Preheat your grill to medium high heat (375- 400° F or 190- 205° C) .
- Grease it : Lightly oil the grill grates, or the shrimp WILL stick.
- Grill time : Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2- 3 minutes per side .
- Look for the pink : They're done when they turn pink and opaque. The perfect grilled shrimp temperature should reach 145° F ( 63° C).
- Serve it up : Serve immediately, ideally outside with a beer.
Pro Tips From Your Pal
Right, let's drop some knowledge. Here's an expert technique : Pat the shrimp dry before marinating for better colour. Avoid overcooking .
Shrimp cook fast , so stay vigilant. For a quick trick, use metal skewers. These cook the shrimp from the inside too.
And that's it! You now know how to cook grilled shrimp that's going to make your next BBQ a smash hit.
Grilled shrimp dishes are a crowd pleaser, and this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Next time, try adding some fresh herbs to the marinade for an extra flavour kick, or try a sweet chilli dipping sauce.
The possibilities are endless, you know?
Recipe Notes: Ace your Grilled Shrimp Dishes
Right then, you've got the gist of how to cook grilled shrimp . But before you grab those tongs, let's cover a few extra bits.
These little nuggets will take you from BBQ basic to grilling genius! Trust me, it is easier than you think.
Serving Suggestions: Show Off Time!
Forget just plonking them on a plate! Think presentation, yeah? A few sprigs of parsley, a lemon wedge, proper fancy.
For sides, you can't go wrong with grilled corn. A light quinoa salad works a treat. Or even a dollop of garlic aioli.
Wash it all down with an ice-cold beer. Best Shrimp Dishes , hands down!
Storage Tips: Leftover Love
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop them in the fridge. They will keep for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Freezing? Not ideal, tbh. They can get a bit rubbery. Reheating is best done gently. A quick pan-fry or a zap in the microwave will do.
Just don't overdo it!
Variations: Get Creative
Fancy a tweak? Go wild! For spicy shrimp, chuck in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Garlic Shrimp Marinade is a great starting point for your own creative take.
If you are after something herby, use rosemary or thyme. Lemon herb shrimp is really just swapping the smoked paprika and chili flakes with Italian seasoning.
Sorted.
Nutrition Basics: Guilt Free Grilling
Each serving has about 220 calories. You will get 30g of protein. 10g of fat and 2g of carbs. Plus, it is a good source of Omega 3s, so it has health benefits.
This is just an estimate, mind. It depends on your ingredients and your marinade.
Honestly, shrimp recipes on grill are surprisingly easy. Don't be intimidated! With these notes, you are well on your way to grilling some top-notch grilled shrimp skewers .
So, fire up that barbie and give it a go!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my grilled shrimp are done? I don't want them to be like rubber!
Spot on, no one likes rubbery shrimp! The key is to watch for the color change. Grilled shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, and the flesh is firm to the touch. As soon as they hit that point, get them off the grill pronto, or you'll be chewing on something akin to an eraser!
Can I marinate the shrimp for longer than 30 minutes? What's the Goldilocks zone?
You can marinate for longer, up to 2 hours is perfect, but be careful! Marinating shrimp for too long, especially in acidic marinades like this one with lemon juice, can actually start to "cook" the shrimp and make them mushy. Think of it like pickling a little is good, too much and it's all gone wrong.
I'm having a barbie next weekend. What's the best way to prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, or falling through the grates?
Nobody wants a shrimp casualty at a BBQ! Make sure your grill is clean and screaming hot before you start. Lightly oiling the grates just before placing the shrimp on will also do the trick and prevent sticking.
If you're still nervous about losing them through the grates, use skewers they make grilling smaller items a total doddle.
How to cook grilled shrimp on skewers vs. directly on the grill - which is better?
Both ways have their merits! Grilling directly on the grates gives you a beautiful char and smoky flavor, but requires a bit more attention to prevent sticking. Skewers make handling easier and are especially good for smaller shrimp, but you might not get quite as much char.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to stop them from burning.
What are some variations I can make to this grilled shrimp recipe to spice things up?
Fancy a bit of a change, do we? If you want to add a spicy kick, a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade does the trick. Alternatively, try adding some fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even a bit of finely chopped chili.
Play around with the flavors and see what takes your fancy!
Perfectly Grilled Shrimp Simple Smoky And Delici
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 calories |
|---|---|
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
