This marinated grilled shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty mixture of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, then grilled to perfection for a smoky flavor.
The recipe is straightforward and can be customized with your favorite spices or marinades. Serve the shrimp on skewers or over a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Preparation of the Marinade
Creating the marinade is a simple yet essential step that sets the foundation for the flavor of the grilled shrimp. Begin by combining olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
Whisk these ingredients together until they form a cohesive mixture. The garlic and lemon juice will infuse the shrimp with a zesty kick, while the paprika adds a touch of smokiness.
Marinating the Shrimp
Once the marinade is ready, it’s time to add the shrimp. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture. Place the shrimp in the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp, enhancing their taste when grilled.
Preparing the Grill
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A well-preheated grill is key to achieving that perfect char on the shrimp.
If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures that your shrimp stay securely in place.
Skewering the Shrimp
After marinating, it’s time to skewer the shrimp. Thread them onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece. This spacing allows for even cooking and ensures that the shrimp get that desirable char.
Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer for optimal results.
Grilling the Shrimp
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The shrimp will turn opaque and develop a beautiful golden color when they are done.
Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the grill for too long. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a moment.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, arrange the grilled shrimp skewers on a vibrant platter. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.
This dish is perfect for outdoor dining, especially when paired with a refreshing salad or grilled vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a delightful meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Easy Grilled Shrimp Recipe
This grilled shrimp features succulent shrimp marinated in a blend of garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp.
- Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges or over a salad.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 2g