A weekend barbecue isn’t complete without the delicious flavor of marinated grilled shrimp. This dish combines the sweet and savory notes of garlic, lemon, and spices, resulting in tender shrimp that are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual gathering or enjoying a family cookout, these shrimp will impress everyone at the table.
Marinated Grilled Shrimp
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Tender marinated grilled shrimp bursting with sweet and savory flavors, perfect for summer cookouts.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss well to coat each piece evenly in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the shrimp to a resealable plastic bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers if using.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use wild-caught shrimp and avoid overcooking them to maintain tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the primary reasons to love this grilled shrimp is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for any occasion. The marinade not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the shrimp, ensuring a succulent bite every time.
“Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned—this is my go-to recipe for summertime grilling!”
Made in just a matter of minutes, it’s ideal for last-minute dinner parties or a laid-back weeknight meal. Plus, shrimp cooks so fast on the grill that you can focus on your drinks and conversation while they’re sizzling away.
How it comes together
Cooking this shrimp is as straightforward as it gets. Start by marinating the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow all those flavors to meld beautifully. Once they’ve soaked up all that goodness, just fire up the grill and cook them until they turn pink and opaque.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 5 min | Total Time: 45 min (including marinating time)
What you’ll need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, or even add herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss well to coat each piece evenly in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the shrimp to a resealable plastic bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers if using.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
Grilled shrimp can be presented in a variety of appetizing ways. Serve skewers directly from the grill as an appetizer, or toss the shrimp over a fresh salad for a light meal. They also pair beautifully with sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a zesty coleslaw. For a fun twist, try them in tacos topped with avocado and salsa or blended into a pasta dish with a light garlic sauce.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp tough and rubbery. If you want to keep them longer, cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container after cooling.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, choose shrimp that are wild-caught if possible—they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than farmed options. Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes on the grill. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely beforehand to ensure even cooking.
Creative twists
This dish is highly versatile, so feel free to experiment with flavors! Try adding lime juice for a citrusy zing, or toss in some fresh herbs. You can also switch up the spices. Replace paprika with chili powder or add some fresh ginger for an Asian-inspired twist. Pair shrimp with different dips like a spicy aioli or a mango salsa for even more flavor options.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can work just fine! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, typically 2-3 minutes per side on the grill. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
What can I do with leftover shrimp?
Leftover shrimp can be enjoyed in a variety of ways! Consider adding them to salads, mixing them into pasta dishes, or even incorporating them into stir-fries.