These grilled lemon garlic shrimp are delicious and super easy to make! Marinated in zesty lemon and garlic, they are perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
Let’s be real, shrimp on the grill is a win! I love serving them with a fresh salad or over rice. They cook fast, so don’t blink or you might miss them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for grilling as they turn juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, use smaller shrimp or even scallops instead. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as smaller pieces will cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re out or prefer a different taste, avocado oil or vegetable oil can work well, too. Both have high smoke points for grilling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use jarred minced garlic in a pinch. I always find that fresh makes dishes pop a bit more.
Lemon: Fresh lemons enhance the dish, but bottled lemon juice is a fine substitute. When using fresh lemons, you’ll get an extra aroma from the zest!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, use regular paprika or even chili powder for a different twist.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: I like to add these for a little heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to skip them or use a sprinkle of black pepper instead.
How Can You Marinate Shrimp Without Making It Tough?
Marinating shrimp just right is crucial to avoid a rubbery texture. The magic lies in the timing. Shrimp don’t need long to absorb flavors, so 15-30 minutes is perfect. Marinating longer can change their texture.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, whisking until mixed.
- Add shrimp to the bowl, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate. Set a timer for 15-30 minutes, and don’t forget to check!
- If in doubt, taste a piece to see if it’s ready.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 6-8 minutes of grilling time. Don’t forget to let the shrimp marinate for 15-30 minutes in the fridge to soak up all those tasty flavors. Overall, plan for around 30-45 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, pour in the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Then, zest and juice the lemon, adding both to the bowl. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Using a whisk, mix everything together to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add your shrimp! Toss the shrimp in the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. Just remember, the longer you marinate, the more flavor will soak in, but don’t exceed 30 minutes as shrimp can become tough.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp are marinating, get your grill ready. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil or use a non-stick spray.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
If you like, you can thread the shrimp onto skewers for easier grilling. Otherwise, you can place them directly on the grill. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque and develop a lovely char. Be careful not to overcook them!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. Toss the chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness. For a bright finishing touch, add lemon slices around the shrimp. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, lemon-garlic flavored shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also seal them in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Mix it up and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before adding the shrimp when you’re ready to grill.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a short time. Just be careful not to overcook them again!
What Can I Serve with Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
Grilled lemon garlic shrimp pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. They also make a great topping for tacos or in a wrap with fresh veggies.
