Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Summer evenings at our house are synonymous with the smell of grilling, and for my family, nothing screams ‘summer’ quite like the tantalizing aroma of marinated grilled shrimp. I stumbled upon this recipe a few years back, and it has quickly become a staple in our warm-weather repertoire. What initially attracted me was its simplicity – a handful of fresh ingredients, minimal prep time, and a promise of maximum flavor. But what truly cemented its place in our hearts was the taste. The bright, citrusy marinade, infused with the zing of garlic and a playful kick of red pepper flakes, transforms ordinary shrimp into something truly extraordinary. Even my pickiest eater, my son, who usually approaches seafood with suspicion, devours these grilled shrimp with gusto, often asking for seconds (and sometimes thirds!). Whether we’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue or just looking for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, this marinated grilled shrimp recipe is our go-to. It’s effortlessly elegant, incredibly flavorful, and consistently delivers that ‘wow’ factor that makes every meal feel special. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved favorite in your home too.

Ingredients: The Symphony of Flavors in Your Marinade

The magic of this grilled shrimp recipe truly lies in the marinade. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a flavor profile that is both vibrant and deeply satisfying. Let’s break down each component and explore why they are essential for achieving the best marinated grilled shrimp.

• 2 lbs Large Shrimp, Peeled and Deveined: The star of the show, of course, is the shrimp itself. Opt for large shrimp as they are substantial enough to hold up well on the grill and offer a satisfying bite. Peeled and deveined shrimp are essential for convenience and ease of eating. You can choose to leave the tails on for a more visually appealing presentation and for easier handling while grilling, but ensure they are deveined. Fresh shrimp are always preferable if available, offering the best texture and flavor. However, frozen shrimp, properly thawed, can also work perfectly well. When selecting frozen shrimp, look for those that are individually quick frozen (IQF) as they tend to retain better quality compared to block-frozen shrimp. Consider the source of your shrimp as well. Sustainably sourced shrimp are not only better for the environment but often offer superior taste and quality. Variations in shrimp size can affect cooking time, so adjust grilling time accordingly. If using smaller shrimp, they will cook faster. For this recipe, large shrimp (around 21-25 count per pound) are ideal for grilling and absorbing the marinade effectively.
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil: Olive oil forms the base of our marinade, acting as a carrier for all the delicious flavors and helping to keep the shrimp moist and succulent during grilling. Extra virgin olive oil, with its rich flavor and fruity notes, is highly recommended for this recipe. Its robust taste complements the other ingredients beautifully and adds a layer of depth to the marinade. If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can use regular olive oil or even another neutral oil like avocado oil. The oil also helps to prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill grates, ensuring they cook evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks. Beyond flavor and preventing sticking, olive oil also contributes to the marinade’s ability to penetrate the shrimp. It helps to break down the surface of the shrimp slightly, allowing the other flavors to infuse more deeply. Don’t skimp on the olive oil; it’s a key component for both flavor and texture.
• 1/4 cup Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is the bright, zesty heart of our marinade. It provides acidity that not only tenderizes the shrimp slightly but also brightens all the other flavors, creating a vibrant and refreshing taste. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is absolutely essential for this recipe. Bottled lemon juice often lacks the same brightness and fresh flavor. The acidity in lemon juice also plays a crucial role in ‘cooking’ the shrimp slightly in the marinade, even before they hit the grill. This helps to firm up the texture and ensures they don’t become mushy when cooked. You can experiment with other citrus juices like lime juice for a slightly different flavor profile, but lemon juice is the classic and arguably the best choice for grilled shrimp. The amount of lemon juice is perfectly balanced in this recipe to provide a noticeable tang without overpowering the other flavors.
• 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is the aromatic backbone of the marinade, adding a pungent and savory depth that complements the citrus and seafood perfectly. Fresh garlic cloves, minced finely, are crucial for the best flavor. Garlic powder simply cannot replicate the fresh, pungent aroma and taste of freshly minced garlic. Minced garlic releases its oils and flavors more readily into the marinade compared to sliced or whole cloves. The three cloves specified in the recipe provide a good balance of garlic flavor without being overwhelming. If you are a garlic enthusiast, you can certainly add an extra clove, but be mindful not to overpower the other flavors. Garlic also has some natural antibacterial properties, which can contribute to food safety, especially when marinating seafood.
• 2 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant herbaceous note and a touch of freshness to the marinade. Its slightly peppery and clean flavor cuts through the richness of the olive oil and complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. Fresh parsley is a must for this recipe. Dried parsley lacks the bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color of fresh parsley. Flat-leaf parsley (also known as Italian parsley) is generally preferred for its stronger flavor compared to curly parsley. Chop the parsley finely to release its flavor fully into the marinade. Parsley not only adds flavor but also a visually appealing element to the finished dish, especially when used as a garnish.
• 1 Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika introduces a subtle smoky sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue to the marinade and grilled shrimp. Smoked paprika is highly recommended for this recipe as it enhances the grilled flavor and adds an extra layer of smoky depth that is incredibly delicious. Sweet paprika can also be used if you prefer a milder flavor. The paprika adds a complexity to the flavor profile that goes beyond just simple citrus and garlic. It adds warmth and depth, making the marinade more nuanced and interesting. Paprika also contributes to the visual appeal of the dish, giving the shrimp a lovely reddish-orange color when grilled.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes provide a gentle hint of heat that balances the richness of the marinade and adds a playful kick to the dish. The amount of red pepper flakes specified is relatively mild, providing just a subtle warmth. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can certainly increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and taste the marinade before adding more. For those who are very sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or even omit the red pepper flakes altogether, but they do add a lovely dimension of flavor to the marinade. The subtle heat from the red pepper flakes enhances the other flavors and prevents the marinade from being overly sweet or one-dimensional.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Salt and pepper are the fundamental seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors in the marinade. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is also highly recommended for its superior aroma and taste compared to pre-ground pepper. Season the marinade generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go. Remember that the salt will not only season the marinade but also penetrate the shrimp, so adequate seasoning is crucial for a flavorful final dish. The amount of salt and pepper will depend on your personal preference, but start with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and adjust from there. Proper seasoning is the key to bringing all the flavors of the marinade together and ensuring the grilled shrimp are perfectly balanced and delicious.

Instructions: Grilling Shrimp to Juicy Perfection

Grilling shrimp is quick and easy, but following these step-by-step instructions will ensure your marinated shrimp are cooked to juicy perfection every time.

1. Make the Marinade: The Flavor Foundation: In a large bowl, embark on creating your flavor masterpiece. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh parsley, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisking is key here – it emulsifies the oil and lemon juice, creating a more cohesive marinade that will better coat the shrimp. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma as you combine these fresh ingredients. This marinade is a symphony of scents, hinting at the deliciousness to come. Ensure all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed in the olive oil and lemon juice base. Taste the marinade at this stage and adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your preference. Remember, the marinade should be flavorful enough to stand on its own, as it will infuse the shrimp with its essence. A well-balanced marinade is the secret to exceptional grilled shrimp.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Infusing with Flavor: Now, gently add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss them lovingly to ensure each shrimp is completely and evenly coated in the flavorful mixture. Use your hands or tongs to gently massage the marinade into the shrimp, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This is crucial to prevent the marinade from drying out and to keep the refrigerator smells out. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. While 30 minutes is the minimum, allowing the shrimp to marinate for up to an hour will result in even more flavorful shrimp. However, do not marinate for longer than an hour, especially with lemon juice, as the acidity can start to break down the shrimp protein and make them mushy. The marinating time is all about striking the perfect balance – enough time for flavor infusion, but not so long that the texture is compromised. During the marinating process, the flavors will penetrate the shrimp, and the lemon juice will gently tenderize them, preparing them for the grill.
3. Prepare the Grill: Heat is Key: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is the ideal temperature for grilling shrimp – hot enough to sear them quickly and create those beautiful grill marks, but not so hot that they burn before cooking through. For a gas grill, this typically means setting the burners to medium-high. For a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing red and covered with a light layer of ash. Clean your grill grates thoroughly before preheating. This will prevent the shrimp from sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks. Lightly oil the grill grates with olive oil or cooking spray. This extra step is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the shrimp once cooked. Properly preheating and preparing your grill is essential for achieving perfectly grilled shrimp.
4. Thread the Shrimp: Ready for the Grill: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, discarding any excess marinade. Skewering the shrimp makes them easier to handle on the grill and prevents them from falling through the grates. You can use metal skewers or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the shrimp close together on the skewers for even cooking and to prevent them from drying out. There are various ways to skewer shrimp – you can thread them straight, or curve them into a “C” shape for a more elegant presentation. Discarding the excess marinade before grilling helps prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensures the shrimp sear properly. However, don’t discard all of it! You can reserve a little marinade to brush over the shrimp while grilling for extra flavor and moisture.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Quick and Careful Cooking: Place the shrimp skewers directly on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque and have beautiful grill marks. Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them and don’t overcook them. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. The key is to grill them just until they are cooked through, which is indicated by their color changing from translucent to opaque pink. Turn the skewers carefully using tongs or a spatula to ensure even cooking on both sides. Listen for the sizzle as the shrimp hit the hot grill grates – that’s the sound of deliciousness in the making! If you reserved some marinade, you can brush it over the shrimp during the last minute of grilling for extra flavor and moisture. Grilling time will vary slightly depending on the size of your shrimp and the heat of your grill, so adjust accordingly. The goal is perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful grilled shrimp – not overcooked, dry, and rubbery shrimp.
6. Serve: Immediate Gratification: Remove the grilled shrimp skewers from the grill immediately and serve hot. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture. Grilled shrimp are best enjoyed hot off the grill when they are at their juiciest and most flavorful. You can serve the shrimp directly on the skewers or slide them off onto a platter or serving dish. The aroma of freshly grilled shrimp is irresistible, so be prepared for your guests to devour them quickly!

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

(Per serving, assuming 4 servings, nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 shrimp (about 4 oz cooked shrimp)
• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams (primarily healthy fats from olive oil)
• Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 200-250 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg (depending on added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
• Fiber: Less than 1 gram
• Sugar: Less than 1 gram

Nutritional Highlights:

• High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, and overall bodily functions.
• Low in Calories and Fat: Grilled shrimp, especially when marinated with olive oil and lemon juice, is a relatively low-calorie and low-fat option, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
• Rich in Selenium: Shrimp is a good source of selenium, an antioxidant that plays a role in thyroid function and immune health.
• Source of Vitamin B12: Shrimp provides vitamin B12, important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains some omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Garlic Benefits: Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Lemon Juice Benefits: Lemon juice is a good source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant and immune booster.

This marinated grilled shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy and nutritious meal option, packed with protein and essential nutrients. Enjoy it guilt-free as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: Quick and Effortless

This recipe is designed for ease and speed, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time (Ingredients & Marinade): 10 minutes
  • This includes the time to peel and devein the shrimp (if not already purchased pre-peeled and deveined).
  • Mincing the garlic, chopping the parsley, and measuring out all the marinade ingredients.
  • Whisking together the marinade in a bowl. This step is quick and straightforward.
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • This is the passive time where the shrimp sit in the marinade and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
  • While the shrimp are marinating, you can prepare your grill, make side dishes, or simply relax.
  • Remember, a minimum of 30 minutes is recommended for flavor infusion, but up to an hour will yield even more flavorful results. Avoid marinating longer than an hour to maintain the best shrimp texture.
• Cooking Time (Grilling): 6 minutes
  • Grilling the shrimp is incredibly fast, taking only 2-3 minutes per side.
  • This quick cooking time is one of the many reasons why grilled shrimp is such a convenient and appealing meal option.
  • The total cooking time will depend slightly on the size of your shrimp and the heat of your grill, but it generally remains within the 6-minute range.
• Total Time (Active & Passive): 46 minutes to 1 hour and 16 minutes

From start to finish, including marinating time, you can have perfectly marinated grilled shrimp on the table in under an hour and a half, and the active hands-on time is minimal, making this a truly efficient and delicious recipe.

How to Serve: Versatile and Delightful

Marinated grilled shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Shrimp Skewers with Dipping Sauce: Serve the grilled shrimp skewers as a standalone appetizer with a zesty dipping sauce like aioli, cocktail sauce, or a spicy chili garlic sauce.
  • Shrimp Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with creamy ricotta cheese, grilled shrimp, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant appetizer.
  • Shrimp Lettuce Wraps: Serve grilled shrimp in crisp lettuce cups with a light slaw and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a refreshing and healthy appetizer.
• As a Main Course:
  • Grilled Shrimp with Rice and Roasted Vegetables: Pair the grilled shrimp with fluffy rice (white, brown, or jasmine) and a medley of roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a complete and balanced meal.
  • Shrimp Tacos or Fajitas: Slice the grilled shrimp and serve them in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded cabbage, and sour cream.
  • Shrimp Pasta Primavera: Toss the grilled shrimp with your favorite pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne) and a vibrant primavera sauce made with seasonal vegetables like peas, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes.
  • Shrimp and Grits: For a Southern-inspired dish, serve the grilled shrimp over creamy grits, topped with a flavorful tomato and herb sauce.
  • Shrimp Salad: Add grilled shrimp to a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and satisfying lunch or light dinner.
• As a Side Dish:
  • Grilled Shrimp with Steak or Chicken: Grilled shrimp makes a fantastic surf and turf addition to grilled steak or chicken, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
  • Grilled Shrimp with Burgers: Elevate your burger night by adding a skewer of grilled shrimp alongside your favorite burgers.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Shrimp Bowls: Create customizable shrimp bowls with a base of quinoa or rice, topped with grilled shrimp, black beans, corn, avocado, salsa, and a cilantro-lime dressing.
  • Shrimp Pizza Topping: Use sliced grilled shrimp as a delicious and unexpected topping for homemade or store-bought pizza.
  • Shrimp and Avocado Toast: Top toasted bread with mashed avocado, grilled shrimp, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a trendy and flavorful brunch or snack.

The possibilities are truly endless! Let your creativity guide you and enjoy these marinated grilled shrimp in whatever way you find most delicious.

Additional Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp: Grilling Guru Secrets

Want to elevate your grilled shrimp game even further? Here are five additional tips to ensure grilling success every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give your shrimp space! Overcrowding the grill pan lowers the temperature and steams the shrimp instead of searing them. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure each shrimp has direct contact with the heat for those beautiful grill marks and even cooking. Proper spacing allows for better airflow and heat distribution, resulting in perfectly grilled shrimp.
2. Pat the Shrimp Dry Before Marinating: Before adding the shrimp to the marinade, gently pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better to the shrimp and ensures they sear properly on the grill. Excess moisture can hinder browning and create steam, preventing those desirable grill marks.
3. Control the Heat: Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling shrimp. If the heat is too high, the shrimp will burn on the outside before cooking through. If the heat is too low, they may become tough and rubbery. Adjust your grill temperature as needed to maintain a consistent medium-high heat throughout the grilling process. Using a grill thermometer can be helpful to ensure accurate temperature control.
4. Use a Grill Basket or Skewers for Small Shrimp: If you are using smaller shrimp, consider using a grill basket or skewers to prevent them from falling through the grill grates. Grill baskets are particularly useful for grilling larger quantities of smaller shrimp. Skewers are great for portion control and easy handling.
5. Rest Briefly Before Serving (Optional): While grilled shrimp are best served immediately, allowing them to rest for a minute or two off the grill can help redistribute their juices and make them even more tender. This is especially helpful if you are grilling a large batch of shrimp. Cover them loosely with foil while they rest to keep them warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Your Shrimp Grilling Queries Answered

Got questions about grilling shrimp? We’ve got answers! Here are five frequently asked questions to help you master the art of marinated grilled shrimp:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Frozen shrimp, when properly thawed, work perfectly well for grilling. Thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly thaw them in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed. Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed before marinating. Pat them dry after thawing to remove excess moisture.

Q2: How long should I marinate the shrimp?

A: Marinate the shrimp for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 1 hour for optimal flavor infusion. Marinating for longer than an hour, especially with acidic marinades like this lemon-based one, can make the shrimp texture mushy. 30 minutes to 1 hour is the sweet spot for flavor and texture.

Q3: Can I grill the shrimp without skewers?

A: Yes, you can grill shrimp without skewers, but it can be a bit trickier, especially with smaller shrimp. If grilling directly on the grates, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Use tongs to carefully flip each shrimp individually. Grilling on skewers is generally recommended for easier handling and preventing shrimp from falling through the grates.

Q4: How do I know when the shrimp are done grilling?

A: Shrimp cook very quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. The flesh should be firm to the touch, not translucent or mushy. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough. Grill for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, but rely on visual cues and texture rather than just time.

Q5: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saving tip if you are meal prepping or planning a party. Just whisk the marinade again before adding the shrimp to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.

Enjoy your perfectly marinated and grilled shrimp! This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite, bringing the vibrant flavors of summer to your table any time of year.

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