How to Make Garlic Grilled Shrimp
Grilling shrimp is a quick and easy process that results in a flavorful dish with a beautiful charred exterior. Follow these steps for the best grilled shrimp experience.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse and pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before marinating.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. This marinade will infuse the shrimp with bold flavors while keeping them tender.
Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a shallow dish or a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, tossing to coat evenly. Let them marinate for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator, but avoid marinating for too long, as the acid in the lemon juice can start breaking down the shrimp’s texture.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent the shrimp from sticking. You can also use a grill pan if cooking indoors.
Step 5: Grill the Shrimp
Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy flipping or place them directly on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery when overdone.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the shrimp from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy them on their own, over rice, in tacos, or as a delicious addition to salads and pasta.
How Long to Grill Shrimp
Grilling shrimp is a quick process, and the cooking time depends on the size of the shrimp and the grill temperature. Overcooking can make shrimp tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them. Here’s a general guideline:
- Small Shrimp (51-60 count per pound) – Grill for about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Medium Shrimp (41-50 count per pound) – Grill for 2 minutes per side.
- Large Shrimp (31-40 count per pound) – Grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Jumbo Shrimp (16-20 count per pound) – Grill for 3-4 minutes per side.
Shrimp are ready when they turn opaque, pink, and slightly curled into a “C” shape. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp that curl into a tight “O” shape can be tough and chewy.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp
If you have leftovers, you can store them easily and enjoy them later in different dishes. Here’s the best way to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerator – Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or eat them cold in salads.
- Freezer – Freeze grilled shrimp in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or butter to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.
Tips for the Best Garlic Grilled Shrimp
Follow these expert tips to ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly juicy and flavorful every time:
- Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp – Fresh shrimp have the best texture, but frozen shrimp work well if properly thawed.
- Pat Shrimp Dry Before Marinating – Removing excess moisture helps the marinade stick better and enhances the char on the grill.
- Soak Wooden Skewers – If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Use a Grill Basket – For smaller shrimp, a grill basket helps prevent them from falling through the grates.
- Don’t Over-Marinate – Shrimp only need 15-30 minutes in the marinade. Any longer, and the acid in the lemon juice may start breaking down the shrimp.
- Experiment with Flavors – Try adding honey for a touch of sweetness, or swap out the smoked paprika for Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
This garlic grilled shrimp is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served on skewers, in tacos, or over pasta, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Save this recipe for your next barbecue or quick dinner idea!
