Description
Sizzling grilled shrimp becomes the star of my summer dinner table, bringing together zesty lemon, garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs that make taste buds dance. These plump, perfectly charred seafood gems turn an ordinary meal into something special with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp (16–20 count, peeled and deveined, tails on optional)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt
- Pepper
Supporting Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Optional: metal or soaked wooden skewers
Instructions
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Add 1½ pounds of large shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece gets completely coated. Refrigerate for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Prepare your grill or grill pan, heating it to 400°F (medium-high). Lightly brush grates with additional olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Optional: Slide 4-5 shrimp onto each metal or pre-soaked wooden skewer, keeping them close but not overcrowded.
- Place shrimp directly on hot grates or skewered shrimp across the grill surface. Cook for 2 minutes on the first side.
- Carefully flip shrimp, grilling an additional 1-2 minutes until they turn completely opaque and develop light char marks.
- Remove shrimp from heat immediately when they transform from translucent gray to solid pink. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.
- Transfer grilled shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh lemon zest and chopped herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve hot alongside your favorite accompaniments like rice, mixed greens, or crusty bread.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and easiest grilling, which helps prevent overcooking.
- Marinate for no longer than 30 minutes, as the acid in lemon juice can start to break down the shrimp’s delicate proteins.
- For a low-carb option, serve the grilled shrimp over zucchini noodles or a crisp green salad instead of rice or pasta.
- Prep Time: 15-30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 minutes
- Category: Shrimp
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg