Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Sizzling Grilled Shrimp Recipe: Perfect Summer BBQ Delight

Succulent grilled shrimp revolutionizes an ordinary meal into a remarkable culinary experience.

These tender marine delicacies absorb smoky flavors that dance across your palate with incredible intensity.

Lightweight yet protein-packed, they represent a smart choice for health-conscious food lovers seeking delectable nutrition.

Their delicate texture becomes magnificently enhanced through precise grilling techniques that seal in robust maritime essence.

Summer gatherings or intimate dinners find instant elevation when these oceanic gems hit the grill.

The magic lies in minimal seasoning that allows natural maritime sweetness to shine through dramatically.

Each morsel promises a sensational journey of taste and texture that will leave you craving more.

Grilled Shrimp: Juicy, Tender, and Flavorful

  • Savor Quick Seafood Sensation: This grilled shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes of active cooking time, perfect for busy home chefs craving a delicious protein-packed meal.
  • Elevate Marinading Magic: The olive oil, garlic, and ginger marinade infuses intense aromatic flavors into the shrimp, tenderizing the seafood while creating a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired profile that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dish.
  • Master Foolproof Grilling Technique: Cooking shrimp on skewers ensures even heat distribution, prevents losing delicate pieces through grill grates, and guarantees a beautiful char with juicy, succulent texture that looks and tastes professionally prepared.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse Protein: Packed with 32 grams of protein and loaded with healthy unsaturated fats, this recipe offers a lean, low-carb meal option that supports muscle building and provides satisfying nutrition without compromising taste.

What You Need to Grill Perfect Shrimp

Main Protein:
  • Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp work best with sweet and tender meat, preferably deveined for easy eating.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and prevents shrimp from sticking to grill.
  • Garlic: Adds robust, aromatic flavor to the shrimp.
  • Ginger: Provides a subtle, spicy kick and enhances overall marinade complexity.
  • Black Pepper: Offers a warm, sharp seasoning that complements seafood.
Grilling and Serving Ingredients:
  • Wooden Skewers: Useful for easy grilling and presentation of shrimp.
  • Lime Slices: Adds bright, citrusy flavor and can be grilled alongside shrimp.
  • Lime Wedges: Fresh garnish for squeezing over grilled shrimp.
  • Cilantro: Provides fresh, herbal finishing touch to the dish.

How to Grill Shrimp That Will Impress Everyone

Step 1: Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. This helps keep the skewers from catching fire on the hot grill.

Step 2: Create Zesty Marinade

In a small bowl, blend:
  • Olive oil
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh grated ginger
  • Cracked black pepper

Use an immersion blender to create a smooth, fragrant marinade that will infuse the shrimp with incredible flavor.

Step 3: Marinate Shrimp

Place shrimp in a shallow bowl and pour the marinade over them. Gently stir to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, giving the shrimp a quick fold halfway through to distribute the marinade completely.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated shrimp onto the prepared skewers. Optional: Alternate with folded lime slices for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill shrimp for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful char and turn opaque throughout.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove shrimp from the grill and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra pop of citrus flavor.

Tips for the Best Grilled Shrimp

  • Prevent Wooden Skewer Burning: Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to stop them from catching fire.
  • Maximize Marinade Flavor: Let shrimp marinate for the full 2-3 hours to ensure deep, rich flavor penetration throughout the seafood.
  • Ensure Even Cooking: Thread shrimp in a single direction on skewers, keeping them close but not overcrowded for consistent heat distribution.
  • Check Doneness Perfectly: Watch for opaque, slightly charred exterior and a firm texture – overcooking makes shrimp tough and rubbery.
  • Boost Freshness Factor: Squeeze fresh lime wedges right before serving to brighten the dish and add a zesty citrus punch.

How to Keep Your Grilled Shrimp Fresh for Later

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Place in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
  • Reheating: Gently warm shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out. Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on 50% power for 30-45 seconds, checking to avoid overcooking. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and taste.

Pairings That Bring Out the Best in Grilled Shrimp

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Complement the zesty grilled shrimp with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, whose bright acidity cuts through the richness and highlights the seafood's delicate flavors.
  • Serve with Cooling Cucumber Salad: Balance the charred shrimp's warmth with a refreshing cucumber salad dressed in yogurt and mint, creating a light and tangy side that enhances the dish's freshness.
  • Match with Coconut Rice: Create a tropical backdrop for the shrimp by serving fragrant coconut rice, which echoes the marinade's ginger and garlic notes while providing a smooth, creamy counterpoint to the grilled protein.
  • Enjoy with Craft Wheat Beer: Select a light, citrusy wheat beer that mirrors the lime and cilantro elements, offering a crisp and effervescent drink that cleanses the palate between bites.

Fun Twists on Grilled Shrimp

  • Spicy Citrus Shrimp: Add red chili flakes and orange zest to the marinade for a zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Skewers: Replace black pepper with dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a Mediterranean-inspired seasoning that brings fresh herbal notes.
  • Coconut Curry Grilled Shrimp: Mix in coconut milk and mild curry powder to create a creamy, aromatic marinade that transforms the traditional recipe with tropical warmth.
  • Asian-Style Sesame Shrimp: Incorporate soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions into the marinade for an umami-rich version that delivers bold, authentic Asian flavors.
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Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Grilled Shrimp Recipe


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4.7 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent grilled shrimp deliver Mediterranean coastal charm with zesty lemon and herb notes. Perfectly charred and seasoned, this simple dish brings seaside flavors directly to your plate.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) raw extra jumbo shrimp (1620 per pound), peeled and deveined

Herbs and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 2 large garlic cloves, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon minced jalapeño

Liquid and Garnish:

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • Thin slices of fresh lime (if placing shrimp on skewers)
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish
  • Wedges of fresh lime for squeezing over top of grilled shrimp

Instructions

  1. Immerse wooden skewers in cold water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  2. In a mixing vessel, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, minced fresh garlic, grated ginger root, and freshly cracked black pepper until ingredients form a smooth, fragrant marinade.
  3. Transfer raw shrimp into a non-reactive container, pour marinade over them, and gently massage to ensure complete coating.
  4. Seal container with lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, carefully turning shrimp midway through marination to distribute flavors evenly.
  5. While shrimp marinates, prepare grill by heating to medium-high temperature (375-400°F or 190-204°C) and lightly brushing grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove shrimp from refrigerator and carefully thread onto pre-soaked wooden or metal skewers, spacing evenly and optionally interspersing with thin lime slices for additional zest.
  7. Place skewered shrimp on preheated grill, cooking approximately 2-3 minutes per side until edges turn golden brown and centers become opaque white.
  8. Remove from heat when internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves, and serve immediately with additional lime wedges for squeezing.

Notes

  • Wooden skewers need a water bath before grilling to prevent burning and ensure safe cooking.
  • Blend olive oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper into a silky marinade that infuses deep flavor into each shrimp.
  • Marinating transforms ordinary shrimp into a zesty, aromatic dish by allowing ingredients to penetrate deeply for 2-3 hours.
  • Strategic skewering creates beautiful presentation, with optional lime slices adding bright citrus notes between succulent shrimp.
  • High-heat grilling develops gorgeous char marks while keeping shrimp tender and perfectly cooked in just minutes.
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges provide a final burst of color and tangy brightness to elevate the entire dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 440 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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