These grilled lemon garlic shrimp are packed with flavor and super easy to make! Just toss shrimp with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of seasoning, then grill them to perfection.
Trust me, the smell is enough to make anyone hungry. I like to serve these shrimp on top of some rice or in a salad—so good! Plus, they cook in just minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here! If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work great too. Just thaw them properly in the fridge overnight. If shrimp aren’t your thing, you can use firm fish like salmon or chicken pieces instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that perfect flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder. However, I recommend using fresh when possible, as it has a bolder taste.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil is a great substitute, or you could use melted butter for a richer flavor.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is best, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will do. I love to zest the lemon too for an extra punch of freshness. Lime juice can also replace lemon juice for a different twist!
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smoky flavor, but you could swap it for regular paprika or cayenne if you like a little heat!
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky since they cook so quickly. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by marinating your shrimp for 15-30 minutes. The acid from the lemon helps tenderize the shrimp.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps to sear them quickly, and they won’t stick.
- If using skewers, soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread shrimp on skewers to make turning easier.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become rubbery.
Following these tips will ensure your shrimp are juicy and delicious every time!
Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon halves or wedges, for serving
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep and marinating time, plus about 6 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll be enjoying this tasty meal in about 20-25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to mix the ingredients together, creating a flavorful marinade for the shrimp.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the delicious flavors to soak into the shrimp.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop (just heat it up a little oil to prevent sticking).
4. Skewer the Shrimp (if desired):
If you’d like, thread the marinated shrimp onto wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill. This step is optional, but makes flipping easier!
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp on the grill (or grill pan) and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook—shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if left too long!
6. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon halves or wedges on the side for squeezing.
Enjoy these succulent, tangy grilled shrimp as a delicious main dish, over rice, or as a flavorful addition to salads or tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker option.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of smoked paprika or omit it altogether. On the other hand, if you want some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, being cautious not to overcook them again.
What Can I Serve With Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or in tacos with your favorite toppings for a delicious meal!