Description
These Garlic Grilled Shrimp are juicy, tender, and packed with bold garlic, lemon, and herb flavor. Ready in just minutes, they’re perfect for summer grilling, easy weeknight dinners, appetizers, or serving over rice and salad.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl to ensure the marinade sticks properly.
- Make the marinade: Add olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the shrimp in the bowl.
- Coat the shrimp: Toss the shrimp gently until they are evenly coated with the marinade ingredients.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes, but avoid marinating longer to prevent the lemon juice from affecting the shrimp texture.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Optional skewer preparation: Thread the shrimp onto skewers if desired, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand.
- Grill the shrimp: Cook shrimp on the grill for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and develop light char marks.
- Finish and serve: Remove grilled shrimp from the heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for easier grilling and better bite.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Shrimp cook very quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
- Add red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the marinade if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Serve grilled shrimp alongside grilled vegetables, rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
