Grilled Shrimp with Lemon and Garlic
Grilled Shrimp with Lemon and Garlic is a quick and flavorful dish with a zesty, aromatic marinade that highlights the natural sweetness of the shrimp. It’s perfect for an appetizer, main dish, or to add to salads and pastas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation if desired)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat well. Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes (no longer, as the lemon juice can start “cooking” the shrimp).
Step 2: Grill the Shrimp
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan.
- Grill the Shrimp: Thread the shrimp onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-20 minutes before grilling). Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and have nice grill marks.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Plate the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the skewers (if using) and place them on a serving platter.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh basil, cilantro, or chives.
- Serve with Sides: These shrimp are delicious with rice, pasta, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad.
This Grilled Shrimp with Lemon and Garlic is simple, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!