Grilled Shrimp Garlic Lemon

Grilled shrimp with garlic and lemon is the ultimate warm weather dish that bursts with fresh flavor and comes together easily for effortless al fresco dinners. The smoky char from the grill combined with zesty citrus and aromatic garlic brings your favorite seafood to life in a way that feels both special and delightfully simple.

This is the dish I always turn to for backyard gatherings or when I want something impressive but low effort. The first time I made it for friends, the skewers vanished before I even sat down.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp cook quickly and stay perfectly juicy If possible buy wild caught for best flavor
• Olive oil: Helps the marinade coat and tenderize the shrimp Choose extra virgin for fruitier depth
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic gives pungency and warmth Look for firm cloves with tight skin
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the freshest zesty tang Avoid bottled juice if you can
• Lemon zest: The zest carries intense citrus oils for brighter aroma Use a microplane for fine grating
• Paprika: Adds smoky color and gentle heat Choose sweet or smoked based on your flavor preference
• Salt and pepper: Seasons every bite Enhance the natural sweetness of shrimp Use sea salt when available
• Fresh parsley: The finishing touch for color and herbal freshness Go for flat leaf parsley with vivid green stems
• Lemon wedges: For serving These offer extra brightness and are perfect for squeezing just before eating

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the Marinade:

In a large bowl whisk together olive oil minced garlic lemon juice lemon zest paprika salt and pepper Mix until fully blended so the flavors infuse the oil

Coat the Shrimp:

Add the prepared shrimp to the bowl and toss until every piece is evenly coated Press the shrimp gently into the marinade so it soaks up all the goodness

Chill and Marinate:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes This allows the shrimp to absorb flavor and stay tender through grilling

Heat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium high Turn the heat on early to make sure it is hot and ready for the shrimp which cook quickly If you plan to use wooden skewers be sure to soak them in water ahead so they do not burn on the grill

Thread onto Skewers:

Thread each shrimp onto skewers leaving a tiny gap between each piece This ensures even cooking and easy flipping while grilling

Grill the Shrimp:

Place the skewers on the preheated grill Cook for two to three minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and just opaque Watch closely because shrimp cook very quickly and can go from juicy to rubbery in seconds

Rest and Serve:

Transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving platter Let them rest for a minute so the juices settle which locks in moisture

Add Final Touches:

Sprinkle with chopped parsley for brightness and garnish with lemon wedges Serve immediately to enjoy at their peak

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What I love most is how the lemon zest subtly perfumes the whole dish Even my young nieces love this and remember it as our family’s “summer shrimp”

Storage Tips

Cool leftover shrimp completely before placing in an airtight container Store in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently so the shrimp stay tender or enjoy cold tossed into salads or grain bowls

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh shrimp frozen works just make sure to thaw and dry very well Cajun seasoning makes a good stand in for paprika and gives a little extra kick Use cilantro instead of parsley for a fresh herbal twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these shrimp skewers alongside a peppery arugula salad grilled corn or over a bed of herby rice For a party offer them as an appetizer with a garlicky aioli or lemony yogurt dip

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A Bit of History

Grilling seafood is an age old tradition from Mediterranean coasts to backyard barbecues Grilled shrimp especially with lemon and garlic echoes those sunsoaked beach feasts that are all about simple ingredients and big flavor

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long should shrimp marinate before grilling?

Marinate shrimp for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and tenderness.

→ What's the best way to keep shrimp tender on the grill?

Avoid overcooking shrimp by grilling only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for grilling?

Yes, but thaw them fully and pat dry before marinating for optimal texture and seasoning.

→ What type of skewers work best for grilled shrimp?

Both wooden and metal skewers work well; soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

→ Are there good side dishes for grilled shrimp?

Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or light rice pilaf pair deliciously with grilled shrimp and citrus flavors.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Try adding smoked paprika, a pinch of chili flakes, or extra lemon zest to the marinade.