Name: Grilled Shrimp Recipe: Juicy and Smoky
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp red pepper; Optional: Lemon wedges; Suggested Pairings: Veggies (rice)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Grilled Shrimp is a juicy, smoky seafood dish, perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknights, or elegant appetizers. This simple recipe, featuring a zesty garlic-lemon marinade and high-heat sear, delivers tender texture with charred flavor. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with lemon wedges and parsley, this Grilled Shrimp offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a straightforward grill method with pantry staples, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a go-to protein that brings bright, crowd-pleasing charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined (tails on)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Serving:

Optional: Lemon wedges, fresh parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf
Suggested Pairings: White wine, iced tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Grill or grill pan, metal/wooden skewers

Step-by-Step Process

Prep Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels—this ensures crisp sear and marinade adhesion. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Make Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. The acid tenderizes; oil carries flavor.
Marinate Shrimp: Add shrimp to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate 15–30 minutes—do not exceed 30 minutes or acid cooks shrimp. Reserve 1 tbsp marinade for basting.
Preheat Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high (400°F). Brush grates with oil—this prevents sticking.
Skewer Shrimp: Thread 4–5 shrimp per skewer, piercing through tail and head for even cooking. This makes flipping easy and creates a presentation.
Grill to Pink: Place skewers on a hot grill. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink, opaque, and lightly charred. Baste with reserved marinade when flipping. Total cook time 4–6 minutes—overcooking toughens shrimp.
Check Doneness: Shrimp are done when they form a “C” shape (curled); “O” means overcooked. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Rest and Garnish: Remove from grill. Rest 2 minutes—this redistributes juices. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve: Slide shrimp off skewers or serve on them. Arrange on a white ceramic platter with lemon wedges.

Tips for Better Grilled Shrimp

Pat dry before marinating—crisp char
Marinate 15–30 min only—prevents mushiness
Oil grill grates—prevents sticking
Cook to “C” shape—juicy texture
Present on a white ceramic platter to showcase the pink curl
Make the marinade the night before
Freeze marinated shrimp up to 1 month
Enhance aesthetic: fan lemon slices

Variations and Customization

Garlic Butter Shrimp: Baste with melted butter + garlic.
Cajun Shrimp: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika.
Honey Lime Shrimp: Add 1 tbsp honey to the marinade.
Mediterranean: Add oregano, feta post-grill.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free.
Shrimp Kabobs: Alternate with bell peppers, onions.
Oven-Broiled: Broil 6 inches from the heat 2–3 min per side.
Spicy Chipotle: Blend chipotle in adobo into the marinade.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet 1–2 minutes—avoid microwaving.
Do not freeze cooked shrimp—texture suffers.
Serve warm or room temperature.
Pair with white wine or iced tea to complement the zest.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a bright, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings:

Calories: 200 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Sodium: 420mg
Total Carbohydrates: 3g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 20g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 15% Daily Value
Calcium: 8% Daily Value
Iron: 4% Daily Value

Note: Values with olive oil (Cajun or kabob versions vary slightly). High in protein.

Conclusion

This Grilled Shrimp recipe delivers juicy, smoky perfection with zesty char in every bite. It transforms seafood into a 10-minute masterpiece. Its quick-marinade method and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The tender curl and lemon brightness delight every forkful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its simple, crowd-pleasing charm.