Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp Recipe

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until all the ingredients are well combined. This herb-infused marinade will infuse the shrimp with an incredible depth of flavor as it grills.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the shrimp marinate in the fridge for at least 15-30 minutes. The garlic and herbs will have time to infuse the shrimp, giving them incredible flavor. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acid from the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp, making them tough.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they’re glowing red with a light coating of ash. If you’re using a gas grill, set it to medium-high and allow it to heat for 5-10 minutes. If you’re grilling indoors with a grill pan, heat the pan over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Skewer the Shrimp (Optional)

If you prefer to skewer your shrimp for easy grilling, thread the marinated shrimp onto metal or wooden skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Once the grill is hot, place the shrimp directly on the grill grates. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn a lovely pink color and are opaque in the center. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.

If you’re using a grill pan, cook the shrimp in batches, turning them once they develop a nice char on the first side.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the shrimp are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a few extra lemon wedges on the side for added zest. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil over the shrimp for an added richness.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp:

1. Quick and Easy: One of the best things about shrimp is how fast it cooks. With just a quick marinade and a few minutes on the grill, you can have a delicious seafood dish ready in under 30 minutes.
2. Bold, Fresh Flavors: The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon creates a light yet flavorful marinade that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The slight char from the grill adds an extra layer of smokiness that elevates the taste.
3. Healthy and Low in Calories: Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and is low in calories, making this dish a healthy option. Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium.
4. Versatile: Grilled garlic herb shrimp can be served in so many different ways. Pair it with a fresh salad, serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa, or even toss it into pasta. The possibilities are endless!
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a special celebration, this recipe is sure to impress. The flavors are light yet sophisticated, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual gatherings and more elegant meals.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Shrimp:

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them can make them tough and rubbery. Remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
2. Use Fresh Shrimp: While frozen shrimp are convenient, fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. If you do use frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
3. Grill on High Heat: To get that perfect char and crispy exterior, make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This ensures the shrimp cook quickly and evenly.
4. Add Extra Flavor: For an added touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan over the grilled shrimp or serve them with a flavorful dipping sauce, such as a tangy lemon aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo.
5. Experiment with Herbs: While parsley and basil are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or mint for unique flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: Serve the shrimp with a refreshing side salad, such as a Mediterranean salad with cucumber, feta, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: The shrimp pairs beautifully with a simple rice pilaf, lemon rice, or quinoa for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Tacos or Wraps: Add grilled shrimp to soft tacos or wraps for a fresh, light meal. Top with shredded lettuce, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

Conclusion:

This Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp recipe is the ultimate go-to when you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to delight. With a handful of simple ingredients and a grill, you can create a delicious seafood feast that’s packed with fresh, bold flavors. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the taste of perfectly grilled shrimp that’s bursting with garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon zest!