Garlic Grilled Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing seafood dish, look no further than this Garlic Grilled Shrimp recipe. Juicy, tender shrimp are marinated in a zesty garlic and lemon mixture, then grilled to perfection, creating a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or even a special occasion. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress anyone. Plus, it’s naturally light and packed with protein, making it a fantastic option for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Garlic Grilled Shrimp recipe stands out because it combines simplicity and bold flavors in every bite. The marinade’s olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic work together to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp without overpowering it. Grilling adds a smoky char that elevates the dish, making it perfect to pair with fresh salads, rice, or crusty bread. Plus, it cooks in just minutes, which means you can enjoy a gourmet-quality seafood meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just starting to experiment with shrimp, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds raw jumbo shrimp, thawed, peeled, and deveined, leaving tails on
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed works best)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

How To Make Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by making sure your shrimp are properly thawed if frozen. Peel and devein them, leaving the tails on for easy handling and an attractive presentation. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. This simple marinade infuses the shrimp with bright and savory flavors.

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until all are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate and let the shrimp marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. Avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp and change their texture.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375-400°F (190-204°C). If you’re using a grill pan indoors, heat it over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Skewer the Shrimp

Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing once near the tail and once near the head to keep them secure. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 6: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery when cooked too long.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Expert Tips

• Use jumbo shrimp for the best texture and presentation, but medium or large shrimp will also work well.
• Don’t skip the parsley—it adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the garlic and lemon beautifully.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the shrimp on a grill pan or even broil them in the oven.
• Always preheat your grill or pan to ensure the shrimp cook evenly and get a nice sear.
• Keep an eye on the shrimp while grilling—they cook very quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.
• For easy cleanup, line your grill grates or pan with aluminum foil and poke small holes for smoke to escape.
• Pair this shrimp with a light side like quinoa salad, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy twist.
• Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro, basil, or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Butter Garlic: After grilling, toss the shrimp in melted garlic butter for an extra rich finish.
• Citrus Variations: Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.
• Skewer Alternatives: If you prefer not to use skewers, you can grill the shrimp directly on the grill or cook them in a grill basket.
• Marinade Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a subtle sweetness.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover grilled shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly until heated through. Be careful not to overcook during reheating, as shrimp can become tough. Leftover shrimp are also great added cold to salads, pasta dishes, or wraps.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before marinating. To thaw, place frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure the marinade sticks well.

What can I serve with garlic grilled shrimp?

Garlic grilled shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as steamed rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or crusty bread. For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a simple cucumber tomato salad.

Is it necessary to leave the tails on shrimp?

Leaving the tails on helps hold the shrimp together during grilling and adds a nice presentation touch. However, it’s a matter of personal preference—you can remove the tails if you prefer, especially if serving shrimp in salads or wraps.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the shrimp in the oven. For broiling, place the shrimp on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes per side, watching closely to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a simple yet spectacular dish that brings together fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and effortless cooking techniques. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe guarantees a delicious result that’s both satisfying and elegant. With a quick marinade, minimal prep, and a few minutes on the grill, you can enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp any day of the week. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easily it transforms ordinary shrimp into a flavorful and memorable meal!