Looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution? Try our best marinated grilled shrimp recipe, made with homemade marinade and ready in no time, perfect for a family favorite easy dinner, Save for later

Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Introduction

Imagine the perfect summer evening, with the sun setting over the horizon, and the aroma of marinated grilled shrimp wafting through the air. This dish is not only a staple of warm weather gatherings, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. The best part? You can create this culinary masterpiece using everyday ingredients, making it accessible to anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe for the best marinated grilled shrimp is sure to impress your friends and family with its balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs creates a marinade that is both flavorful and easy to make, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Ease of preparation: Marinating the shrimp is as simple as mixing the ingredients together and letting them sit, making this a low-maintenance recipe perfect for busy evenings.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared with much more fuss, making it perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The key to this recipe lies in the marinade, which consists of olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. For practical substitutions, you can use lime juice instead of lemon, or basil instead of parsley, depending on your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing the marinade. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is well combined and the parsley is finely chopped.
Step 2: Place the shrimp in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, making sure they are all coated. If using a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap. If using a bag, seal it, removing as much air as possible. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the grill and serve immediately. You can serve them as is, or add them to your favorite dishes like salads, pasta, or as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.

Handy Tips

Make sure to not overmarinate the shrimp, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to cook the shrimp, making them tough.
Keep an eye on the shrimp while they’re grilling, as the cooking time can vary depending on the size of the shrimp and the heat of your grill.
Don’t press down on the shrimp with your spatula while they’re grilling, as this can make them dense and lose their juices.

Heat Control

For the best results, you want to grill the shrimp over medium-high heat. This will give them a nice sear on the outside while cooking them through. The ideal temperature is between 400°F and 450°F. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and are opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Make sure to check them frequently to avoid overcooking.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the quick sear the shrimp get on the grill. To achieve this, make sure the grill is hot before adding the shrimp, and don’t move them until they’re ready to be flipped. This initial sear will give the shrimp a nice crust on the outside, while keeping them tender and juicy on the inside.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For easier flipping, use a pair of tongs or a spatula with a non-stick surface.
To add extra flavor, you can brush the shrimp with melted butter or additional marinade during the last minute of grilling.
Cleanup can be made easier by lining the grill grates with foil before cooking, though this is optional and may affect the sear.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover grilled shrimp, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
For reheating, place the shrimp in a pan over low heat with a bit of oil or butter until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat.
The best containers for storing leftovers are glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give the gift of delicious food, consider packaging the marinated shrimp in a decorative jar or container before grilling. Once grilled, the shrimp can be served in small, decorative bowls or skewers, perfect for a gift basket or as part of a gourmet gift box. Add some garnishes like lemon wedges, parsley, or chili flakes, and include a card with the recipe and cooking instructions.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding some cumin for a smoky flavor, or paprika for a bit of smokiness and depth.
🌟 Creative toppings: Serve the shrimp with a variety of toppings like diced mango, avocado salsa, or a tangy slaw made with red cabbage and carrots.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: For a Mediterranean twist, use oregano instead of parsley, and add some feta cheese crumbles on top of the shrimp before serving.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the shrimp become tough, it could be due to overcooking or overmarinating. Make sure to check the shrimp frequently while they’re grilling, and don’t marinate them for more than 2 hours.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Over/undercooking signs: Shrimp are undercooked if they’re still translucent and soft to the touch. They’re overcooked if they’re tough and rubbery. Aim for a pink color and a firm texture that’s still slightly yielding to the touch.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the marinated shrimp before grilling. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just adjust the marinade ingredients accordingly and make sure you have enough grill space to cook all the shrimp at once.

Conclusion

This recipe for the best marinated grilled shrimp is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their grilling repertoire. With its simple yet flavorful marinade and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and toppings to make the dish your own, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious with minimal effort. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, and with the tips and variations provided, you’ll be well on your way to creating your own signature grilled shrimp dish.

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