10 Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp That Tastes Restaurant Worthy

I recently stumbled upon a recipe that has completely changed my grilling skills: zesty lemon garlic grilled shrimp that taste like they’re straight from a high-quality restaurant. Picture juicy shrimp, marinated in a fresh mix of lemon, garlic, and a hint of red pepper, then perfectly grilled. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of summer and enhances any meal. Are you ready to discover the perfect marinade and grilling secrets?

The Secret to Perfectly Grilled Shrimp

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the fresh, tangy flavor of lemon with the savory depth of garlic, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of shrimp. This recipe is ideal for a summer barbecue or a quick weekday dinner, offering a burst of flavor with minimal preparation time.

Grilling shrimp is a straightforward process that highlights their natural taste, and when done correctly, results in a juicy, flavorful seafood experience. The key to achieving perfectly grilled shrimp lies in the marinade and precise cooking time to guarantee they remain tender and succulent.

The secret to making this dish exceptional is in the marinade, which infuses the shrimp with a punchy blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of spice. The acidity of the lemon not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the shrimp, while the garlic provides a robust taste that enhances the overall dish.

Additionally, grilling at the right temperature prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery or overcooked. This recipe will guide you through the steps required to achieve the perfect Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp, guaranteeing a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade, tossing them to make sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the shrimp.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Thread the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the marinade and thread them onto skewers, if desired. Discard any remaining marinade.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have a slight char. Be careful not to overcook them.
6. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.

Extra Tips: When grilling shrimp, keep a close eye on them, as they cook quickly and can easily become overdone. Use a grill basket if you’re concerned about shrimp falling through the grates.

For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of soy sauce to the marinade. Remember, the quality of your shrimp can greatly influence the final dish, so opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp if possible.

Choosing the Best Shrimp for Grilling

For a delightful and invigorating seafood dish, Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp offers a burst of flavor with every bite. This dish combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the savory essence of garlic, all accentuated by a smoky grill char. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a light Friday night dinner, this dish is both simple to prepare and impressive to serve.

The key to success lies in choosing fresh, high-quality shrimp that will hold up well on the grill, guaranteeing they remain juicy and flavorful. When selecting shrimp, opt for large or jumbo sizes, as they’re easier to grill and maintain a succulent texture. Fresh shrimp, preferably wild-caught, will offer the best flavor, but if unavailable, high-quality frozen shrimp can be a good alternative.

Be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling. With the right shrimp and a little preparation, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Mix well to guarantee all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, verify the coals are ashy and evenly distributed. For gas grills, preheat with the lid closed for about 10 minutes.
4. Skewer the Shrimp: Once marinated, thread the shrimp onto skewers, ensuring they’re evenly spaced and not tightly packed. This allows for even cooking.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque with a slight char. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
6. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and plate immediately. Garnish with additional lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot as an appetizer or a main dish alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Extra Tips:

When grilling shrimp, it’s essential to monitor them closely, as they cook very quickly. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and lose their natural sweetness.

If you’re using frozen shrimp, guarantee they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture, which can dilute the marinade and affect the grilling process. Additionally, feel free to experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.

Enjoy your Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp with a chilled glass of white wine for the perfect pairing.

Preparing Your Grill for Optimal Flavor

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful and flavorful dish that perfectly combines the tangy zest of lemon with the robust aroma of garlic. This dish is ideal for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a simple yet sophisticated meal.

Preparing the shrimp with a marinade infused with lemon, garlic, and a touch of spice guarantees that every bite is packed with flavor. When grilled to perfection, these shrimp are juicy, succulent, and bursting with a harmonious blend of tastes that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

To achieve the best flavor, it’s vital to prepare your grill properly. A clean grill guarantees that the shrimp won’t stick, and the high heat helps to sear them quickly, locking in the marinade’s flavors. Using high-quality shrimp and allowing them to marinate for at least 30 minutes will enhance the overall taste.

Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving that perfect char without overcooking the shrimp.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to guarantee all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl, guaranteeing they’re well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a charcoal grill, guarantee the coals are evenly distributed and there are no open flames. For a gas grill, preheat with the lid closed for about 10 minutes.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp for even cooking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque with a slight char.
5. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips:

When grilling shrimp, it’s important not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them, as shrimp cook quickly and are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the marinade or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Marinating Your Shrimp With Lemon and Garlic

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh, vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of shrimp. This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also offers a burst of flavor that’s bound to impress your family and friends. The marinade is the key to infusing the shrimp with its characteristic zesty and garlicky taste, making it a perfect choice for a summer barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner.

To start, the shrimp are marinated in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and a hint of herbs to enhance the taste. The acidity of the lemon tenderizes the shrimp while imparting a revitalizing citrus note, and the garlic adds depth to the flavor profile. This marinade not only enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors but also keeps them juicy and tender when grilled.

After marinating, the shrimp are grilled to perfection, providing a light char that adds a smoky dimension to this already delicious dish.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp (serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, making sure each shrimp is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are at an even temperature before proceeding.
4. Thread the Shrimp onto Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, piercing through the head and tail to secure them.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the grill, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough if left on the grill for too long.
6. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, select fresh shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild scent. If fresh shrimp are unavailable, frozen shrimp can be used as a substitute, but make sure they’re completely thawed before marinating.

Additionally, adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste preference, and experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. Finally, always keep an eye on the shrimp while grilling, as they cook quickly and can easily overcook.

Techniques for Grilling Shrimp to Perfection

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the bright, tangy flavors of lemon with the robust taste of garlic, all enhanced by the smoky char from the grill. This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also quick to cook, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend cookouts. The marinade infuses the shrimp with a burst of flavor, and grilling them brings out their natural sweetness.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking to elevate your dinner, this recipe promises to impress.

Grilling shrimp requires attention to detail to guarantee they remain juicy and flavorful. The key is to marinate them adequately and monitor them closely on the grill to avoid overcooking. This recipe will guide you through the process of achieving perfectly grilled shrimp, making certain they’re tender and packed with flavor.

With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you’ll be able to serve a dish that isn’t only tasty but also visually appealing, with the vibrant colors of the shrimp and garnish.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk the ingredients until they’re well blended.
3. Marinate the Shrimp: Pour the marinade over the shrimp, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, confirm the coals are glowing red with a light layer of gray ash.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and have a slight char.
6. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for additional zest.

Extra Tips:

When grilling shrimp, it’s vital to keep a close eye on them as they cook rapidly and can turn rubbery if overdone. To prevent sticking, make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before placing the shrimp on them.

If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. For a more pronounced smoky flavor, consider using a charcoal grill or adding wood chips to a gas grill.

Finally, using metal skewers can make flipping easier, but if you opt for wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

Optimal Grilling Times for Shrimp

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful and invigorating dish that brings together the tangy brightness of lemons and the robust flavor of garlic, perfectly complementing the sweet and tender shrimp. This dish isn’t only a cinch to prepare but also offers a gourmet experience that can elevate your backyard barbecues or family dinners.

The key to achieving the perfect Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp lies in the balance of flavors and ideal grilling times to guarantee the shrimp remain juicy and flavorful.

To serve 4-6 people, this recipe requires fresh, high-quality shrimp, preferably large or jumbo, to hold up well on the grill. The marinade, consisting of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a blend of spices, infuses the shrimp with a zesty kick while keeping them moist during grilling. The grilling process itself should be quick and efficient to avoid overcooking, assuring the shrimp are tender and retain their natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the shrimp until they’re evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is essential as shrimp cook quickly, and a hot grill will provide a good sear without overcooking.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure they aren’t too crowded to allow even cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips:

To prevent wooden skewers from burning, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp. If using metal skewers, this step can be skipped.

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery; they should be just opaque and firm to the touch. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding a bit more lemon or garlic if desired. For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Elevate Your Dish With Serving Suggestions

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful and quick dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon, the aromatic punch of garlic, and the smoky essence of the grill. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a simple weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. The marinade infuses the shrimp with a zesty kick, making every bite a burst of flavor.

Whether you’re serving this as an appetizer or the main course, these grilled shrimp are sure to captivate your family and friends.

To create this flavorful dish, the shrimp are marinated in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, olive oil, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. This combination not only tenderizes the shrimp but also imparts them with a savory, mouthwatering taste profile.

Grilling them over medium-high heat guarantees they’re cooked to perfection, with a slight char that enhances their natural sweetness. Serve these shrimp hot off the grill with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl, guaranteeing they’re well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: While the shrimp marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Skewer the Shrimp: Once the shrimp are marinated, thread them onto skewers, being careful not to crowd them. This guarantees even cooking.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have a slight char.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Extra Tips:

To avoid the shrimp sticking to the grill, lightly oil the grill grates before cooking. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade.

For an extra burst of freshness, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. Remember, shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.

Enjoy your Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp with a chilled glass of white wine for a perfect pairing.

Perfect Wine Pairings for Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon and the robust aroma of garlic with succulent shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a light summer meal, a backyard barbecue, or an elegant dinner party. The tangy lemon juice and aromatic garlic infuse the shrimp with a burst of flavor that’s perfectly complemented by a smoky char from the grill.

Ideal as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and simplicity. The key to making the perfect Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is to allow the shrimp to marinate for just the right amount of time. This guarantees that the flavors penetrate the shrimp without overpowering their natural sweetness.

Served alongside a crisp salad or a bed of herbed rice, this dish isn’t only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for any occasion.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people):

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until the ingredients are well-blended.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 1 hour, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure that the coals are evenly spread and glowing.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the marinade and thread them onto skewers for easy grilling. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have a slight char. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee even cooking, choose shrimp that are similar in size. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. You can also substitute the grill with a grill pan if you prefer cooking indoors.

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a slight kick. Finally, serve the shrimp immediately after grilling for the best taste and texture.

Avoid These Grilling Mistakes

This dish isn’t only quick and easy to prepare, but it also serves as a versatile option that can be paired with a variety of sides, from a crisp salad to a hearty pasta. The key to achieving the best flavor lies in the marinade and grilling technique. It’s important to avoid common grilling mistakes such as overcooking or under-seasoning the shrimp. By following the steps in this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and impressive.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined to create a zesty marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl containing the marinade. Toss the shrimp until they’re evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp to guarantee even cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re opaque and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips: When grilling, it’s vital to keep a close eye on the shrimp because they cook very quickly. Avoid over-marinating as the acid in the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp, similar to ceviche.

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading the shrimp to prevent them from burning on the grill. For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick. Enjoy your Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp with a chilled white wine or a cool iced tea for a perfect meal.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Shrimp

Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a delightful and invigorating dish perfect for any summer barbecue or casual dinner gathering. The combination of citrusy lemon and aromatic garlic enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s sure to please any seafood lover.

This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also offers a beautiful presentation with its vibrant colors and enticing aroma. The key to making this dish truly stand out is the marinade, which infuses the shrimp with a burst of flavor.

Once marinated, the shrimp are quickly grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy, tender texture with a slightly charred exterior. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an excellent option for entertaining or a family meal. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a grilling time of about 6-8 minutes, Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp is both a quick and impressive dish to serve.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This mixture will form the marinade.
3. Marinate the Shrimp: Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat the Grill: While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Skewer the Shrimp (Optional): Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing through both the head and tail to keep them flat. This step is optional but helps with even cooking and makes turning the shrimp easier on the grill.
6. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp directly on the grill or on the skewers. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use fresh shrimp whenever possible, as frozen shrimp can sometimes have excess moisture that may dilute the marinade’s flavor.

If you choose to use wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water prior to grilling to prevent them from burning. Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less paprika or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Finally, be attentive while grilling, as shrimp cook quickly and can easily become overdone. Enjoy your Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.