Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious meal? My Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp recipe is full of fresh flavors and is super easy to make! This dish features juicy shrimp marinated in a bright mix of lemon and herbs. Perfect for any occasion, it’s quick to grill and ideal for a summer cookout or a cozy weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the tasty details!
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Juice of 2 fresh lemons
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
To make Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp, you need fresh and simple ingredients. The shrimp should be large and fresh for the best taste. The olive oil adds richness, while lemon juice brightens the flavor. The zest gives an extra lemony kick. Fresh garlic infuses the dish with depth. Herbs like parsley and cilantro add freshness. Oregano brings an earthy note. Red pepper flakes can spice things up, but they’re optional. Lastly, salt and pepper balance all the flavors.
Using these ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone.Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marination Process
To start, you need to make the marinade. In a medium bowl, combine:
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Juice of 2 fresh lemons
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Whisk these ingredients well. This mix gives the shrimp a bright, zesty flavor.
Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Make sure each shrimp gets a nice coat of the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up all the great flavors.
Grill Preparation
While the shrimp marinates, it’s time to prepare the grill. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. To stop the shrimp from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates. You can use a paper towel with oil or a non-stick spray.
If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
Cooking the Shrimp
Once the shrimp is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Discard any leftover marinade to keep things safe. Now, thread the shrimp onto the skewers. Place them close together but not too tight; this ensures they cook evenly.
Place the skewers on your preheated grill. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn opaque with beautiful grill marks when done. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary based on size.
After grilling, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a minute. This rest time helps the shrimp keep their juicy flavor.Enjoy your tasty grilled lemon herb shrimp!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Grilled Shrimp
To make the best grilled shrimp, you need to prevent sticking. Here are some great tips:
– Oil the grill grates: Use a paper towel soaked in oil. This helps create a non-stick surface.
– Choose fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will hold their shape and flavor better on the grill.
– Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give each shrimp space to cook evenly. This helps them brown nicely.
Marination is also key. It adds great flavor and tenderizes the shrimp. Here’s why it matters:
– Time: Marinate for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the shrimp to soak up all the good flavors.
– Flavor balance: Use ingredients like lemon juice and herbs. They brighten the dish and enhance the shrimp’s taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your grilled lemon herb shrimp with some delicious sides. Here are some ideas:
– Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the shrimp well.
– Salads: A light mixed greens salad adds freshness and crunch.
When it comes to presentation, here’s how to make your dish pop:
– Use a vibrant platter: A colorful plate makes the shrimp stand out.
– Garnish with lemon wedges: They add color and a zesty touch.
– Sprinkle extra herbs: Fresh herbs not only look good but also enhance the flavor.Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Herb Combinations
You can switch up the herbs for your grilled lemon herb shrimp. Try fresh dill or basil for a unique twist. Each herb brings a new flavor to your dish. You can also mix and match the herbs. For example, use half parsley and half cilantro. This gives a nice balance of tastes.
If you want to change the marinade, consider using yogurt or honey. Both add moisture and flavor. You could also try adding mustard or soy sauce. These can give your shrimp a different zing. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Heat Levels
Adjusting the spice level is easy. If you like it mild, skip the red pepper flakes. For those who enjoy heat, add more flakes or some cayenne pepper. You can also add sliced jalapeños to the marinade for a fresh kick.
For extra flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce. This can enhance the taste without just increasing heat. You can experiment with different spices to find what you love. Cooking should be fun, so don’t hesitate to try new things!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
After enjoying your grilled lemon herb shrimp, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure the shrimp cool down before sealing them. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the shrimp. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen shrimp can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Best Practices for Reheating
Reheating grilled shrimp is simple. The best way is to use a skillet on low heat. This warms them evenly and keeps them juicy. You can also use an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make shrimp rubbery. To keep their flavor, add a splash of olive oil or fresh lemon juice before reheating. Enjoy your flavorful leftovers!
FAQs
Common Questions on Grilled Shrimp
What type of shrimp is best for grilling?
I recommend using large shrimp. They hold up well on the grill. Look for shrimp that are fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined. Jumbo shrimp can also work well if you want a big bite.
How long should shrimp be marinated?
Marinate shrimp for 20 to 30 minutes. This short time lets the shrimp soak in flavors without becoming too soft. If you marinate it too long, the acid in the lemon juice can break down the shrimp too much.
Can I grill shrimp without skewers?
Yes, you can grill shrimp without skewers. Just place the shrimp directly on the grill. Use a grill basket to keep them from falling through the grates. This method works well and makes flipping easier.
Grilled shrimp is a tasty dish that’s easy to make. We covered the key ingredients and marination tips. You learned how to prepare the grill and cook the shrimp perfectly. I shared ideas for serving and storing leftovers. You can even try different herbs and spice levels.
In the end, grilled shrimp is fun to make and enjoy. It offers many ways to be creative. So, fire up that grill and get cooking!
