Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to summer barbecues. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a touch of brown sugar creates a mouthwatering marinade that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main course, or part of a surf-and-turf meal, this shrimp dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs large shrimp (tails on, but otherwise peeled and deveined)
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the paprika, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, olive oil, dried basil, black pepper, brown sugar, and salt to taste.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, creating a smooth marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade.
- Toss the shrimp gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the flavors. If you have time, marinate for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, piercing through both the tail and the thickest part of the shrimp to ensure they stay in place during grilling.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C).
- Place the skewered shrimp on the grill.
- Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, with nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough if grilled too long.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Cook’s Notes
- Shrimp Size: Large shrimp work best for grilling as they are less likely to overcook and can easily be threaded onto skewers. If using smaller shrimp, reduce the grilling time accordingly.
- Marinade Tip: If you prefer, you can reserve a small amount of the marinade (before adding the shrimp) to brush on the shrimp during grilling for extra flavor.
- Skewer Options: If you prefer not to use skewers, you can grill the shrimp directly on a grill pan or use a grilling basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Herb Shrimp
Add ½ to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Citrus Herb Shrimp
Substitute the lemon juice with lime juice or a combination of lemon and orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Honey Garlic Herb Shrimp
Replace the brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey for a sweet and sticky glaze.
Cajun Grilled Shrimp
Replace the Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Southern-inspired flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I cook the shrimp in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until they are pink and cooked through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or enjoy them cold in a salad.
3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried herbs called for in the recipe.
4. What can I serve with grilled shrimp?
Grilled shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, pasta, or a fresh garden salad. It’s also great served over a bed of greens or as a topping for tacos.
5. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure they absorb the flavors and cook evenly.
Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar creates a marinade that perfectly complements the natural flavor of the shrimp. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a grill pan indoors, these shrimp skewers are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious, savory taste of this seafood delight!
