Grilled Spicy Shrimp is a tasty dish that features fresh shrimp coated in a zesty marinade. When grilled, they turn sweet and smoky—just perfect for a summer BBQ!
Honestly, I can’t resist the juicy shrimp paired with a light salad or wrapped in a warm tortilla. You might need a napkin, though; they can get a little messy but so worth it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for grilling. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work well too—just thaw them beforehand. I often choose wild-caught shrimp for extra flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer something different.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even ground cumin can work instead. Adjust cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use less—about 1/4 teaspoon.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice. The bottled stuff just doesn’t compare! Lime juice can be a fun substitute for a twist.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Getting perfectly grilled shrimp is easy if you follow some simple steps. The key is to avoid overcooking, which can make the shrimp tough.
- Marinate the shrimp for flavor, but don’t let them sit too long, or they can become mushy.
- Preheat the grill properly. Medium-high heat is ideal for quick cooking. Test it by holding your hand above the grill; you should feel strong heat.
- Use skewers to keep shrimp from falling through the grates. If using wooden skewers, soaking them first prevents burning.
- Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when cooked. Remove them as soon as they’re done!
With these tips, you’ll have tasty grilled shrimp every time. Enjoy your meal! 😊
Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time for this dish is about 30-45 minutes. You’ll spend about 15-30 minutes marinating the shrimp, plus 15 minutes for grilling. Perfect for a quick yet delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir everything well to create a flavorful spicy marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them until the shrimp are completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes to soak up all those tasty flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp are marinating, heat up your grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
4. Skewer the Shrimp:
Carefully thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to avoid burning on the grill.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque and have lovely charred grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your smoky, spicy grilled shrimp with a refreshing side salad, warm tortillas, or fluffy rice! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to impress friends and family. Happy grilling! 😄
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the cayenne pepper to a pinch or omit it entirely. For more spice, feel free to add extra cayenne, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can mix the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the shrimp when you’re ready to grill. This will allow the flavors to develop even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover grilled shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but keep in mind that shrimp tend to cook quickly, so watch them closely!