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Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp marinated in a fragrant garlic and lemon mixture. Ready in under 20 minutes, it offers a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and zesty notes, making it ideal for casual barbecues, weeknight dinners, or elegant gatherings. Low in calories and high in protein, this versatile recipe works as an appetizer, main course, or salad topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Spices

  • Red pepper flakes, to taste
  • Smoked paprika, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices until well blended, creating a fragrant marinade base.
  2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat thoroughly. Let them soak for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors without becoming too soft.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates well to prevent sticking. Alternatively, use a grill pan or outdoor grill.
  4. Grill the Shrimp: Place shrimp directly on the grill grates or thread onto skewers. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and develop slight char marks but remain juicy inside.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove shrimp from the grill, toss with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, and squeeze additional lemon juice if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Choose fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp for the best texture.
  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Marinate shrimp for only 15–30 minutes; longer can break down the shrimp due to acidity.
  • Using metal or soaked wooden skewers helps prevent shrimp from falling through the grill grates.
  • Cook over medium-high heat for a good sear without burning the garlic.

Nutrition

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