What makes a perfect summer dinner? This best marinated grilled shrimp recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution, featuring succulent shrimp in a zesty homemade marinade, perfect for grilling to perfection, save this idea for your next family favorite meal

the best marinated grilled shrimp recipe

Introduction

Are you looking for a dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this incredible marinated grilled shrimp recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress your friends and family. The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with your favorite flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their meal routine.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, and uses ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to go in no time. The marinade does all the work, infusing the shrimp with delicious flavor while you relax.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this recipe yields impressive results that are sure to wow your dinner guests. The combination of tender shrimp, crispy exterior, and flavorful marinade is a winning combination.

Key Ingredients

The star of the show in this recipe is, of course, the shrimp. You’ll want to use fresh, succulent shrimp for the best results. In addition to the shrimp, you’ll need a few basic ingredients to make the marinade, including olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the marinade – try adding some diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to give it extra flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute for any of these ingredients, you can try using avocado oil instead of olive oil, or swapping out the garlic for some minced ginger.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices. Add in any additional ingredients you like, such as diced onions or bell peppers.
2. Step 2: Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
3. Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and thread them onto skewers, if desired. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
4. Step 4: Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also serve them with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a salad.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overcook the shrimp – they should be pink and tender, but still firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, try cutting into one of the shrimp to check for doneness.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients in the marinade. Try adding some soy sauce or honey for a sweet and savory flavor, or some diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
• If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.

Heat Control

When grilling the shrimp, it’s essential to keep an eye on the heat. You want the grill to be hot, but not so hot that it burns the shrimp. Aim for a medium-high heat, and adjust as needed to prevent burning. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp – they should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the crispy exterior of the shrimp, which is achieved by grilling them at high heat. To get the best crunch, make sure to not overcrowd the grill – cook the shrimp in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly. You can also try adding some crunchy toppings, such as chopped nuts or seeds, to give the dish extra texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Try using a cast-iron skillet or grill pan to add a smoky flavor to the shrimp. Simply heat the pan over high heat, add a small amount of oil, and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.
• For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some aromatics to the grill while the shrimp are cooking. Onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms all work well, and can be cooked alongside the shrimp for added flavor.
• To prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, try brushing the grates with a small amount of oil before cooking. You can also use a grill mat or piece of aluminum foil to prevent sticking.

Storage Tips

• Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Try using a vacuum sealer or zip-top bag to store the shrimp and prevent freezer burn. Frozen shrimp can be stored for up to 3 months.
• When reheating the shrimp, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and prevent drying out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give this recipe as a gift, try packaging the shrimp in a decorative jar or container with a lid. You can also add some extra touches, such as a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side of cocktail sauce. For a more substantial gift, try pairing the shrimp with some crusty bread or crackers, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding some different spices to the marinade, such as cumin or coriander, for a unique flavor profile.
• For a spicy kick, try adding some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the marinade.
• For a sweet and savory flavor, try adding some honey or brown sugar to the marinade.

Troubleshooting

• If the shrimp are too dry or overcooked, try reducing the cooking time or heat. You can also try adding some extra moisture to the marinade, such as lemon juice or olive oil.
• If the shrimp are underseasoned, try adding some extra salt or herbs to the marinade. You can also try using a different type of salt, such as sea salt or kosher salt, for added flavor.
• If the shrimp are sticking to the grill, try brushing the grates with a small amount of oil before cooking. You can also use a grill mat or piece of aluminum foil to prevent sticking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the shrimp for up to 3 months. Simply store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and thaw when you’re ready to cook.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. However, if you’re using a store-bought marinade or sauce, be sure to check the ingredients list for any gluten-containing ingredients.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This marinated grilled shrimp recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and impressive results, it’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the marinade and try out different flavors and ingredients – and don’t forget to share your favorite variations with friends and family! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.