Zesty Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe for Summer Feasts

Succulent grilled garlic and herb shrimp sparkle with Mediterranean charm and coastal vibrancy.

Zesty aromas waft from perfectly seasoned seafood, promising a delightful culinary adventure.

Marinades infuse each tender morsel with rich, complex flavors that dance across your palate.

Crisp herbs and robust garlic create a symphonic blend of taste and texture.

Light and elegant, these shrimp deliver a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.

Fresh ingredients matter most when crafting this simple yet impressive dish.

You will love how quickly this recipe comes together for an effortless meal that looks professionally prepared.

Savor every bite of this restaurant-quality creation right from your own kitchen.

What Makes Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp So Flavorful

• Burst with Flavor: Packed with aromatic herbs and zesty garlic, this recipe transforms simple shrimp into a mouthwatering delicacy that tingles taste buds.
• Master Grilling Technique: Perfect for beginners and grill enthusiasts, this recipe teaches precise cooking methods to achieve perfectly charred, juicy shrimp every single time.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Impressive enough for gatherings yet simple to prepare, these herbed shrimp skewers will wow guests without requiring complex cooking skills.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or alongside salads and grains, making it adaptable for various dining scenarios from casual weeknight dinners to summer barbecues.

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the primary protein for this flavorful grilled dish.

• Olive Oil: Provides a smooth base for the marinade and helps distribute herbs and spices.
• Garlic, Parsley, Basil, Oregano: Fresh herbs that create a robust and aromatic flavor profile for the shrimp.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Adds bright, citrusy notes that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that balance and elevate the natural flavors of the shrimp and herbs.

• Fresh Parsley, Lemon Wedges: Provide a fresh finish and additional citrus brightness to the grilled shrimp.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

Step 1: Whip Up Zesty Marinade

Grab a small mixing bowl and blend together olive oil, minced garlic, freshly chopped parsley, basil, oregano, bright lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients create a harmonious, aromatic mixture.

Step 2: Bathe Shrimp in Flavor

Transfer shrimp into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow container. Generously pour the prepared marinade over the shrimp, ensuring each piece gets totally coated. Seal tightly and pop into the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing flavors to dance and mingle.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high temperature, creating those perfect searing conditions for succulent seafood.

Step 4: Skewer and Sizzle

Carefully thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, piercing through both tail and head sections. Place shrimp on the hot grill, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque with beautiful charred edges.

Step 5: Plate and Present

Slide grilled shrimp onto a stunning serving platter. Sprinkle with additional fresh parsley and arrange lemon wedges around the edges for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy presentation.

Insider Tips for Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the herbs and garlic adhere better and create a more flavorful crust.
• Choose fresh, large shrimp with shells removed for quick and easy grilling that maximizes flavor absorption.
• Avoid over-marinating shrimp for more than 2 hours, as the acid from lemon juice can start to break down the delicate protein and make it tough.
• For a gluten-free option, swap out any marinade ingredients that might contain gluten and use fresh herbs from your garden for an extra burst of flavor.

Flavor Variations for Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

• Mediterranean Fusion: Replace basil with mint and add crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired version with tangy Mediterranean flavors.
• Spicy Caribbean Style: Mix in cayenne pepper, paprika, and a splash of rum to the marinade, creating a bold and zesty Caribbean-inspired shrimp that brings tropical heat.
• Asian Sesame Kick: Swap olive oil with sesame oil, add grated ginger, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds after grilling for an East Asian-inspired profile with nutty undertones.
• Smoky Chipotle Version: Incorporate chipotle powder and a touch of smoked paprika into the marinade for a rich, smoky southwestern flair that adds complex depth to the shrimp.

Pairing Ideas for Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

• Elevate Citrus Crisp White Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the garlic's richness while complementing the shrimp's delicate seafood flavor, creating a refreshing Mediterranean-style dining experience.
• Create Herbal Mediterranean Cocktail Match: Craft a gin-based cocktail with fresh rosemary and lemon, mirroring the recipe's herb profile and enhancing the grilled shrimp's zesty undertones.
• Spark Creamy Accompaniment Plate: Serve with a light garlic aioli or herb-infused Greek tzatziki, providing a cool, tangy counterpoint to the charred, succulent grilled shrimp.

How to Store Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp Properly

• Store leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Cover completely to prevent drying out and preserve flavor.
• Pack cooled shrimp in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for maximum 3 weeks.
• Warm shrimp at 275°F for 10-12 minutes, wrapped in foil to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery texture.
• Quickly sauté shrimp in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to prevent breaking. Add a splash of lemon juice to refresh flavor.

FAQs About Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

• Why marinate shrimp before grilling?

Marinating helps infuse flavor, tenderize the shrimp, and prevent them from drying out during cooking. The herbs and garlic create a delicious coating that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This ensures better marinade absorption and helps achieve a nice char on the grill.

• How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly and become tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully while grilling.

Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp Recipe

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4.5 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 36 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty grilled garlic and herb shrimp tantalize taste buds with Mediterranean coastal charm. Succulent seafood marinates in aromatic herbs, promising a delightful culinary escape you’ll savor down to the last delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Herbs and Aromatics:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking olive oil with finely minced garlic, freshly chopped herbs, zesty lemon components, and seasoning until well integrated.
2. Submerge shrimp completely in the aromatic mixture, ensuring thorough coating. Refrigerate for 30-120 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
3. Heat outdoor grill to medium-high temperature, creating optimal cooking surface around 400-450°F.
4. Carefully arrange marinated shrimp onto clean skewers, positioning them horizontally to ensure even grilling exposure.
5. Position skewered shrimp directly on preheated grill grates, cooking approximately 2-3 minutes per side until protein transforms from translucent to opaque white with delicate caramelized edges.
6. Remove grilled shrimp from heat, allowing brief resting period to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
7. Transfer to elegant serving platter, garnishing with additional fresh herb sprinkles and accompanying bright lemon wedges for optional citrus enhancement.

Notes

• Select jumbo or large shrimp for better grilling results, ensuring they don’t fall through grill grates and maintaining a juicy texture.
• Pat shrimp completely dry before marinating to help seasonings adhere better and achieve perfect caramelization during grilling.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading shrimp to prevent burning and potential fire hazards on the grill.
• For gluten-free option, replace plastic bag with glass container during marination and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 236 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 230 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 190 mg