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The sizzle of shrimp hitting the grill is like a summertime symphony, instantly transporting me to sun-soaked barbecues and salty ocean breezes. This Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter is my go-to recipe when I crave something quick yet satisfying. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy succulent shrimp, perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, drenched in a vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, but this dish also works wonders for an easy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce or a crisp salad for a light meal, it’s undeniably a delightful way to elevate your dinner table. Ready to fire up the grill and savor this irresistible seafood dish? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Grilled Lemon Shrimp a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe is quick and uncomplicated, requiring just 10 minutes from grill to plate, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bold flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a tantalizing sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
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Crispy and juicy: Achieve that perfect balance with crispy exteriors and tender interiors for an unforgettable bite!
Versatile pairing: Serve it alongside grilled veggies, a refreshing salad, or crusty bread to soak up that luscious lemon garlic butter—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Perfect for gatherings: Impress your guests at summer barbecues or dinner parties with this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Explore similar flavors with our delicious Cranberry Turkey Grilled cheese for a hearty satiny option!
Grilled Lemon Shrimp Ingredients
Quick note: Elevate your dishes with these vibrant ingredients for delicious grilled lemon shrimp!
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor in the sauce; use salted butter if unsalted isn’t available.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; finely chop to avoid burning while retaining texture.
• Lemon Juice – Fresh juice brightens the dish; adjust to taste for a zesty kick.
For the Shrimp
• Large Raw Shrimp (Prawns) – The main protein; peeled and deveined shrimp save prep time.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to your preference.
• Garlic Powder – Amplifies garlic flavor; omit for a lighter taste.
• Smoked Paprika – Introduces mild smokiness; replace with regular paprika if desired.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adds heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Olive Oil – Prevents sticking on the grill; any cooking oil can work as a substitute.
For Serving
• Fresh Parsley – Optional but adds color and freshness as a garnish.
• Lemon Wedges – Serve for an extra burst of citrusy goodness; grill for a smoky touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Start by brushing the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Preheat the grill on high heat for about 10 minutes until it is screaming hot and ready to sizzle your shrimp. This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy exterior on your grilled lemon shrimp.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic and sauté until the garlic is lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Then, stir in the juice of one fresh lemon, mixing well before setting aside this aromatic sauce to enhance the finished dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp
While the grill heats up, pat 1 pound of large raw shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful spices. This step is crucial for flavor development in your grilled lemon shrimp.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Once the grill is ready, arrange the seasoned shrimp on the grates in a single layer. Grill for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and begin to char slightly. Then, flip the shrimp and grill for another 2 minutes, ensuring each piece is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Carefully transfer the grilled lemon shrimp to a serving plate. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce generously over the shrimp, allowing it to pool slightly at the bottom. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve immediately with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Grilled Lemon Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore creative swaps and twists that’ll make this dish uniquely yours!
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Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or fish fillets for a delightful seafood variation, offering different flavors and textures.
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Zesty Lime: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a vibrant and tropical flair that adds a refreshing twist to the sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or cilantro into your lemon garlic butter for a fragrant boost that complements seafood beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Up the flavor profile by adding sliced jalapeños to the grilling process or sprinkle in cayenne pepper for a spicy finish.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey over the shrimp before grilling to create a delightful contrast to the tangy lemon sauce.
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Crunchy Topping: Toss in some chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds before serving for an added crunchy texture that elevates the dish.
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Smoke it Up: Infuse your grilled shrimp with a smoky flavor by using smoked sea salt or by adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
For more delicious ideas, check out our recipe for Easy Lemon Sweet Rolls, which pairs wonderfully with grilled dishes!
Expert Tips for Grilled Lemon Shrimp
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Don’t Marinate: Avoid marinating shrimp as it can lead to moisture loss; seasoning them just before grilling keeps them juicy.
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Watch the Time: Cook shrimp for no more than 4 minutes total for the best texture; overcooking leads to toughness.
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Skewer Small Shrimp: If using smaller shrimp, skewering them helps prevent them from falling through the grill grates; use two skewers for extra stability.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice over bottled; it significantly enhances the flavor of your grilled lemon shrimp.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Grill shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even cooking and that irresistible crispy texture.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Lemon Shrimp
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Fridge: Store leftover grilled lemon shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to retain moisture and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Label with the date!
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Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. This method helps maintain their delightful texture.
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Avoid Refreezing: Once thawed, do not refreeze grilled lemon shrimp, as this can lead to a loss of quality and taste. Enjoy them fresh whenever possible!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter are fantastic for meal prep! You can make the lemon garlic butter sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply melt the butter, sauté the garlic, and mix in the lemon juice. Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the shrimp (1 pound of large raw shrimp) with salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper up to 24 hours ahead—just keep them in the fridge, covered, to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to grill, simply heat the grill and cook the shrimp for about 4 minutes total, drizzling the prepared sauce over them right before serving. This prep will save you valuable time on busy weeknights while still delivering delightful, restaurant-quality results!
What to Serve with Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter
Looking for the perfect accompaniments to elevate your grilled shrimp experience? Here are some delightful pairings to inspire your meal!
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- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious lemon garlic butter, this addition adds a wonderful texture and satisfies your carb cravings.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, vibrant salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette complements the shrimp’s rich flavors beautifully, offering crunch and freshness.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions add a smoky flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the lemon garlic shrimp.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy, seasoned rice serves as a neutral base that soaks up all the delicious butter sauce, creating a comforting side full of flavor.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp, making each bite exciting and balanced.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the shrimp’s flavors, ensuring the meal feels bright and celebratory.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These hearty, crispy potatoes with garlic flavor echo the shrimp’s seasoning, creating a satisfying comfort food duo.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed with a splash of lemon juice, this nutritious side adds a lovely green note and a burst of flavor to your plate.
- Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango salsa brings a vibrant, zesty twist that pairs perfectly with the grilled shrimp’s savory notes.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing treat cleanses the palate and echoes the lemony theme of your meal, leaving everyone blissfully satisfied.
Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for grilling?
Absolutely! For grilling, I recommend using large raw shrimp or prawns that are peeled and deveined for convenience. They offer the best texture and flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen shrimp that has been thawed and drained work well too.
How should I store leftover grilled shrimp?
Very important! Store leftover grilled lemon shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to lock in moisture and flavor. When ready to eat, reheat on a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes to maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze grilled shrimp? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze, first arrange the grilled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. This step prevents them from sticking together. Once solid, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Remember, though, do not refreeze once thawed!
What are some tips to avoid overcooking the shrimp?
To achieve that perfect texture, keep an eye on the shrimp as they grill. Cook for no more than 4 minutes total—2 minutes on each side—until they turn pink and are lightly charred. If they become tough, they’ve likely been overcooked, so always watch the time closely.
How do I check if shrimp are fresh?
When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a clean, ocean-like smell. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a dull appearance as these can be signs of spoilage. Fresh shrimp should also be slightly translucent and glistening, not pasty or dry in appearance.
Is this grilled shrimp recipe pet-friendly?
While shrimp themselves are not toxic for pets, it’s always best to serve them plain without added seasonings like garlic or butter that might not be good for your furry friends. If your pet loves shrimp, consider saving a piece for them to enjoy—just ensure it’s unseasoned!
Savor Every Bite of Grilled Lemon Shrimp Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil and preheat on high heat for about 10 minutes until hot.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until lightly golden. Stir in juice of one fresh lemon and set aside.
- Pat 1 pound of large raw shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix shrimp with salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Arrange seasoned shrimp on the grill in a single layer. Grill for about 2 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and grill for another 2 minutes.
- Transfer grilled shrimp to a serving plate, drizzle with lemon garlic butter sauce, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
