Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Juicy and Flavorful Delight

Get ready to fire up your grill! In this post, I’ll show you how to make Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp that’s juicy and packed with flavor. You’ll learn about the best ingredients, easy marinating tips, and grilling techniques that ensure a perfect cook every time. Whether you’re a novice or a grill master, this recipe will elevate your next BBQ. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Ingredients

Detailed list of ingredients

To make Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp, gather these items:

- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons

- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, roughly chopped

- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- Lemon wedges for serving

Fresh versus dried herb options

When choosing herbs, fresh herbs shine in this recipe. Fresh parsley and cilantro add bright flavors. They give a pop of color and taste. Dried oregano works well too, but fresh is best for this dish. If you only have dried herbs, use half the amount. Dried herbs are stronger than fresh ones.

Recommended shrimp size and sourcing

For grilling, large shrimp work best. They stay juicy and cook evenly. Look for shrimp labeled as "U15" or "16/20." These sizes are perfect. Always choose shrimp that are fresh or frozen. If buying frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you can, buy shrimp that are wild-caught. They usually have better flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the marinade

To make the marinade, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Next, zest and juice 2 fresh lemons into the bowl. This adds bright flavor. Now, mince 3 cloves of garlic and add them in. Chop 1 tablespoon each of fresh parsley and cilantro, then toss them in, too. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything well to blend those fragrant ingredients.

Marinating the shrimp for optimal flavor

Now, gently add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss the shrimp carefully until they are all coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you want even more flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours. This step makes sure the shrimp soak up all those tasty herbs and lemon.

Grilling techniques for the perfect shrimp

When it's time to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes. This keeps them from burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked skewers. Discard any leftover marinade to avoid flare-ups. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque. You want slight char marks for extra flavor. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, let the shrimp rest for about a minute. Serve them with fresh lemon wedges and some extra herbs for a lovely touch.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring shrimp remain juicy and tender

To keep shrimp juicy, marinate them well. Use olive oil and lemon juice. The acid in lemon helps. Let the shrimp soak for at least 30 minutes. For even better taste, go for 2 hours. This gives the flavors time to soak in. When grilling, watch the time. Grill them for just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery. You want them bright pink and firm.

Best practices for grilling on different types of grills

Whether you use gas or charcoal, preheat your grill. A hot grill gives you nice grill marks. For gas grills, set to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, let the coals get white hot. Always oil the grill grates. This helps prevent sticking. If you use wooden skewers, soak them first. This avoids burning. Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to keep heat in.

How to avoid common grilling mistakes

One mistake is overcrowding the grill. Leave space between the shrimp for even cooking. Another mistake is not checking the shrimp. Use tongs to flip them gently. Never use a fork, as it pokes holes. This lets juices escape. Also, do not rush the grill. Let shrimp rest briefly after cooking. This helps them stay moist. These simple steps can make a big difference!

Variations

Alternative marinades for flavor enhancement

You can change the marinade to switch up the taste. Try adding spicy ingredients like chili flakes or cayenne for heat. You can also use honey for a sweet touch. A ginger-soy mix will give it an Asian twist. Just remember to keep the lemon for a fresh base.

Different protein options suitable for grilling

If you want to try other proteins, shrimp is not your only choice. Chicken breast works well, too. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Fish like salmon or swordfish can add a rich flavor. You can also grill firm tofu for a plant-based option.

Serving suggestions for sides and dips

Pair your shrimp with tasty sides for a complete meal. A fresh salad with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes is light and refreshing. Grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and flavor. For dips, a zesty garlic aioli or a tangy tzatziki can be great choices. They help balance the shrimp’s bright taste.

Storage Information

Storing leftover grilled shrimp

After grilling, let the shrimp cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can store the shrimp in the fridge for up to three days. If you have a lot, consider freezing. Use a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as you can. This prevents freezer burn.

Reheating tips without losing texture

To reheat grilled shrimp, avoid the microwave if you can. The microwave can make them tough. Instead, use a pan on low heat. Add a splash of olive oil. Stir gently until warm. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet for about five minutes. This keeps them juicy and tasty.

How long can grilled shrimp be stored?

Grilled shrimp can stay in the fridge for three days. Always check for any off smells before eating. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge, not on the counter. This keeps them safe to eat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the shrimp absorb flavors well.

What is the best type of grill for grilling shrimp?

A gas grill works best for grilling shrimp. It heats evenly and gives you good control. Charcoal grills also work fine. They add a nice smoky flavor. Use skewers or a grill basket to keep shrimp from falling through.

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a C shape. Use a meat thermometer if unsure. The internal temperature should reach 120°F. Avoid overcooking; this keeps shrimp juicy and tender.

To sum up, we explored key ingredients, from fresh to dried herbs, and shrimp sizing. We covered step-by-step instructions for marinating and grilling. I shared tips to keep shrimp juicy and revealed common grilling mistakes to avoid. We also discussed variations, like alternative marinades and protein options. Lastly, we tackled storage info and answered common questions about grilling shrimp.

Grilling shrimp can be simple and rewarding. With these tips, you can create great dishes! Happy grilling!