Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp Recipe: Juicy Seaside Magic

Succulent marinated grilled shrimp can turn an ordinary meal into a spectacular dining adventure.

Marinades work magic by infusing complex flavors deep into delicate seafood.

Zesty ingredients like citrus, herbs, and spices create a mouthwatering blend that makes each bite unforgettable.

Tender shrimp absorb incredible taste profiles when soaked in carefully selected seasonings.

Home cooks appreciate how simple techniques can elevate a basic protein into something extraordinary.

Quick marination times mean you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish without hours of preparation.

Dive into this recipe to unlock the secret of perfectly seasoned, juicy grilled shrimp that will impress everyone at your table.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator, then pat dry with paper towels before marinating to ensure the best texture and flavor.

• How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink, look opaque, and curl slightly. Overcooking can make them tough, so grill for just 2-3 minutes per side.

• What type of shrimp works best for grilling?

Large or jumbo shrimp (16-20 count) work best. They’re easier to skewer and less likely to overcook. Ensure they’re deveined and peeled for the easiest grilling experience.

• Can I marinate the shrimp longer than 30 minutes?

Avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes, as the acid from lemon juice can start to break down the shrimp’s delicate texture, making them mushy.

Why You’ll Love These Marinated Grilled Shrimp

• Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe super easy for beginners and experienced home cooks alike, allowing anyone to create restaurant-quality shrimp in minutes.
• Vibrant Mediterranean-inspired seasonings like garlic, paprika, and oregano transform basic shrimp into a zesty, mouthwatering dish that bursts with delicious taste.
• Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings, these grilled shrimp adapt beautifully to multiple occasions and complement various side dishes effortlessly.
• Low-calorie, high-protein shrimp provides a nutritious meal that's light, satisfying, and packed with lean protein, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious food lovers.

Ingredients for Juicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the star of the recipe.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Creates a flavorful and tenderizing base for the shrimp.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and zesty flavor.
• Paprika, Oregano: Provides warm and herbal seasoning notes.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Enhances overall taste and brings out the shrimp's natural flavor.

• Parsley: Optional fresh herb for added color and light freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Bright citrus accent to complement the grilled shrimp.

• Metal Skewers, Wooden Skewers: Needed for grilling the shrimp safely and evenly.
• Grill, Grill Pan: Essential for achieving a charred and smoky finish.

Instructions for Flavorful Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Shrimp

Pat each shrimp completely dry using clean paper towels to ensure perfect grilling and marinade absorption.

Step 2: Create Zesty Marinade

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Minced garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Step 3: Marinate Seafood

Gently toss shrimp in the marinade until every piece is beautifully coated.

Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to develop rich flavors.

Step 4: Fire Up Cooking Surface

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, creating perfect searing conditions for succulent shrimp.

Step 5: Skewer Shrimp

Thread marinated shrimp onto metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection

Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into bright pink, completely opaque morsels with delightful light charring.

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

Remove shrimp from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Plate immediately with lemon wedges alongside your favorite complementary side dishes.

Tips for Marinating and Grilling Shrimp Just Right

• Choose large, deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor, ensuring they're cleaned and prepared before marinating.
• Don't exceed 30 minutes to prevent the acid from breaking down the shrimp's delicate protein structure, which can make them tough and rubbery.
• Lightly oil the grill grates or skewers to help shrimp release easily and maintain their beautiful grill marks without tearing.
• Let shrimp sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes after marinating to help them cook more evenly and absorb the seasoning deeply.
• Enjoy grilled shrimp right after cooking to savor the optimal texture and temperature, preventing them from becoming chewy or cold.

How to Store and Reheat Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• Store leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Warm shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil, stirring carefully to prevent overcooking. Alternatively, microwave on 50% power for 30-45 seconds.
• Transform cold leftover shrimp into a fresh salad, pasta dish, or wrap for a quick and delicious meal. Slice and toss with mixed greens or mix into a light pasta.
• If needed, freeze plain cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best quality.

What Goes Well with Grilled Shrimp

• Refresh with Crisp White Wine: Pair this zesty grilled shrimp with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the citrusy marinade and cut through the richness of the seafood.
• Cool Greek-Style Side Salad: Create a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with feta cheese, dressed in olive oil and herbs to echo the Mediterranean flavors of the shrimp marinade.
• Serve with Herbed Quinoa: Prepare light quinoa with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a touch of garlic to match the herb profile of the grilled shrimp, providing a protein-rich and flavorful base.
• Quick Garlic Aioli Dip: Whip up a simple garlic aioli using mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice as a creamy, tangy dipping sauce that enhances the grilled shrimp's flavor.

Flavor Swaps for Shrimp Marinades

• Spicy Cajun Kick: Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning and add a dash of cayenne pepper for a bold, zesty flavor profile that brings heat to the classic recipe.
• Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Swap oregano for fresh chopped basil and thyme, then add crumbled feta cheese after grilling for a Greek-inspired variation.
• Low-Carb Keto Version: Use avocado oil instead of olive oil and serve with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep the dish diet-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure all marinade ingredients are certified gluten-free and use coconut aminos instead of traditional seasonings for those with wheat sensitivities.

Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Mediterranean-style Grilled Shrimp marinades perfectly blend zesty herbs and citrus for an unforgettable coastal dining experience. These juicy, tender skewers bring Mediterranean sunshine right to your dinner plate, satisfying seafood cravings with bold, fresh flavors you’ll absolutely love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)

Marinade Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Seasoning:

• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly blot excess moisture from shrimp using clean kitchen towels to ensure optimal marinade absorption and better grilling results.
2. Create a vibrant marinade by whisking together robust olive oil, zesty lemon juice, minced garlic, smoky paprika, aromatic oregano, and season with salt and pepper for depth of flavor.
3. Gently fold shrimp into marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated, then seal container and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
4. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature (around 400-450°F) while shrimp marinates, ensuring cooking surface is hot and ready.
5. Carefully skewer shrimp, spacing them evenly to promote uniform cooking and prevent overcrowding, using metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers.
6. Place skewered shrimp on hot grill, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until they transform to a bright pink color, appear opaque, and develop light charred edges.
7. Transfer grilled shrimp from heat, optionally garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and visual appeal.
8. Serve immediately alongside lemon wedges or complementary side dishes, enjoying the shrimp while they’re hot and perfectly seasoned.

Notes

• Pat shrimp completely dry to ensure crispy, perfectly grilled exterior without excess moisture.
• Use fresh lemon juice for brighter, zestier marinade flavor that enhances seafood’s natural sweetness.
• Select medium or large shrimp for easier skewering and more consistent grilling results.
• Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
• When marinading, avoid exceeding 30 minutes to prevent citrus from breaking down shrimp’s delicate texture.
• Check shrimp doneness by looking for bright pink color and slight curl in shape, indicating perfect cooking.
• Alternative cooking methods include broiling or pan-searing if outdoor grilling isn’t available.
• Low-carb and gluten-free friendly recipe that works well with various dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg