Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
This Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is packed with flavor, featuring succulent shrimp coated in a savory garlic butter sauce, with a hint of lemon and herbs. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for summer grilling or a special dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for presentation if desired)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (plus more for serving)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Marinade:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Remove from heat and stir in the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with the garlic butter mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature (or cover and refrigerate for up to an hour).
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
- If using skewers, thread the shrimp onto the skewers, ensuring they are securely placed to prevent them from falling off during grilling.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
- Place the shrimp skewers (or individual shrimp) on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque, pink, and slightly charred around the edges.
- Baste the shrimp with any remaining garlic butter marinade while grilling.
5. Serve:
- Remove the shrimp from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly and can become rubbery if left on the grill too long. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready.
- Alternative cooking method: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the shrimp in a hot skillet or broil them in the oven for similar results.
- Serve with sides: Pair these grilled shrimp with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy this flavorful Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or a crowd-pleasing dish at your next barbecue!