Summer evenings practically demand a vibrant, flavorful meal, and this Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp recipe delivers just that. Imagine succulent shrimp, kissed by the grill and infused with the fragrant aroma of garlic, herbs, and a touch of zesty lemon. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. The bright flavors and beautiful presentation are sure to impress your guests, leaving them wanting more.
This recipe is surprisingly versatile; you can easily adjust the herbs to your liking or serve it with your favorite sides, from grilled vegetables to a simple salad. Ready to create this delicious summer feast? Let's dive into the step-by-step grilling guide, complete with tips and tricks to ensure perfectly cooked, flavorful shrimp every time.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Sharp knife
- Plastic bag
- Skewers (metal or soaked bamboo)
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spoonula
Ingredients
- Shrimp (16-20 count per pound): 2 pounds
- Basil leaves
- Oregano (Greek and Italian)
- Italian Parsley leaves
- Lemon Thyme leaves
- Garlic cloves: 3
- Kosher salt
- Lemon zest: a little bit
- Olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (Aleppo or chili flakes)
- Cayenne pepper: a pinch
- Lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Herb Mixture and Marinate Shrimp
- Prepare the herbs by removing leaves from stems. This is easiest for most herbs except thyme, which takes a bit longer.
- In a mortar and pestle, crush together kosher salt, a little lemon zest, and sliced garlic.
- Roughly chop the herbs (start with largest basil leaves to bind). Add to the mortar and pestle and crush with the garlic mixture.
- Drizzle in olive oil, a little at a time, mixing and crushing until you reach desired consistency.




- Transfer two-thirds of the herb mixture to a plastic bag, add the shrimp, and mix thoroughly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least three hours.

Step 2. Skewer and Grill the Shrimp
- Skewer the marinated shrimp.
- Grill shrimp on very high heat, for a few minutes per side until cooked through and nicely caramelized.


Step 3. Make the Finishing Sauce
- In a bowl, combine the remaining herb mixture with red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Whisk to make a sauce.

Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Spoon the sauce over the grilled shrimp and garnish with lemon wedges.

Read more: Classic Beef Spiedini: Italian-Style Kebabs Recipe
Tips
- Using a mortar and pestle creates superior flavor compared to a food processor or blender.
- For best results, use a very hot grill to achieve good caramelization.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling for best results. Grilling frozen shrimp can lead to uneven cooking.
2. How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the shrimp on them. This creates a barrier and helps prevent sticking. You can also use skewers for easier flipping and to prevent sticking.
This Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. From the first bite to the last, the vibrant flavors will leave you wanting more, making it a recipe you'll return to again and again. Enjoy the taste of summer with this easy and delicious dish!