Grilled Garlic & Herb Shrimp: A Flavorful Summer Recipe

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.
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.
Prepare the Herb Mixture and Marinate Shrimp
  • 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.
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.
Prepare the Herb Mixture and Marinate Shrimp

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

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.
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.
Make the Finishing Sauce

Step 4. Serve and Garnish

  • Spoon the sauce over the grilled shrimp and garnish with lemon wedges.
Spoon the sauce over the grilled shrimp and garnish with lemon wedges.
Serve and Garnish

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!