Looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor but easy to make? You’ll love my Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe! With juicy shrimp, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon, it’s perfect for any occasion. Just a few simple steps lead to a mouthwatering meal. Whether you serve it with a salad or rice, your taste buds will thank you. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get grilling!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Zesty: The combination of lemon and herbs gives this shrimp a bright and refreshing flavor that is perfect for summer grilling.
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Light: Grilled shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein option that is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile Serving Options: These shrimp can be served as an appetizer, in tacos, or over a salad, making them a flexible choice for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
Flavor Enhancers
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Serving Suggestions
– Lemon wedges for garnish
– Optional sides to complement the dish (e.g., salad, rice)
When I prepare this dish, I focus on fresh and simple ingredients. The large shrimp bring a sweet, ocean flavor. Olive oil adds richness and helps the shrimp cook evenly. The fresh lemons give a bright taste that balances the dish. It’s all about keeping the flavors clean and vibrant.
For flavor, I add garlic to give a savory note. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil bring a burst of freshness. Oregano adds depth, and red pepper flakes give a hint of heat if you like spice. I never skip seasoning with sea salt and black pepper; they enhance every bite.
When serving, I always include lemon wedges. They let you squeeze extra zest over the shrimp. I also think about sides that pair well, like a light salad or fluffy rice. These sides complete the meal and keep it light and tasty.
This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Each bite is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In that bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, the zest of two fresh lemons, and their juice. This mix will create a bright and tangy base. Next, add three finely minced cloves of garlic, two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, one tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, and one teaspoon of dried oregano. If you like a little heat, toss in one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Finally, sprinkle in sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Make sure everything blends well. The fragrant smell will make you eager to cook!
Marinating the Shrimp
Now it’s time for the shrimp. Take one pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Carefully add them to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss the shrimp until they are fully coated. You want every piece to soak in those delicious flavors. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes but no longer than two hours. This time allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors without losing their lovely texture.
Grilling Process
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about ten minutes. This step helps prevent them from catching fire. Afterward, thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a bit of space between each shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
When the grill is hot, place the skewers on it. Cook the shrimp for about two to three minutes on each side. You’ll know they are ready when they turn a beautiful pink and opaque color. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. Once done, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a minute. You can sprinkle a bit more sea salt and cracked black pepper on top if you like. Serve them hot, and don’t forget the lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick!
Tips & Tricks
Marination Precision
Marination is key for great flavor. The shrimp need time to soak up the marinade. I recommend marinating for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This gives the shrimp a chance to absorb the bright lemon and fresh herbs.
To balance flavors, use the right amount of spices. The garlic adds depth, while the herbs bring freshness. Adjust the red pepper flakes for heat. A little goes a long way. You want a nice kick, but not too much.
Grilling Techniques
For even cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps sear the shrimp quickly. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes. This keeps them from burning.
If you can’t grill outside, use a grill pan or the oven. A grill pan gives those nice lines, while the oven can cook shrimp evenly. Just broil them for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Achieving Perfect Texture
Look for shrimp that are pink and opaque. This shows they are properly cooked. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery. Don’t let them cook too long; 2-3 minutes on each side should do.
If your shrimp feel tough, you may have overcooked them. Keep an eye on them while grilling. Resting them for a minute after cooking helps them stay juicy. Enjoy your perfectly cooked shrimp!
Pro Tips
- Marinate Wisely: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors, but don’t exceed 2 hours to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Perfect Grill Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high to achieve a nice sear on the shrimp without overcooking them.
- Skewer Technique: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to avoid burning on the grill.
- Watch the Cook Time: Cook the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side; they should turn pink and opaque but be careful not to overcook, as this can cause a rubbery texture.
Variations
Spicy Version
If you want a kick, add more red pepper flakes. You can also mix in a spicy sauce. I love using sriracha or a homemade hot sauce. Start small, then taste. You can always add more heat if you like.
Herb Variations
Switching up the herbs can change the flavor. Try cilantro or thyme instead of parsley and basil. Cilantro adds a fresh taste, while thyme gives it warmth. You can mix herbs too! Experiment until you find your favorite combo.
Citrus Alternatives
Lemons are great, but other citrus fruits work well too. Lime brings a zesty twist, and orange adds sweetness. You can use lime juice and zest instead of lemon. For orange, use juice for a sweeter flavor. Don’t be afraid to play with these flavors!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After cooking, let the shrimp cool down. Place any leftovers in air-tight containers. This keeps them fresh and stops odors. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Always label your containers with the date to track freshness.
Freezing Instructions
Want to save some shrimp for later? You can freeze marinated shrimp. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour until firm. Then, transfer the shrimp to freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat shrimp, use low heat. A skillet works well. Add a splash of olive oil and heat slowly. This keeps them from getting rubbery. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, checking often. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
FAQs
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
You should marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes. This time lets the flavors soak in well. However, do not let them sit for more than 2 hours. If you wait too long, the shrimp can get mushy. The acid in the lemon juice breaks down the proteins too much if left too long.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first. The best way is to put them in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can run them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes. This will help you use them right away in your recipe without losing flavor.
What to serve with lemon herb grilled shrimp?
Lemon herb grilled shrimp pairs great with several sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad or fragrant rice. You can also add grilled vegetables for color and taste. These sides balance the shrimp’s bright flavor and make a complete meal.
Is it safe to eat shrimp that was left out?
No, it’s not safe to eat shrimp left out for too long. Cooked shrimp should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that, bacteria can grow and make you sick. Always store leftover shrimp in the fridge in an airtight container to keep it safe.
This post shared the essentials to make flavorful lemon herb grilled shrimp. We covered key ingredients and how to prepare them. I explained marinading, grilling, and tips for great texture.
Remember to experiment with spices and herbs for a twist. Serve with sides like salad or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish at your next gatherin
