Spicy Grilled Shrimp
Spicy Grilled Shrimp
If you’re craving a quick and flavorful seafood dish, Spicy Grilled Shrimp is a fantastic choice. The shrimp are marinated in a bold, zesty mixture of spices, garlic, and lime, then grilled to perfection, giving them a smoky, slightly charred flavor.
This dish is a great appetizer or main course, and it pairs well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply enjoying a delicious meal at home, these spicy grilled shrimp are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on for presentation)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to desired spice level)
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make:
Prepare the shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, leaving the tails on for a more elegant presentation. If you prefer, you can remove the tails, but they do help with grilling and give a nice look when serving.
Make the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
Marinate the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them well to coat in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the shrimp to a resealable plastic bag, and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour. For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the shrimp for up to 4 hours.
Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are ashy and hot. If you’re using a gas grill, set it to high heat.
Grill the shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure they are not crowded together. If you prefer, you can also grill the shrimp directly on the grill grates, using a grilling basket if necessary to prevent them from falling through. Place the skewers or shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough.
Serve the shrimp: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zing.
Chef’s Note: For an added twist, you can brush the shrimp with some additional marinade or a tangy glaze during the grilling process. If you’re looking for a smoky flavor, consider adding a few wood chips to the grill or using a grill pan with a lid. Pair the grilled shrimp with a refreshing dipping sauce like a spicy mayo or cilantro-lime aioli to enhance the flavors even further.
Nutrition Information (per serving, 4 servings total):
Calories: 220
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 175mg
Sodium: 380mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
This Spicy Grilled Shrimp recipe is an easy, flavorful way to enjoy seafood with a kick. It’s perfect for those who love bold flavors and want a quick, satisfying meal. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete and delicious dinner!