Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Save this recipe on:

Juicy, tender, and bursting with bold, savory flavor, Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp is a go-to dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard barbecue, this recipe brings restaurant-quality seafood right to your table. The key lies in the marinade—a rich blend of garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and just the right touch of heat that transforms simple shrimp into a taste sensation.

Grilled to perfection, these shrimp are lightly charred on the outside while staying succulent and juicy inside. The smoky aroma from the grill enhances the citrusy-herb marinade, making each bite incredibly flavorful. Serve them as a main course with rice, pasta, or salad—or slide them onto skewers for an impressive appetizer.

---

Ingredients for Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

---

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure the marinade is well combined to evenly coat the shrimp later.

---

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 1 hour to prevent the citrus from breaking down the texture of the shrimp.

---

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F / 190–200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.

---

Step 4: Thread and Grill

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easy handling, or place them directly on the grill grates. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and have grill marks. Avoid overcooking as shrimp become rubbery quickly.

---

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove shrimp from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

---

Storage Instructions

To preserve the freshness and flavor of your Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp, follow these simple storage guidelines:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Let them cool completely before sealing.
• Freezer: If you’d like to freeze, place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking.

---

Estimated Nutrition

(Per 4 oz serving — about 5–6 shrimp)

• Calories: 170
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Sodium: 480mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What size shrimp should I use?

Large or jumbo shrimp are best for grilling since they stay juicy and are easier to handle on skewers.

Can I cook this indoors without a grill?

Yes! Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stove. Cook over medium-high heat for similar results.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

No more than 1 hour. Acidic marinades can break down the shrimp and make them mushy if left too long.

Should I peel the shrimp before grilling?

Yes, for this recipe, peel and devein the shrimp so the marinade fully coats them and they’re easier to eat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the marinade and clean the shrimp ahead, but only marinate them up to 1 hour before grilling.

What’s the best way to skewer the shrimp?

Thread each shrimp through the tail and head ends so they lay flat and don’t spin on the skewer.

Are there substitutions for lemon juice?

Lime juice or a mild vinegar like white wine vinegar can work in a pinch, but lemon juice is best for flavor.

What sides pair well with grilled shrimp?

Serve with rice pilaf, garlic butter noodles, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: