Introduction
Grilling is one of the most delightful ways to prepare shrimp, enhancing their natural flavors while adding a smoky touch. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy medium shrimp, paired with vibrant lemon and aromatic herbs. Ideal for a summer cookout or an elegant dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
½ cup unsalted butter
1 shallot, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or more, to taste
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 ½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 lemons, halved
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir in shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes until fragrant, about 2 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Brush with 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Add skewers to grill, and cook, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Add lemon halves to grill, cut side down, during the last 2 minutes of cooking time.
5. Serve immediately, drizzled with remaining butter mixture, garnished with grilled lemons and parsley, if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Butter Mixture
Melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced shallot, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture and cook until fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Preparing the Shrimp Skewers
Take the peeled and deveined shrimp and thread them onto skewers. Season the shrimp with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Use a brush to apply 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture to the shrimp.
Step 3: Preheating the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure it’s hot enough for cooking.
Step 4: Grilling the Shrimp
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Cook the shrimp, turning occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque, which should take approximately 3-4 minutes. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the lemon halves to the grill with the cut side down.
Step 5: Serving
Serve the grilled shrimp immediately. Drizzle the remaining butter mixture over them and garnish with the grilled lemon halves and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Adjusting Spiciness
Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste and preferred level of spiciness.
Note 2: Skewer Choice
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning.
Note 3: Lemon Grilling
Grilling the lemons with the shrimp enhances their flavor, making them a delicious accompaniment.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a high-heat cooking method used to quickly cook the shallots and garlic in butter, allowing their flavors to become fragrant without burning. This technique enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Grilling
Grilling involves cooking the shrimp on a grill at medium-high heat. This method gives the shrimp a nice char and smoky flavor while ensuring they cook quickly and evenly.
Skewering
Skewering shrimp not only makes them easier to handle on the grill but also allows for even cooking, ensuring that all sides get direct heat. It also helps to add a visual appeal when serving.
Drizzling
Drizzling the remaining butter mixture over the cooked shrimp adds moisture and a burst of flavor at the end. This technique enhances the dish’s richness and taste.
Garnishing
Garnishing with grilled lemon and parsley not only adds color and presentation but also a delightful balance of flavor with the brightness of the lemon and freshness of the parsley.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and skewering.
What can I substitute for shallots?
You can substitute shallots with minced onion or even a mix of garlic and a little onion for a similar flavor profile.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
You can modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. For a milder dish, use less, or omit it entirely.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of on the grill?
Yes, you can broil the shrimp in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and broil for about 3-4 minutes, turning once, until they are pink and opaque.
What side dishes pair well with grilled shrimp?
Grilled shrimp pairs well with a fresh salad, rice pilaf, quinoa, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This shrimp skewers recipe, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and lemon, is perfect for a savory, quick meal. The combination of butter, shallots, and a hint of spice elevates the dish, making it a delightful option for any occasion. Grill the shrimp to perfection and serve them with fresh parsley and grilled lemons for an extra touch of brightness.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Shrimp Tacos
Combine grilled shrimp with fresh cabbage, avocado, and a tangy lime sauce wrapped in warm tortillas for a delicious taco night.
Garlic Butter Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with the remaining garlic butter mixture from the shrimp recipe, adding vegetables and parmesan for a comforting dish.
Spicy Shrimp Salad
Serve grilled shrimp over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing, light meal.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Pair the shrimp with skewers of grilled seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms brushed with olive oil and herbs.
Seafood Paella
Incorporate the shrimp into a flavorful paella with rice, saffron, and a medley of seafood for a festive and hearty dish.
