Introduction
Grilled shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, providing a juicy and flavorful experience that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. The addition of grilled lemons enhances the dish, adding a bright, zesty note that pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp.
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: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy this simple yet indulgent grilled shrimp recipe, perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture
Melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the minced shallot, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Take the peeled and deveined shrimp and thread them onto skewers. Make sure to season them with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Then, brush the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of the prepared butter mixture for added flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it’s ready for cooking the shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Once the grill is preheated, add the shrimp skewers to it. Cook the shrimp, turning occasionally, until they are pink and opaque. This should take approximately 3-4 minutes. During the last 2 minutes of cooking time, add the halved lemons to the grill, cut side down.
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately. Drizzle the skewers with the remaining butter mixture and garnish with the grilled lemons and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Adjust Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. You can add more for a spicier dish.
Note 2: Skewer Options
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading the shrimp to prevent burning on the grill.
Note 3: Fresh vs. Dried Ingredients
For optimal flavor, use fresh garlic and parsley. If you are unable to find fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used, but the flavor will be less vibrant.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This grilled shrimp dish pairs well with sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt butter gently over medium heat to avoid burning. Stir occasionally until fully melted and fragrant.
Sautéing Aromatics
Add minced shallots and garlic to the melted butter, sautéing for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant. This process enhances the flavor base for the dish.
Seasoning
Add red pepper flakes, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste while sautéing. Seasoning at this stage layers flavor into the dish.
Threading Shrimp onto Skewers
Thread peeled and deveined shrimp onto skewers for even cooking and easier handling on the grill. Ensure to leave a little space between each shrimp.
Grilling Shrimp
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp skewers on the grill for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are pink and opaque.
Grilling Lemons
Place halved lemons cut side down on the grill during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This adds a smoky flavor to the lemons, enhancing their taste.
Serving
Serve the grilled shrimp immediately, drizzled with the remaining butter mixture, and garnish with grilled lemons and fresh parsley for added brightness and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before threading onto skewers.
What can I use instead of shallots?
If you don’t have shallots, you can substitute them with finely chopped onions, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How can I adjust the spice level?
You can increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes used based on your spice preference.
What’s the best way to know when shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
Can I use other herbs for garnish?
Yes, you can use other fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil if you prefer, though it will change the overall flavor profile.
Conclusion
This grilled shrimp recipe, infused with the flavors of garlic, shallot, and lemon, delivers a deliciously simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. The hint of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, balancing well with the richness of the butter. Pair this dish with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delightful.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Utilize the same shrimp recipe but serve it in soft corn tortillas with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema for a delicious taco night.
Lemon Garlic Pasta with Shrimp
Toss the grilled shrimp with cooked pasta, olive oil, and additional lemon juice for a light and flavorful main dish.
Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry
Add the grilled shrimp to a stir-fry with mixed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Shrimp Salad
Chop the grilled shrimp and combine it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pizza
Spread a pizza crust with garlic butter, top with grilled shrimp, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil for a unique twist on pizza night.
