Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is like a burst of sunshine on your plate, tempting you with its zesty aroma and juicy, succulent texture. Picture this: plump shrimp marinated in a vibrant blend of herbs and citrus, grilled to perfection until they are slightly charred and oh-so-delicious.
As you take that first bite, the tangy lemon dances on your taste buds, while the fresh herbs provide an aromatic backdrop that transports you straight to a summer barbecue. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
- This incredible Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I vividly remember the first time I made Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp for my family. Their delighted reactions were priceless, as they raved about how it tasted like something from a fancy restaurant.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure they are deveined and peeled for easy cooking.
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Fresh Lemons: The zest and juice bring brightness; choose firm lemons for maximum flavor.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness of the dish.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; crushed or minced works best to release their flavor.
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Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Basil): These herbs provide freshness; chop them finely for even distribution throughout.
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Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a delightful heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; always use freshly cracked pepper for maximum flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk until blended well.
Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and mix gently until all pieces are coated evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb those yummy flavors.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot. You want it sizzling when the shrimp hits the grates!
Grill the Shrimp: Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them first). Place them on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over grilled shrimp before serving. Enjoy them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce!
Garnish if Desired: For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle additional chopped herbs over the top before serving.
Now you have a delightful Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe that will impress everyone around your table!
You Must Know About Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
- This showstopping Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the shrimp first; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. While they soak up the goodness, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures a lovely char on your shrimp while keeping them tender inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preference; dill or cilantro can shine here too. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will bring some heat if you like a spicy kick. Remember, cooking is all about personal expression, so get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking and drying out those succulent morsels.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
- This professional-quality Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
It was one sunny afternoon when my friends came over for a barbecue, and I decided to whip up this dish. As soon as they tasted it, their eyes lit up like they had just discovered gold! They demanded I teach them how to make it—now we have a tradition of grilling together every summer.
FAQ
What can I serve with Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp?
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or a fresh garden salad for a light meal. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or toss it into pasta for an exciting twist on classic dishes.
How long should I marinate shrimp?
Marinate your shrimp for at least 30 minutes but not longer than 2 hours; otherwise, they may become mushy from the acidity in the lemon juice. Aim for that sweet spot where flavor meets perfect texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just remember to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling. Thawing under cold running water is quick and effective, helping you get dinner on the table faster without sacrificing quality.
What is the best way to know when shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp cook quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque—usually about 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill. Overcooking will lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!
Conclusion for Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
In summary, mastering Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp involves perfect timing and bold flavors that wow everyone at your table. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning—a true crowd-pleaser! So fire up that grill and let’s make some unforgettable memories (and meals) together!
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of citrus with aromatic herbs, creating a mouthwatering experience perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. The plump shrimp, marinated in a zesty blend of lemon and herbs, are grilled to perfection, resulting in a beautifully charred and tender bite. Serve these vibrant shrimp as an impressive appetizer or a main course alongside your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers (soaked if wooden) and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
- Remove from grill and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
