If you’re looking to elevate your summer cooking game, grilled shrimp is a delicious and versatile option. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a tasty meal, there’s something special about that smoky flavor combined with juicy shrimp. This article brings together 20 grilled shrimp recipes that will satisfy your culinary curiosity and delight your taste buds.
Grilling shrimp doesn’t have to be complicated; with the right recipes and techniques, you can achieve perfect results every time. These recipes showcase a variety of marinades, spices, and cooking methods, ensuring that you’ll find something to suit your taste. From simple recipes for beginners to more adventurous options, you’ll discover plenty of ways to enjoy this summertime favorite.
1) Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers
To start, soak wooden skewers in water. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
Next, prepare your marinade. Combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Rinse the shrimp under cold water. If you prefer, you can remove the shells, but leave the tails on for easy handling. Thread the shrimp onto the soaked skewers.
Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 20 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
For extra flavor, grill lemon halves alongside the shrimp. Squeeze the grilled lemon juice over the skewers before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers hot off the grill!
2) Honey Sriracha Grilled Shrimp
Honey Sriracha Grilled Shrimp is a tasty mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s a great dish for summer barbecues and gatherings.
To start, heat your grill to medium-high, around 400°F. Next, prepare the sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan. Add fresh ginger and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Mix in smoked paprika, ground cloves, honey, Sriracha, and lime juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
Marinate the shrimp in this sauce for about 30 minutes. This lets the flavors soak into the shrimp, making them even more delicious.
Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred.
Serve the Honey Sriracha Grilled Shrimp hot. They go well with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. This dish is sure to be a hit at your next outdoor event.
3) Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a fresh and vibrant option for your next meal. Marinate the shrimp in a mix of lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and olive oil. Let the flavors soak in for about 20-30 minutes.
Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and slightly charred. This helps to lock in the tangy and spicy flavors.
To assemble the tacos, you can use either single or double tortillas. Start with a layer of shredded cabbage for crunch. Add 3-4 grilled shrimp on top.
Finish with a drizzle of chipotle crema and a wedge of lime on the side. These tacos are perfect for a quick, flavorful meal. Enjoy the bright combination of chili and lime with every bite!
4) Basil Pesto Grilled Shrimp
Basil Pesto Grilled Shrimp is a delicious and easy recipe. Fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil make a vibrant pesto.
Start by blending these ingredients into a smooth paste. Marinate the shrimp in the pesto for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Heat your grill to medium-high. Skewer the shrimp, placing four or five on each skewer. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp should be pink and slightly charred.
Serve the shrimp hot, and drizzle with extra pesto if desired. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts. It pairs well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
5) Tandoori Grilled Shrimp
Tandoori grilled shrimp offers a burst of Indian flavors that you will love. Start by making a marinade with Greek yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala, lemon juice, and Kashmiri red chili powder.
Marinate the shrimp in this mixture for at least 30 minutes. Soak your wooden skewers in warm water to prevent them from burning.
Heat your grill to around 400°F. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers. Place the skewers on the grill.
Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Make sure they are well caramelized and tender. Use a grill basket if you prefer.
Remove the skewers, let the shrimp rest for a minute, and enjoy your delicious tandoori grilled shrimp.
6) Cajun Grilled Shrimp with Avocado Salsa
Start by preparing your shrimp. Pat them dry and put them in a bowl. Add olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Mix until the shrimp are well coated.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the shrimp directly on the grill. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are bright pink and fully cooked.
For the avocado salsa, gather your ingredients. You’ll need tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, and avocado. Combine them in a bowl. Add lime juice and cilantro for extra flavor. Mix everything together until well combined.
Once your shrimp are ready, remove them from the grill. Serve them hot with the avocado salsa on the side. This combination of spicy shrimp and fresh salsa is perfect for a summer meal.
7) Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp with Feta Cheese
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp with Feta Cheese is a tasty and healthy dish. You start by cleaning and patting dry some large shrimp.
Next, make a marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh thyme, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
After marinating, skewer the shrimp onto pre-soaked wooden skewers. Place them on a grill over direct heat. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink.
When the shrimp is cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. The tangy feta complements the juicy, flavorful shrimp perfectly.
8) Coconut Curry Grilled Shrimp
Coconut curry grilled shrimp is a flavorful dish that combines spices and creamy coconut milk. Start by placing the shrimp in a zip-top bag with the marinade.
Let it sit in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
To prepare the marinade, mix coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, and a bit of ginger.
To grill, skewer the shrimp and cook on high heat.
Make sure the grill is preheated for even cooking.
Serve with a cilantro chutney for extra flavor. This chutney can be made by blending cilantro, lemon juice, and some garlic.
The result is shrimp that’s tender with a touch of sweetness and spice.
Enjoy your coconut curry grilled shrimp with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
9) Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa
Grilled shrimp with mango salsa is a vibrant and tasty dish that combines the sweet and spicy flavors of mango salsa with perfectly grilled shrimp.
To make the mango salsa, start by chopping mangoes, red onions, cilantro, and jalapenos. Mix them together with lime juice. This salsa adds a fresh and tangy taste to the shrimp.
For the shrimp, marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let them soak up the flavors for at least an hour.
When ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high. Skewer the shrimp and place them on the grill for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, or they will become tough and rubbery. Once done, serve the grilled shrimp alongside the mango salsa, and garnish with fresh chive stems for added flavor.
This dish is perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings. The sweet mango salsa contrasts nicely with the savory shrimp, making it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe any time you want a refreshing meal.
10) Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp
Garlic butter grilled shrimp offer a delicious blend of flavors. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, prepare your shrimp by tossing them in olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper.
Melt butter in a small saucepan and mix in minced garlic. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, and brush them with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure they’re evenly coated.
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cooks very quickly.
For added flavor, grill some lemon halves alongside the shrimp. Squeeze the grilled lemon juice over the shrimp before serving. This gives a tangy contrast to the buttery garlic.
Serve your garlic butter grilled shrimp hot. They pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy this flavorful dish at your next barbecue or family dinner.
11) Jamaican Jerk Grilled Shrimp
Jamaican Jerk Grilled Shrimp is packed with bold flavors. The jerk seasoning brings a spicy kick, while the grill gives the shrimp a smoky taste.
To prepare, marinate the shrimp in Jamaican jerk seasoning for at least 20 minutes. Use a combination of allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. These key ingredients provide the signature jerk flavor.
Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the shrimp directly on the grates or use skewers for easier handling. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.
Serve the grilled shrimp with lime wedges and chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh touch to the spicy dish.
For an extra burst of flavor, pair the shrimp with grilled pineapple. The sweet pineapple balances the heat of the jerk seasoning nicely.
Consider serving the shrimp with rice, beans, or a green salad. These sides complement the rich and spicy flavors well.
Enjoy this flavorful dish at your next barbecue or casual dinner. Jamaican Jerk Grilled Shrimp is sure to be a hit with its vibrant taste and appealing presentation.
12) Beer Marinated Grilled Shrimp
Beer marinated grilled shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. Start by preparing a marinade with your favorite beer, minced garlic, and a bit of hot sauce if you like.
Place the shrimp in a sealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour the beer mixture over the shrimp. Seal the bag, squeezing out as much air as possible, and turn it a few times to coat the shrimp well.
Marinate the shrimp in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes but no more than 4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld nicely without making the shrimp too mushy.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the shrimp on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.
Serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors infused by the beer and garlic. This simple recipe is sure to become a favorite at your summer cookouts.
13) Teriyaki Grilled Shrimp
Teriyaki grilled shrimp is a delicious and easy dish to make. Start by preparing a teriyaki sauce. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of vinegar in a saucepan. Heat it until it thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
Marinate your shrimp in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak into the shrimp. Be careful not to marinate for too long, as it can toughen the shrimp.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Thread the shrimp onto skewers. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first to avoid burning.
Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Baste the shrimp with the reserved teriyaki sauce for extra flavor. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of freshness and crunch.
14) Thai Peanut Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Thai Peanut Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish.
Start by making the marinade. Mix together coconut milk, yellow curry powder, and some seasoning. Let the shrimp soak in this mixture for about 20 minutes. If you’re using bamboo skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning on the grill.
Next, prepare the peanut sauce. Combine powdered peanut butter, teriyaki sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice wine vinegar, and lime juice in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, then add chopped scallions. This sauce pairs perfectly with the grilled shrimp.
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, about 4 shrimp per skewer. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Once the shrimp are cooked, serve them with the peanut dipping sauce. These skewers are great as appetizers or as part of a main meal. They offer a burst of Thai-inspired flavors that your guests will love.
15) Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple
Grilled shrimp with pineapple is a tasty mix of sweet and savory flavors. First, prepare a marinade with sweet chili sauce, lime juice, cilantro, and sea salt. Let the shrimp soak in the marinade for 20-30 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350º-400ºF. Thread the shrimp and pineapple onto skewers. Alternate between shrimp and pineapple pieces to ensure even cooking.
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn a pinkish-orange color. Make sure the shrimp is opaque and the pineapple has grill marks.
Brush the shrimp and pineapple with additional marinade or glaze while grilling to enhance the flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or your favorite grilled vegetables. Enjoy the delicious combination of juicy pineapple and tender shrimp.
16) Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Lime Sauce
Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Lime Sauce is a flavorful dish perfect for summer barbecues.
To prepare, mix together Cajun seasoning, lime juice, and olive oil in a resealable plastic bag. Add the shrimp, coat well, and marinate in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Skewer the shrimp, if desired, to make grilling easier.
Grill the shrimp for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
To make the lime sauce, blend ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lime juice, and cilantro until smooth.
Drizzle the lime sauce over the grilled shrimp before serving. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.
17) Grilled Shrimp Scampi
Grilled Shrimp Scampi is a delicious and simple recipe that brings together the flavors of the sea with fresh, tangy, and buttery notes.
Start by marinating your shrimp in a mix of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Preheat your grill to high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, piercing each shrimp near the tail and head. Make sure to discard any remaining marinade.
Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Grill them for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn opaque and slightly charred.
While your shrimp are grilling, prepare the dipping sauce. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and chopped parsley.
Once the shrimp are ready, remove them from the grill and serve immediately with the warm lemon-garlic butter sauce. The combination of grilled shrimp and the rich, tangy sauce creates an irresistible dish.
18) Grilled Shrimp with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled shrimp with chimichurri sauce is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ. The chimichurri sauce, made from fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, adds a zesty kick to the shrimp.
First, make the chimichurri sauce. Combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
Prepare your grill to high heat, around 450°F. Thread shrimp onto skewers, alternating heads and tails, to keep them secure and tightly packed.
Grill the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side with the lid open. The shrimp should be pink and firm.
Once cooked, drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the grilled shrimp. Serve immediately for the best taste. This simple yet delicious recipe is sure to impress your guests.
19) Grilled Shrimp Alfredo
Grilled Shrimp Alfredo combines smoky grilled shrimp with creamy fettuccine Alfredo. Start by seasoning your shrimp with a blend of garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add a splash of lemon juice and olive oil to enhance the flavors.
Preheat your grill pan to medium heat. Place the shrimp on the grill, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until pink and heated through.
For the Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a few minutes. Whisk in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a low boil.
Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Toss the cooked fettuccine noodles in the Alfredo sauce.
Combine the grilled shrimp with the pasta and sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. Serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
20) Grilled Shrimp and Grits
Grilled Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish with a mix of smoky, savory flavors. Start by marinating the shrimp. Use olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices. Let the shrimp sit in the marinade for about an hour in the fridge.
While the shrimp marinates, begin cooking the grits. Boil a mixture of water and chicken broth. Slowly add the grits, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. Let them simmer until they reach a creamy consistency.
Once the grill is ready, heat it to medium-high. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, and place them on the grill. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until opaque.
Add butter, heavy cream, and cheese to the grits for extra richness. Serve the grilled shrimp on top of the grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dish showcases a perfect blend of grilled seafood and comforting, creamy grits.
Health Benefits of Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp offers numerous health benefits, notably their rich nutritional content and their role as a low-calorie protein source. Including grilled shrimp in your diet can help you meet your dietary needs while keeping meal choices tasty and satisfying.
Nutritional Value
Grilled shrimp is packed with essential nutrients. A serving of shrimp provides a significant amount of vitamin B12, which supports nerve function and the production of red blood cells. It’s also a good source of iodine, which is crucial for thyroid health.
Shrimp contains selenium, an antioxidant that protects your cells from damage, and zinc, which supports your immune system. Additionally, it has a substantial amount of omega-3 fatty acids, known for their heart health benefits.
In just one serving, you get a combination of nutrients that contribute to various body functions. Despite being low in calories, shrimp is high in these essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutrient-dense food.
Low-Calorie Protein Source
Shrimp is an excellent source of low-calorie protein. A typical serving of shrimp contains about 20 grams of protein but only roughly 84 calories. This makes it a great option for those looking to manage their weight or build muscle without consuming excess calories.
Protein is vital for your muscles, skin, and other tissues. It plays a critical role in the repair and building process of body tissues. Including shrimp in your diet can ensure you get high-quality protein.
Moreover, shrimp is low in carbs and fats, mainly providing lean protein. This balance makes it ideal for those following diets like keto or paleo. Whether you are grilling shrimp in olive oil or seasoning them with herbs, you get a delicious meal that supports your dietary goals without extra calories.
Grilling Techniques for Perfect Shrimp
Grilling shrimp perfectly requires a good marinade and careful attention to your grill’s temperature and time. Follow these steps to achieve delicious, juicy shrimp every time.
Preparation and Marinating
Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. You can leave the tails on for extra flavor. Marinate the shrimp to enhance the taste. Olive oil, garlic powder, and oregano make a simple, delicious marinade. Lemon juice or vinegar adds some tang.
Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. Try not to marinate for much longer to avoid overpowering the natural shrimp flavor. Preheat your grill to ensure it’s hot and ready when your shrimp are done marinating.
Ideal Grilling Time and Temperature
Preheat your grill to 375 to 450°F. This temperature range ensures the shrimp cook quickly without becoming rubbery. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill shrimp directly on the grates or use skewers for easier handling.
Grill the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side. Look for a bright pink color and firm texture. Overcooking can make the shrimp tough. Remove them immediately from the grill and serve hot.
By following these steps, your grilled shrimp will be flavorful and perfectly cooked. Enjoy your grilling!
