Grilled Spicy Shrimp is a tasty dish that’s quick to make! Juicy shrimp are coated in a zesty marinade that gives them a kick, making them burst with flavor after grilling.
This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue. I love serving them with a side of fresh salad or over rice. Trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “shrimp on the grill”! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for grilling due to their size and tenderness. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium shrimp will also work. Just adjust the grilling time slightly, as smaller shrimp will cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade and helps the spices stick to the shrimp. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a nice smoky depth to the dish. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work, but you can also add a dash of liquid smoke for that essence.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your shrimp. If you want to scale back the heat, consider substituting with a mild chili powder or leaving it out completely.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for brightness. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice or even a splash of vinegar can work as an alternative.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Shrimp?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can achieve that perfect char! Here’s what to focus on:
- Start by marinating the shrimp, which not only adds flavor but also helps keep them moist while cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a quick sear, which is vital for good texture.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water as mentioned. This prevents burning and keeps your shrimp from falling through the grill.
- Grill shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They cook fast, so watch for them to turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them tough!
Following these tips helps you achieve juicy, perfectly grilled shrimp every time! Enjoy your delicious grilled spicy shrimp!
Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook. You’ll need about 20-30 minutes for marinating to let those lovely flavors soak in. In total, set aside around 50 minutes for all the preparation and cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Marinade:
In a large bowl, pour in the olive oil and add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Stir everything together until you have a well-combined marinade. The smell will be fantastic!
2. Marinating the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade. Make sure all the shrimp are nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes. This time helps the shrimp absorb all those spicy flavors.
3. Prepping the Grill:
While the shrimp marinate, get your grill or grill pan ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat so you can achieve those perfect grill marks!
4. Skewering the Shrimp:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Then, thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
5. Grilling the Shrimp:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping them carefully. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque, and you see beautiful grill marks.
6. Serving the Shrimp:
Once grilled, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top for garnish, which adds a lovely touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your spicy grilled shrimp immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. They’re perfect as an appetizer or main dish at any cookout!
This Grilled Spicy Shrimp recipe is bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy every savory bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to completely thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to use avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Both will work well and add a delicious flavor to the marinade.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook them again, as this could make them tough.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before adding the shrimp. Marinating the shrimp for a longer time can also enhance the flavors!
