Get ready for a tasty treat with grilled spicy shrimp! These little shrimp are mixed with spices, giving them a kick that’s just right. Grill them up for a smoky flavor!
There’s something so fun about watching them sizzle on the grill. I like to serve mine with a refreshing salad or some rice. They’re perfect for summer cookouts! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for grilling as they hold up well to high heat. If fresh shrimp are hard to find, frozen shrimp work too—just make sure they’re thawed first. You could also use scallops or chicken if you’re in the mood for a change!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used, but you’ll miss the smoky taste that complements the shrimp. Adjust the amount of cayenne to control the heat level, too!
Olive Oil: It’s great for marinating, but feel free to use other oils. Avocado oil is another good choice, known for its high smoke point. I usually stick with olive for its flavor and health benefits.
Cilantro vs. Parsley: I love using fresh cilantro for its vibrant flavor, especially with seafood. If you’re not a fan, go for parsley—it also works well!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Shrimp?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Marinating Time: Let the shrimp soak up the marinade for at least 15 minutes. More time means more flavor!
- Watch the Heat: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Too high, and you risk burning the shrimp. Too low, and they won’t cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Watch them closely!
- Serving Tip: Squeeze lemon juice right after grilling for a refreshing zing. The bright flavor pairs perfectly with the spicy shrimp!
With these tips, you’ll have juicy, flavorful grilled shrimp that everyone will love! Enjoy them as part of a meal or on their own.
Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon (plus lemon wedges for serving)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for prep and marination, plus around 10 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to enjoy delicious grilled spicy shrimp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until you have a nice, smooth marinade that smells great!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. If you have time, letting them sit for up to an hour will deepen the flavors.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes so they don’t burn on the grill!
4. Skewer the Shrimp:
If you like, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easier grilling. This step is optional but can make flipping them on the grill a breeze!
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp on the grill and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They are ready when they turn pink and have lovely grill marks. Just be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough if grilled too long!
6. Finish with Lemon:
Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the grill and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over them for a burst of flavor.
7. Plate It Up:
Arrange the shrimp on a plate over a bed of lettuce leaves if using, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for a lovely touch of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the shrimp hot, with lemon wedges on the side for extra goodness. They make a fantastic main dish, a fun appetizer, or can be tossed into salads and tacos!
Enjoy your flavorful and smoky grilled spicy shrimp! 🌟
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker results.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! You can substitute regular paprika, but you’ll miss out on the smoky flavor. Adding a touch of liquid smoke could mimic that depth if you have it. Adjust the other spices as needed to suit your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet to maintain their tenderness; avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make shrimp rubbery.
Can I Make This Recipe on a Grill Pan?
Yes, a grill pan works great! Preheat it on the stove over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking instructions. You’ll still get those delicious grill marks and smoky flavor!
