Grilled Spicy Shrimp are tasty little delights that pack a punch! The shrimp get coated in a spicy mix, grilled to perfection, and are great for any barbecue.
Just imagine the sizzling sound when they hit the grill! I love serving them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Who can resist a bit of spice with a side of fun? 🍤🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for grilling as they hold up well to the heat. If shrimp are hard to find, consider using scallops or even firm fish like swordfish or salmon. Fresh is ideal, but frozen shrimp works too; just defrost them first.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika will work. Adjust cayenne pepper for your spice preference; you can also swap it for chili powder for a different kick.
Olive oil: This is great for marinating but can be replaced with avocado oil or any neutral oil. Both options will still enhance the shrimp without overpowering their flavor.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice elevates the dish. If lemons aren’t available, lime juice makes a fabulous substitute or try white vinegar for tanginess.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Shrimp Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp can be easy, but timing is crucial to avoid rubbery results! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always grill over medium-high heat, as shrimp cook quickly.
- Place shrimp on skewers to keep them from falling through the grill grates. Aim for 4-5 per skewer.
- Grill for only 2-3 minutes per side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque to know they’re done.
- Remove them promptly from the grill as they continue cooking from residual heat.
Remember, it’s better to undershoot cooking time slightly than to overcook them. Happy grilling!
Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-30 minutes to marinate. Once marinated, grilling takes about 5-6 minutes. Overall, plan for about 40 minutes to have a delicious grilled shrimp dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. This tasty blend will give the shrimp their spicy kick!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, making sure each shrimp is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes (or up to 1 hour if you want more flavor).
3. Get the Grill Ready:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Skewer the Shrimp:
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, placing about 4-5 shrimp on each skewer. Leave a little space between each shrimp to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and develop beautiful char marks. Keep an eye on them; overcooking can make them tough!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a lovely touch. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze of lemon juice on top.
Enjoy these spicy, smoky, and juicy grilled shrimp as a delightful appetizer or paired with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also substitute it with a milder spice like paprika or chili powder, which will add flavor without the extra heat.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to use it, add the shrimp and let them marinate as directed.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Spicy Shrimp?
These shrimp pair wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them in tacos with a dollop of sour cream and salsa for a fun twist!
