This Marinated Grilled Shrimp recipe is a symphony of bold flavors and succulent seafood that will transport your taste buds to a coastal paradise. With the zesty kick of fresh lemon juice, the warmth of paprika and cumin, and a hint of fiery cayenne pepper, these grilled shrimp are an irresistible delight. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Prep Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
Serves 4
INGREDIENTS:
Before you embark on this culinary journey, ensure you have the following ingredients at your disposal:
- 24 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (Italian flat-leaf is best)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these mouthwatering Marinated Grilled Shrimp:
- Craft the Marinade: Begin by creating a flavorful marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, and extra virgin olive oil. Season the marinade with a pinch of salt and pepper. This vibrant and aromatic mixture will infuse the shrimp with layers of taste.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place your large, peeled, and deveined shrimp in a large zip-lock bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the shrimp. Seal the bag securely, ensuring that the shrimp are well coated with the flavorful concoction. Give the bag a gentle shake to distribute the marinade evenly.
- Preheat the Grill: Before you begin grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure that the grill grates are clean and well-greased to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
- Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. This makes grilling easier and provides an appealing presentation. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
- Grill to Perfection: Once your grill is ready and your shrimp are threaded onto skewers, it’s time to start grilling. Cook the shrimp for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The high heat will create a slightly charred exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
- Serve and Savor: Carefully remove the grilled shrimp from the skewers and transfer them to a serving platter. The aroma of the freshly grilled seafood will have your senses tingling. Serve the shrimp while they are still warm, and be prepared to savor the fantastic flavors.
- Enjoy the Culinary Delight: Now, it’s time to indulge in this culinary delight. Each bite of these Marinated Grilled Shrimp bursts with a harmonious blend of tangy lemon, smoky paprika, and aromatic herbs. The gentle kick of cayenne pepper adds an exciting dimension to the dish.
Whether you’re serving these succulent shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or part of a seafood feast, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh ingredients and skillful grilling will elevate your dining experience to new heights. Enjoy the flavorful journey!
