Introduction
Are you a seafood lover looking for a healthy and tasty way to cook shrimp? Look no further than grilling! Grilled shrimp is a popular summer dish that’s easy to make and boasts a natural smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue party or simply craving a quick dinner, grilled shrimp is a flexible recipe that can be paired with any side dish or sauce. Plus, compared to other cooking methods like boiling or pan-frying, grilling shrimp adds a grilled flavor and crunchy texture that elevates its taste. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to grill shrimp step by step, provide you with some tasty marinades, share our tips and tricks, and give you some popular pairings.
Step-by-Step Guide
Prepping the shrimp
Before you begin grilling, you need to prep the shrimp. Start by cleaning the shrimp thoroughly, removing any unwanted tails, legs, or shells. Next, devein the shrimp by cutting a shallow slit along the back and removing the black vein. Once the shrimp is cleaned and deveined, you can start preparing for marinade. Mixing the marinade before adding the shrimp ensures that they all get an even coating.
Prepping the grill
Before placing the shrimp on the grill, you need to prepare the grill. Start by cleaning the grill grates to remove any leftover debris from the previous cooking session. Then, apply oil to the grates to prevent the shrimp from sticking. Preheat the grill to medium heat for about 10 minutes to make sure it’s hot enough for grilling.
Grilling the shrimp
Once the shrimp is prepped and the grill is ready, it’s time to start cooking. You can either place the shrimp directly on the grill or skewer them. If you prefer skewering, make sure the skewers are soaked in water for about 15 minutes to stop them from catching fire. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes each side until they are pink and opaque. Shrimp that is overcooked turns rubbery and tough, so ensure that you avoid this. Signs of doneness include firmness and the shrimp taking on a subtle smokiness.
Different Marinade Recipes
Garlic Butter Marinade
If you’re looking to add more flavor to your grilled shrimp, try this Garlic Butter Marinade. This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of shrimp and butter, and it’s a great way to add more flavor and fat to the dish. Here’s what you need and how to prepare it:
- 1 stick of unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice until well combined.
Honey Lime Marinade
For sweet and tangy shrimp, try this Honey Lime Marinade. This recipe adds a sweet and sour element to the shrimp, enhancing the natural flavor. Here’s what you need and how to prepare it:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Stir all the ingredients together in a small bowl until evenly mixed.
- Add the marinade to the shrimp and marinate for 30 minutes or up to an hour.
Tips and Tricks
Skewering the Shrimp
Skewering is a popular method of grilling shrimp because it’s easy and fast. When skewering, using two skewers instead of just one will mean less potential for spinning on the grill. For easy removal, always line your skewers up in the same direction.
Preventing sticking
To prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill, use oil, non-stick spray, or foil on the grates before placing the shrimp on the grill. A well-oiled grill with reduce the likelihood of shrimp sticking.
Even Cooking
To ensure even cooking, make sure that all the shrimp are roughly the same size. Basting with marinade throughout the grilling process and frequent flipping will also add an even cook, as well as enhance the flavor.
Quick and Easy Recipe
For a simple grilled shrimp recipe with minimal steps and ingredients, try the following recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 lb. large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Clean shrimp and put them in a bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil on top and season with salt and pepper.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers or place them directly on the grill.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side and remove from grill.
Note:
This recipe can be prepared quite quickly, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a last-minute potluck.
Pairings
Drinks
When it comes to pairing drinks, grilled shrimp goes great with a variety of beverages. Try white wine, beer, or your favorite cocktail.
Side dishes
Grilled shrimp can be paired with almost anything, and often people choose rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. If you’re keen on a more carb-heavy option, try a fresh brioche bun for sliders.
Sauces
Finally, dipping sauces or dressings can add a variety of flavors to grilled shrimp. Popular options include spicy mayonnaise, tartar sauce, or cocktail sauce.
Comparison with other cooking methods
When it comes to cooking shrimp, there are several methods to choose from, whether it’s boiling, frying, or grilling. But grilling shrimp comes with added benefits.
- Grilling imparts a smoky flavor, whereas boiling reduces the natural flavor and texture of the shrimp.
- Grilling adds dimension and a sense of crunch to the texture of the shrimp.
- Grilling can also be a convenient way to cook shrimp, saving you time, and minimal large pots or multiple pans.
Conclusion
Now that you have a clear understanding of grilling shrimp, you can experiment with different marinades, sauces, and pairings to find your favorite flavor combination. By following the simple steps and tips outlined in this article, you’re sure to impress your guests or family with grilled shrimp that is delicious, healthy, and easy to make.