Grilled BBQ Shrimp: A Delicious Recipe for Perfect Summer Grilling

Grilled BBQ shrimp is a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. The smoky, charred flavor of the shrimp combined with a tangy barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. This dish has its roots in coastal regions, where fresh seafood is abundant and grilling is a beloved cooking method. Over the years, grilled BBQ shrimp has become a staple in many households, celebrated for its delightful taste and satisfying texture.

People love grilled BBQ shrimp not only for its incredible flavor but also for its convenience. It cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a feast for the senses. As someone who enjoys cooking and sharing delicious meals with friends and family, I can confidently say that grilled BBQ shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if using)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, BBQ sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. 2. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. The marinade should have a nice balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. 3. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce.

Marinating the Shrimp

4. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. 5. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring that each piece is well coated. 6. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors even more.

Preparing the Grill

7. While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing red. 8. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they have soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Skewering the Shrimp

9. After the shrimp has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. 10. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, depending on their size. Make sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking. 11. Discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with the raw shrimp.

Grilling the Shrimp

12. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill grates. 13. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they start to turn pink and opaque. 14. Carefully flip the skewers using tongs and grill for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. The shrimp should be fully cooked and have nice grill marks.

Serving the Grilled BBQ Shrimp

15. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a minute. 16. Transfer the skewers to a serving platter. 17. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. 18. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp just before eating.

Tips for Perfect Grilled BBQ Shrimp

– **Choosing Shrimp:** Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for grilling, as they hold up better on the skewers and have a satisfying bite. – **Marinating Time:** While 30 minutes is sufficient, marinating for a longer period allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the shrimp. – **Grill Temperature:** Make sure your grill is hot enough before adding the shrimp. This helps to sear the shrimp quickly, locking in moisture and flavor. – **Don’t Overcook:** Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. – **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add herbs and spices to the marinade to suit your taste.

Pairing Suggestions

– These grilled BBQ shrimp are fantastic served with a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad. – You can also serve them over a bed of rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal. – For a fun twist, try serving them in tacos with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy your delicious grilled BBQ

Conclusion:

In summary, this Grilled BBQ Shrimp recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game and impress their friends and family. The combination of succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty BBQ sauce creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you serve it as a main dish alongside a fresh salad, or as an appetizer skewered on toothpicks for a fun gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a splash of citrus juice to the marinade for a refreshing twist, or try pairing the shrimp with grilled vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor profile—spicy, sweet, or smoky, the choice is yours! I encourage you to give this Grilled BBQ Shrimp recipe a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you might have tried. Cooking is all about creativity and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on it. Happy grilling!

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