Spicy Grilled Shrimp

Quick & Easy Spicy Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Looking for a simple and fast recipe to impress your guests during the holiday weekend? This spicy grilled shrimp recipe will be the star of your barbecue. Seasoned with garlic, coarse salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper, this dish brings bold flavors while keeping the shrimp moist with olive oil. It’s an easy, tasty dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe

✔ Quick to Make – Just 15 minutes of prep and 5 minutes on the grill!
✔ Bold Flavor – The smoky paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper provide a perfect punch.
✔ Versatile – Great for BBQs, weeknight meals, or meal prepping.
✔ Adjustable Spice – You can make it as mild or spicy as you prefer!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  

• Cook Time: 5 minutes
  

• Total Time: 20 minutes
  

• Servings: 6
  
  

Ingredients

• 1 large clove garlic
  

• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  

• 1 teaspoon paprika
  

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  

• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  

• 8 lemon wedges (for garnish)
  
  

Tip: For a smoky twist, swap cayenne for chipotle powder.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to medium heat, around 350-400°F. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Seasoning

In a small bowl, crush garlic and salt together to form a paste. Add paprika, cayenne, olive oil, and lemon juice, mixing until fully combined.

Tip: Add lemon zest or a touch of cumin for extra flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Toss the shrimp in the seasoning paste, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Tip: Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10-15 minutes for a more flavorful result.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp on the grill (or skewers). Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and pink.

Tip: Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they are done to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer the shrimp to a platter and garnish with lemon wedges for an added citrus boost. Serve immediately while hot.

Tip: For added richness, drizzle with melted garlic butter.

Chef’s Tips & Tricks

• Spice Level Control: Adjust the amount of cayenne for a milder dish. You can also replace it with sweet paprika for less heat.
  

• Prevent Dryness: Olive oil helps lock in moisture, so coat the shrimp well.
  

• No Grill? You can cook the shrimp in a grill pan on the stovetop or broil them in the oven.
  

• Make It a Meal: Serve the shrimp over rice, a fresh salad, or in tacos for a complete dish.
  
  

Suggested Sides to Serve with Spicy Grilled Shrimp

Fresh Sides:

• Garden salad with a citrus dressing
  

• Mexican street corn (Elote)
  

• Grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus)
  
  

Perfect Pairings:

• Garlic butter rice
  

• Coconut cilantro lime rice
  

• Warm tortillas (great for shrimp tacos!)
  
  

Drink Pairings:

• Classic margarita
  

• Refreshing mojito
  

• Cold beer (lager or IPA)
  
  

For a festive touch, try Noche Buena Ponche, a sweet and creamy drink that complements your holiday meal.

FAQs

How do I peel and devein shrimp?

To peel shrimp, begin by removing the shell starting at the legs, then gently pull it off. Next, use a small knife to make a shallow cut along the back to reveal and remove the dark vein. This process ensures your shrimp are clean and ready to cook.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To control the spice, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper for a milder flavor. Alternatively, if you prefer more heat, add a little extra cayenne or even substitute with hot chili powder. For a gentler heat, replace cayenne with sweet paprika.

How long should I grill shrimp?

Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and pink. Shrimp cook very quickly, so be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough and rubbery if left on the grill too long.

What are some good side dishes to serve with spicy grilled shrimp?

Spicy grilled shrimp goes well with sides like garlic butter rice, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or roasted potatoes. For drinks, consider serving a refreshing margarita or mojito to balance the bold flavors of the shrimp.

Where can I find fresh shrimp for this recipe?

Fresh shrimp can typically be found at your local grocery store or by searching for a grocery store near me. For a wider selection, try visiting an international supermarket, where you may find different types of shrimp for your recipe.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?

To prevent shrimp from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before cooking. Avoid moving the shrimp around too much while grilling. For an easier grilling experience, consider using a grill basket for seafood, which helps keep everything in place. If you're looking for fresh seafood, Super King Market is a great place to shop for high-quality options.

Final though

In conclusion, this spicy grilled shrimp recipe is a perfect addition to any gathering, offering bold flavors and a quick, easy preparation process. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress your guests. If you need fresh shrimp for this recipe, visiting your local grocery store will provide the best options. For a wider selection of ingredients, an international supermarket near you can offer unique varieties and fresh produce to elevate your dish.

By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious meal in no time. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy version, this dish is fully customizable to suit your taste. So, next time you’re looking for a flavorful and quick seafood dish, remember this easy grilled shrimp recipe. Don’t forget to check out your nearest supermarket for all the ingredients you need to make it a success!