Grilled spicy shrimp is a tasty dish that packs a punch! These shrimp are marinated in zesty spices and grilled to perfection, giving them a nice smoky flavor.
They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a fun barbecue with friends. I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon and some rice—so good, you’ll be asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are key for this dish. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp work well; just ensure they’re fully thawed. You can also use shrimp without tails if you prefer.
Olive oil: This adds richness to the shrimp. For a different flavor, you can swap it for avocado oil or melted butter.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even just chili powder can work. Adjust cayenne to control the spice—go for less if you’re sensitive!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley makes a good substitute, or just skip it altogether!
How Do You Ensure the Shrimp Don’t Overcook?
A common challenge with shrimp is getting the timing right. They cook quickly, so keeping an eye on them is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your grill well before adding shrimp for even cooking.
- Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done.
- Consider using a thermometer; shrimp are perfectly cooked at 120°F (49°C).
With these points in mind, your grilled spicy shrimp should come out perfectly tasty every time! Enjoy!
Grilled Spicy Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes for cooking. Including marinating, set aside about 30-45 minutes to let those flavors soak in. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty weekend barbecue.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to get them nice and clean. Once rinsed, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is important to help the marinade stick!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and fresh lime juice. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and looks smooth.
3. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to your marinade and toss them gently until they’re all nicely coated in flavor. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes. This helps the shrimp soak up all those spicy, zesty flavors!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp are marinating, hit the grill or grill pan and preheat it over medium-high heat. This ensures a perfect sear when you add the shrimp.
5. Skewer the Shrimp (Optional):
If you prefer, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. This makes it easier to manage them on the grill and helps keep them from falling through the grates. If you use wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
6. Grill the Shrimp:
Once the grill is hot, carefully place the shrimp on it. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with those lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook; nobody likes rubbery shrimp!
7. Finish and Garnish:
After grilling, remove the shrimp from the grill and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. You can serve them right off the skewers or place them on a platter.
8. Serve:
Enjoy your grilled spicy shrimp immediately, with lemon wedges on the side. A little squeeze of lemon adds a lovely brightness that pairs perfectly with the spices!
Now you’re all set to enjoy a flavorful, smoky dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Happy grilling!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using them. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry after thawing for best results.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes! If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also omit them entirely, or substitute them with milder spices like paprika to keep the flavor without the heat.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Spicy Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them over rice or quinoa, with a fresh salad, or alongside grilled vegetables. You can also serve them in tortillas for spicy shrimp tacos!
