Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a quick and flavorful seafood dish where juicy shrimp are marinated in garlic, olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then grilled to smoky perfection. It’s a go-to recipe for summer cookouts, easy weeknight dinners, or crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with bold garlic and lemon flavor
• Juicy, charred shrimp cooked in minutes
• Healthy, high-protein, and low-carb
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free adaptable
• Perfect for grilling season
• Works great as an appetizer, in tacos, or over rice and salad
• Minimal prep and quick cook time
• Elegant yet easy for entertaining
• Easy to scale for small dinners or large parties
• Adaptable to indoor grills or stovetop

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• olive oil
• garlic, minced
• fresh parsley, chopped
• lemon juice and zest
• salt and black pepper
• optional: chili flakes, paprika, or other herbs like basil or cilantro

directions

this recipe

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 20–60 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread shrimp onto skewers or place directly on grill grates.
5. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges or a drizzle of garlic oil.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 20–60 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
• Total Time: 40–70 minutes

Variations

• Add chili flakes for heat
• Use lime juice or orange zest for a citrus twist
• Swap parsley for cilantro or basil
• Finish with a garlic butter drizzle for richness
• Add honey and soy sauce for a sweet-savory version
• Cook on a stovetop grill pan or broil if grill is unavailable

storage/reheating

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until just warm
• Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months
• Do not overcook when reheating to prevent toughness

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before marinating.

Do I need to use skewers?

No, but they make grilling easier and more uniform.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead, but don’t exceed 60 minutes.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default. Add chili flakes or cayenne for heat.

What size shrimp should I use?

Large or extra-large shrimp (16–20 count per pound) grill best and don’t overcook.

Can I grill shrimp without shells?

Yes, peeled shrimp cook faster and absorb more flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this?

With rice, pasta, tacos, over salads, or as an appetizer.

Is garlic grilled shrimp healthy?

Yes—high in protein, low in carbs, and full of antioxidants from garlic and lemon.

Can I use a different oil?

Olive oil is ideal, but avocado oil or grapeseed oil also work.

How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

Grill just until they turn opaque and curl into a “C” shape, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Conclusion

Garlic Grilled Shrimp is a deliciously simple and impressive dish perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavor, quick prep, and tender texture, it’s a summer grilling favorite and an easy addition to your weeknight rotation. Fire up the grill and enjoy these juicy, garlicky bites today.

Print