This Grilled Spicy Shrimp dish is bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp marinated in zesty spices, then grilled to perfection for that nice smoky taste. It’s simple yet oh-so-delicious!
Every bite of these shrimp is a little flavor party in your mouth! I serve them with a squeeze of fresh lime. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra just to enjoy later. 🌶️🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but you can use smaller shrimp if that’s all you have. If you prefer a different protein, try scallops or chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Olive oil: This adds healthy fat and richness. You could use avocado oil or any neutral oil instead. If looking for a unique flavor, consider sesame oil for an Asian twist.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smokiness. If unavailable, regular paprika or chili powder can work. For heat, adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance or omit it for a milder dish.
Fresh herbs: Cilantro adds a nice freshness. If you’re not a fan, swap for parsley or omit altogether. A squeeze of fresh lime is essential for brightening the flavors!
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling shrimp seems easy, but there’s a method to achieve that perfect texture. Here are some tips to make sure yours are juicy and not overcooked:
- Make sure shrimp are peeled and deveined, which makes eating easier and allows for better marinade absorption.
- Marinate for at least 20 minutes, but don’t exceed 1 hour, as the acid in lime juice can start to cook the shrimp.
- Keep the grill at medium-high heat; too low will steam them, and too high will char them before they’re done inside.
- Cook shrimp briefly, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. When they curl up, they’re usually ready!
These tips will help you master the grill and serve up fantastic shrimp every time. Enjoy your meal! 🌟
Delicious Grilled Spicy Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients for Grilled Spicy Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as desired)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon or lime wedges for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
Time Estimate:
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-60 minutes for marinating, plus 8-10 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll need around 30-80 minutes, depending on the marinating time you choose.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade that will coat the shrimp.
2. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the marinade. Gently toss them so that each shrimp is evenly coated with the mixture. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 20 minutes. For a bolder flavor, you can let them marinate for up to an hour.
3. Preheat Your Grill:
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes so they don’t burn on the grill.
4. Skewer the Shrimp:
Once the shrimp are marinated, it’s time to thread them onto skewers. Place about 4-5 shrimp on each skewer, making sure to leave a little space between each one. This allows them to cook evenly.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Put the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and have nice, slightly charred grill marks. Be careful when turning to avoid breaking the shrimp!
6. Serve the Shrimp:
Once done, remove the shrimp from the grill. Transfer them to a serving plate and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for added brightness. This enhances the flavors beautifully!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon or lime wedges on the side. These grilled spicy shrimp are delicious with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your spicy, smoky, and flavorful grilled shrimp! They are perfect for a summer cookout or any time you’re craving something zesty and delightful.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure they are completely thawed before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use any neutral oil, like canola or avocado oil. For a unique twist, you could even use sesame oil, especially if you’re leaning towards an Asian flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them again to avoid a rubbery texture.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also add extra chili powder for flavor without the heat, depending on your taste preference!