These grilled spicy shrimp are packed with flavor and a bit of heat that makes them super exciting! They’re quick to make, perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner.
I love serving them with some fresh lime and a side of rice. Just watch out – if you’re like me, you might find yourself reaching for one too many! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here. If you can’t find large ones, medium shrimp work too, but adjust the cooking time since they’ll cook faster. Fresh or frozen shrimp is fine; just ensure they’re thawed before marinating.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is a good substitute, but you might miss some smokiness. A dash of liquid smoke can also work if you’re out of smoked paprika.
Cayenne Pepper: This gives the shrimp their spicy kick. Adjust according to your heat preference. If you want it milder, use paprika or omit it altogether. For added flavor, try using a sweet chili sauce instead.
Fresh Lime Juice: It brightens the dish! If you’re out of limes, lemon juice can be a good alternative. I like to add extra lime wedges for serving to enhance the flavor right before eating.
How Do You Grill Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp requires quick cooking since they can become rubbery if overcooked. Here are some tips:
- Marinate for just 15-30 minutes; longer can break down the shrimp.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it’s hot before you add the shrimp for a good sear.
- Look for the color change: shrimp should turn from gray to pink. Timing is key – about 2-3 minutes per side.
- If using skewers, soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly grilled shrimp every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊
Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled spicy shrimp takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes, making the total time around 35-50 minutes. Quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and fresh lime juice. This blend of spices will create a tasty marinade for our shrimp.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them well to ensure each shrimp is coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for 15-30 minutes. This step helps the shrimp absorb all those delicious flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those nice grill marks and a good sear on the shrimp.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
If you like, you can thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling. Otherwise, just place them directly on the grill. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are slightly charred. Be sure not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if grilled too long!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, and serve immediately with lime wedges and your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your flavorful, smoky, and spicy shrimp!
Happy grilling! 🌟
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. To do this, place them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Alternatively, you can replace the cayenne with a sweet paprika for flavor without the heat. Feel free to adjust based on your taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet on low heat just until warmed through, being careful not to overcook them again.
What Sides Pair Well With Grilled Spicy Shrimp?
Grilled spicy shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad. You could also serve them with grilled vegetables or in tacos for a delicious meal!
