Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a tasty dish with fresh shrimp cooked on the grill. It’s quick to make and has bright lemon flavor with a hint of garlic, perfect for summer or any grill day.
I like squeezing a little more lemon over mine before eating. It makes each bite even more zesty and fun!
For a healthy twist, serve with a side of veggies or over a light salad. It’s simple, fresh, and ready in minutes!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Lemon: I love using bright lemon juice and zest for a fresh pop of citrus. If lemons aren’t available, lime works well for a slightly different tang. Just avoid bottled lemon concentrate—it’s not as vibrant.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a bold, aromatic flavor. I always crush and mince mine to release the oils. If you’re out, garlic powder is okay—use about half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Raw Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp give that perfect texture. If frozen, thaw completely and pat dry for better grilling. Chicken or scallops can work as substitutes if you prefer other seafood or meat.
Olive Oil: Good-quality olive oil helps everything turn nicely on the grill and adds a mild richness. If you don’t have it, vegetable or avocado oil are good alternatives without flavor loss.
How do I get evenly grilled shrimp without overcooking?
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get a good sear quickly. Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside is cooked.
2. Skewer or use a grill basket to keep the shrimp flat. Turn frequently—about every 2 minutes—to ensure even cooking on all sides.
3. Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and curl into a loose ‘C’ shape—about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove promptly to avoid overcooking and tough meat.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 10 minutes grilling + optional 10 minutes resting = 30 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
2. Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Shrimp
Thread shrimp onto skewers or use a grill basket. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Serve
Remove the shrimp from the grill. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with lemon wedges.