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Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

This Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp is a flavor-packed, juicy, and aromatic dish that’s perfect for grilling season. Marinated in a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil, these shrimp develop a smoky, caramelized exterior while staying tender and succulent inside. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or in tacos, this quick and easy recipe is ideal for seafood lovers looking for a healthy, protein-rich meal with bold Mediterranean flavors.

  • Total Time: 3 hours (including marination)

Ingredients

  • Kosher salt (1 ½ tsp) – Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the shrimp.
  • Lemon zest (½ tsp) – Adds brightness and citrusy aroma.
  • Garlic (3 cloves, sliced) – Infuses the marinade with bold, aromatic depth.
  • Fresh basil (3 tbsp, chopped) – Provides a sweet, peppery taste.
  • Flat-leaf parsley (3 tbsp, chopped) – Adds freshness and mild bitterness.
  • Fresh oregano (1 tbsp, chopped) – Lends an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
  • Lemon thyme (1 tbsp, chopped) – Enhances the dish with a hint of citrus.
  • Olive oil (4 tbsp, divided) – Ensures moisture and rich flavor.
  • Extra large shrimp (2 lbs, 16-20 count, peeled and deveined, tail-on) – The star ingredient, perfect for grilling.
  • Skewers – Essential for grilling shrimp evenly.

  • For the Sauce:

    • Olive oil (1 tbsp) – Helps emulsify the sauce.
    • Lemon juice (½ lemon, juiced) – Adds acidity and freshness.
    • Red pepper flakes (½ tsp) – Introduces a slight kick of heat.
    • Cayenne pepper (pinch) – Enhances spice levels.
    • Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Balances and rounds out flavors.
    • Lemon wedges – Perfect for serving and adding extra citrus brightness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Marinade

  1. In a mortar and pestle, combine salt, lemon zest, and garlic. Pound until a paste begins to form.
  2. Add chopped basil, parsley, oregano, and lemon thyme. Continue pounding for about 5 minutes until a thick paste forms.
  3. Drizzle in 1 tbsp olive oil and grind together until a sauce-like consistency forms. Stir in the remaining 3 tbsp olive oil until fully combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

  1. Place shrimp in a large bowl and toss with ⅔ of the herb sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  2. Transfer the shrimp to a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Store the remaining ⅓ sauce in the fridge for serving.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

  1. Preheat the grill to high heat and lightly oil the grates.
  2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, piercing twice (through the larger and smaller part of the shrimp) to ensure stability.
  3. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn bright pink and opaque with a slight caramelization.

Step 4: Make the Finishing Sauce & Serve

  1. Whisk the remaining ⅓ sauce with 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Drizzle the sauce over the grilled shrimp and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 12 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Appetizer
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 223 per serving