Grilled spicy shrimp is a quick and tasty dish that’s sure to impress! The shrimp gets a fun kick from spices and a smoky flavor from the grill, making it simply irresistible.
Whenever I make this, I feel like a backyard chef! I love serving it with a cool dipping sauce or over a fresh salad. It’s perfect for summer cookouts or a cozy dinner any time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best results. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps to keep the shrimp moist. You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil if that’s what you have. Both perform well on the grill!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, but you may want to add a touch of liquid smoke for that barbecue taste. Adjust cayenne pepper based on how spicy you want it!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or chives make a great substitute. Either option will still add freshness.
How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling shrimp may seem tricky, but it’s pretty straightforward once you’ve got the basics down. Here’s how to ensure they cook just right:
- Marinate for at least 15 minutes. It helps to infuse the flavors, but don’t over-marinate as it can make the shrimp mushy.
- Preheat your grill. A medium-high temperature is perfect, helping to achieve those nice char marks.
- Use skewers! If using wooden ones, soaking them in water prevents burning. Metal skewers are a great, reusable option too.
- Watch the cooking time. Shrimp cooks quickly, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Once they turn opaque and form a “C” shape, they’re done!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled shrimp that are flavorful and juicy. Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to grill. You’ll spend some time marinating the shrimp for maximum flavor, but don’t worry—most of that time is chill time in the fridge! All in all, you can have this quick dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Pour in the olive oil, and then add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will be your zesty marinade that packs a punch!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add your shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they’re covered completely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This resting time helps the shrimp soak up all those tasty flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to get the grill nice and hot so you can get those beautiful grill marks on the shrimp. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Skewer and Grill the Shrimp:
Once your shrimp are marinated and the grill is hot, thread the shrimp onto the skewers. Make sure they’re close together but not crowded. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn opaque and have nice char marks—just remember not to overcook them!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, carefully remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro over the top for freshness, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. You can enjoy these shrimp on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Enjoy your flavorful grilled spicy shrimp, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them first. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Serve With Grilled Spicy Shrimp?
This shrimp dish is great on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it over rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. It also pairs wonderfully with a cool dipping sauce or grilled vegetables on the side.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook them as they may become tough.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, definitely! You can decrease the amount of cayenne pepper for less heat or leave it out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, if you love spice, feel free to increase the amount to suit your taste!
