Grilled spicy shrimp are a tasty treat that’s full of flavor! These succulent shrimp are coated in a zesty spice mix, making them perfect for summer cookouts or quick dinners.
Honestly, I can’t resist grabbing a few straight off the grill! Serve them with a squeeze of lemon and a side of rice for a meal that’ll make you smile. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp work best for grilling. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp is a great substitute. Just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking!
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness and helps the spices stick. Avocado oil can be used instead if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Spices: Smoked paprika and chili powder bring warmth and depth. If you need a change, use regular paprika or add a dash of chipotle powder for a smokier flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust this for your heat preference. If you want a milder dish, skip it altogether or use a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
Fresh Lemon Juice: This brightens up all flavors. If you don’t have fresh lemons, lime juice works well too!
How Do I Get My Shrimp to Grill Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp is simple but requires attention to timing to keep them tender. Here’s how to nail it:
- First, marinate your shrimp for at least 15 minutes. This is key to bringing flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful char marks.
- If using skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Grill shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink. Overcooking can make them tough.
With these tips, your grilled spicy shrimp will be juicy and full of flavor. Serve them hot for the best experience!
How to Make Grilled Spicy Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 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 lemon juice
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to grill. You’ll need to let the shrimp marinate for 15 to 30 minutes, but the hands-on time is quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to create a spicy marinade that will make your shrimp pop with flavor.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them well to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes. This step is important for delivering delicious flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
Once the grill is hot, you can either thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy handling or place them directly on the grill grates. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and have beautiful char marks, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a lovely touch. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy!
Your flavorful grilled spicy shrimp are now ready to be devoured! They’re perfect as an appetizer, a topping for rice, or stuffed into tacos. Enjoy your meal! 🌟
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed before marinating. A quick way to thaw them is by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, avocado oil or grapeseed oil are great alternatives. Both have high smoke points and will work well in this recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To enjoy them later, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, or you can add them to salads or pasta dishes cold!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes! If you prefer a milder shrimp dish, you can reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out entirely. For more heat, consider adding more cayenne or including a dash of your favorite hot sauce in the marinade.
