Grilling shrimp is one of the quickest and most flavorful ways to enjoy this delicious seafood. Whether you’re a grilling pro or just starting out, learning how to grill raw shrimp properly will elevate your meals and impress your guests. In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process-from prepping your shrimp to grilling tips that guarantee juicy, tender results.
Why Grill Shrimp?
Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs marinades beautifully, making it perfect for grilling. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, giving shrimp a smoky, slightly charred flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, grilling is a healthy cooking method that keeps shrimp succulent without adding unnecessary fats.
Step 1: Choose the Right Shrimp
For the best grilling experience, buy fresh shrimp on the day you plan to cook them. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Opt for jumbo or colossal shrimp (16/20 count is ideal) because they’re easier to handle on the grill and less likely to dry out.
Step 2: Prep Your Shrimp
– Peeling and Deveining: You can grill shrimp with or without shells, but peeling them (leaving the tail on for presentation) allows marinades to penetrate better and makes eating easier. Use a small knife to devein by cutting along the back and removing the dark vein.
– Marinating: A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper works wonders. You can also add herbs like oregano or spices like smoked paprika for extra flavor. Marinate shrimp for about 15-30 minutes-too long can start to cook the shrimp in the acid.
Step 3: Skewer Your Shrimp
Threading shrimp onto skewers makes grilling easier and helps them cook evenly. Use wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning, or metal skewers for durability. Pack the shrimp tightly but not squished, which helps with flipping and prevents overcooking.
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350-450°F (175-230°C). Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking. A hot grill is key to getting that perfect sear and grill marks without overcooking.
Step 5: Grill the Shrimp
Place the shrimp skewers directly over the heat. Grill for about 1-2 minutes per side, turning once. Shrimp cook very fast, so keep a close eye on them. They’re done when they turn bright pink on the outside and opaque white inside. The shrimp should curl into a loose “C” shape-if they curl tightly into an “O,” they’re overcooked and may be rubbery.
Pro Tip: Sugar Trick for Perfect Char
Sprinkle a light dusting of granulated sugar on one side of the shrimp before grilling that side on the hottest part of the grill. This helps develop a beautiful caramelized color and enhances flavor without burning.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Grilled shrimp are best enjoyed right off the grill while still juicy and warm. Serve with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top, or pair with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Grilled Shrimp
– Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so timing is everything. Remove them from the grill as soon as they’re opaque and pink.
– Use Direct Heat: Grilling over direct medium-high heat ensures a quick sear and prevents drying out.
– Marinate Wisely: Avoid acidic marinades for too long; 15-30 minutes is enough.
– Skewer Tightly: This helps with flipping and even cooking.
– Oil the Grill: Prevents sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Grilling raw shrimp is straightforward and yields delicious results when you follow these simple steps. With a little preparation and attention to timing, you’ll have tender, juicy shrimp that are perfect for any occasion. Fire up the grill and enjoy!