If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect for any sunny gathering, this BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is a total game-changer. Juicy, tender prawns get a beautiful char from the grill, infused with the zesty brightness of lemon and the irresistible aroma of garlic. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, a delicate balance that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just diving into seafood grilling, this recipe is straightforward, full of personality, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and this recipe proves that simple, fresh components can create an extraordinary dish. Each ingredient plays a key role—olive oil adds richness, garlic brings warmth, and lemon lends a vibrant zing that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 1/2 pounds large prawns peeled and deveined with tails on: Freshness is crucial for the best texture and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: A light coating to help keep the prawns moist and add a subtle fruitiness.
- 4 cloves garlic minced: Garlic infuses a beautiful depth and savory punch to the marinade.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the dish with fresh citrus oils.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a tangy, refreshing acidity that balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Introduces a pop of color and an herby freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smoky warmth that enhances the grilled flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
- Lemon wedges for serving: To squeeze over the prawns for an extra burst of citrus zestiness right before you eat.
How to Make BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your grill to a medium-high temperature, ideally around 400°F. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. This step ensures you have a hot grill ready to give your prawns those signature char lines and smoky flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Prawns
Pat the prawns dry to help the marinade stick better. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour this fragrant mixture over your prawns in a large bowl. Toss well to coat every piece evenly with those delicious flavors—this simple marinade is the heart and soul of the BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe.
Step 3: Skewer the Prawns
Thread the prawns onto skewers to make flipping them on the grill easier and keep them perfectly intact while cooking. This also allows for even heat exposure on all sides, so each prawn is grilled to juicy perfection.
Step 4: Grill the Prawns
Lightly grease your grill grates with oil to prevent sticking, then place the prawn skewers on the grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a bright pink color, become opaque, and sport beautiful, delicate grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as prawns can become rubbery very quickly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once off the grill, transfer your prawns to a serving platter and add fresh lemon wedges. The zesty squeeze right before eating elevates the flavors and gives your dish that extra special touch.
How to Serve BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the prawns adds a bright dash of color and freshness. You can also toss in some finely chopped chives or a few red pepper flakes if you like a tiny bit of heat. Fresh lemon wedges on the side are essential—they let everyone customize their own citrus tang.
Side Dishes
These grilled prawns are perfectly complemented by a light, crisp salad or fluffy couscous. Grilled veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add vibrant color and texture contrasts. For a heartier option, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice to soak up any remaining juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your prawns on a bed of fragrant herbs or layered over warm flatbreads. Another crowd-pleaser is creating tropical seafood skewers by alternating prawns with chunks of pineapple and bell pepper. This BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is flexible enough to inspire your own presentation style at your next cookout.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover grilled prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure they cool down completely before sealing to maintain freshness without sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked prawns by laying them flat in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated with parchment paper to prevent clumping. They’ll keep well for up to three months, making for a convenient ready-to-grill snack or quick meal addition later on.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the prawns in a skillet over medium heat just until heated through, or pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can dry them out and affect their tender texture.
FAQs
Can I use shrimp instead of prawns in this recipe?
Absolutely! Shrimp work wonderfully in this BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe. Just be mindful of size differences and cooking times—smaller shrimp may cook more quickly.
How can I add some heat to this dish?
For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the marinade. It complements the smoky paprika and fresh lemon beautifully without overpowering.
What’s the best way to ensure prawns don’t stick to the grill?
Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before adding the prawns. Also, letting the prawns marinate with olive oil helps prevent sticking during cooking.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes! The marinade can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just add the prawns and marinate for about 15 to 30 minutes before grilling for best results.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?
Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes helps prevent them from burning when placed on the hot grill, so it’s definitely recommended for this BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that feels elegant but comes together with ease. It’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. I can’t wait for you to fire up your grill and enjoy every juicy, citrus-kissed bite of this fantastic dish with your friends and family.
Print
BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon recipe offers a perfectly charred, flavorful seafood dish bursting with fresh citrus and garlic. Marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon, smoked paprika, and herbs, these prawns are quickly grilled to juicy perfection. Ideal for summer barbecues or a light, elegant main course, they pair beautifully with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Ingredients
For the Prawns and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds large prawns, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400°F. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare the Prawns: Pat the prawns dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures even cooking.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Prawns: Place the prawns in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to coat all prawns evenly. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors while preparing the grill.
- Thread the Prawns: Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers. This makes turning the prawns on the grill easier and ensures even cooking.
- Grill the Prawns: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the prawn skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Grill until the prawns turn pink and opaque, developing light grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the prawns from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the prawns.
Notes
- Do not overcook the prawns as they can become rubbery very quickly.
- If you cannot find prawns, shrimp are an excellent substitute for this recipe.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
