Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp are tasty and easy to make. The shrimp are marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, then grilled until they are juicy and slightly smoky. Perfect for a quick, fresh meal.
I like to think I’m a fancy chef when I grill shrimp outside. It always makes me smile seeing them turn pink and smell so good!
If you want, serve these with a side of rice or veggies. They are light, healthy, and perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Lemon: I use fresh lemon juice to brighten the shrimp’s flavor. A squeeze of lemon right before serving really makes it pop! You can swap with bottled lemon juice if fresh isn’t available, but fresh is best for a vibrant taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a warm, pungent kick. I love smashing garlic cloves for a milder flavor, or using garlic powder in a pinch. Just be careful not to burn the garlic when grilling, as it turns bitter.
Shrimp: Large, peeled, deveined shrimp work perfectly here. For a healthier option, try scallops or chicken. Fresh or frozen, just be sure shrimp are thawed and patted dry for even cooking.
Olive Oil: I brush the shrimp with olive oil to prevent sticking and help the garlic and lemon stick. You can swap with grapeseed or avocado oil—they have high smoke points and neutral flavor.
How do I grill shrimp without it sticking or overcooking?
Make sure your grill is hot before adding shrimp—about medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. Turn the shrimp as soon as grill marks appear, about 2-3 minutes per side, to ensure even cooking without drying out.
- Ensure shrimp are dry and coated with oil before grilling.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Turn only once to avoid tearing the shrimp.
- Remove from grill as soon as they turn opaque and pink.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 5 minutes, Total: 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the marinade
Mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
2. Marinate the shrimp
Add shrimp to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the shrimp
Thread shrimp onto skewers or place directly on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Serve the shrimp
Remove from grill and let rest for a minute. Serve warm with extra lemon if desired.
