These easy grilled prawns are packed with flavor! With garlic, zesty lemon, and just the right amount of chili, they make a tasty treat that everyone will love.
Grilling these prawns is a breeze! I love serving them with a fresh salad or some warm bread. They’re perfect for sunny days and outdoor gatherings! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prawns: I recommend using large, fresh prawns for this recipe. If fresh is not available, frozen prawns are a great alternative. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but start with less as it’s more concentrated.
Red Chili: The red chili adds heat and color. You can substitute with a milder pepper like a bell pepper for less heat, or use crushed red pepper flakes for convenience.
Olive Oil: I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you want something lighter, feel free to use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
Butter: Adding butter at the end infuses great taste. If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply skip it or use a plant-based butter substitute.
How Do I Grill Prawns Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling prawns can be tricky because they cook quickly. Here are my tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Set your grill to medium-high heat. If it’s too hot, the prawns will cook too fast on the outside and remain raw inside.
- Watch the timing! Grill prawns for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque when done.
- Remove them from the grill as soon as they are cooked. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so it’s better to take them off just before you think they are done.
- Let them rest briefly before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them more flavorful!
Easy Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Prawns:
- 1 lb (450 g) large prawns, shelled and deveined (tails on)
- For the Marinade:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 tbsp butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time for marinating, along with around 10 minutes of grilling time. So in total, you will need about 30 minutes to have these tasty grilled prawns ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, sliced red chili, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade for your prawns.
2. Marinate the Prawns:
Add the shelled and deveined prawns to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to make sure each prawn is well coated. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.
3. Preheat Your Grill:
While the prawns are marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. It’s important to have a hot grill ready to cook the prawns evenly.
4. Grill the Prawns:
Once your grill is hot, place the prawns in a single layer on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they are done when they turn pink and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make the prawns rubbery.
5. Add Butter (Optional):
If you’re using butter, add it to the prawns during the last minute of grilling. This will melt and give the prawns an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the prawns to a serving dish. Spoon any remaining marinade or melted butter over the top for added taste. Finally, garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the grilled prawns immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy this tasty dish at your next gathering or as a quick weeknight dinner!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chili
Can I Use Frozen Prawns Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the frozen prawns before marinating. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you’re looking for a substitute for fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove, but keep in mind that the flavor may be less intense.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Prawns?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can add more slices of red chili or even include some red pepper flakes in the marinade for an extra kick. Just taste as you go so you can adjust to your preferred level of heat!
