Grilled Garlic Parsley Butter Shrimp – Juicy, Charred, and Bursting with Flavor
Introduction
Few dishes scream summer like Grilled Garlic Parsley Butter Shrimp. With smoky charred edges, juicy centers, and an aromatic garlic-herb butter glaze, these shrimp are the perfect way to elevate a warm-weather meal. Whether you’re using the grill or a stovetop grill pan, this dish is easy, fast, and loaded with bold Mediterranean flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is pure elegance with zero fuss. The shells and heads stay on for maximum flavor during grilling, and the garlic butter infusion makes every bite melt in your mouth. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners and impressive enough for entertaining. Plus, cleanup is minimal—always a win!
Ingredients
- 12 large shrimp or jumbo prawns, cleaned (shell and head on for flavor)
- 100 g (about 7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Drizzle of olive oil, for grilling
- Lemon slices, for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp aren’t cleaned yet, gently devein them while keeping the shells and heads intact. This gives them more flavor during cooking.
2. Make the Garlic Parsley Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This fragrant compound butter will be your flavor base.
3. Preheat the Grill
Heat your barbecue or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly brush the grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Shrimp
Generously brush each shrimp with the garlic parsley butter.
Place on the hot grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until pink, lightly charred, and just cooked through.
5. Serve
Transfer shrimp to a platter, drizzle with any remaining melted garlic butter, and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.
Tips for Success
- Use shell-on shrimp: It seals in moisture and adds flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook quickly! Remove as soon as they’re opaque and firm.
- Make extra butter: It’s fantastic drizzled on rice, grilled bread, or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These grilled shrimp are incredibly versatile. Serve them over rice, with a green salad, or alongside grilled vegetables. Want to build a full summer feast? Try these pairing ideas:
- This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage for a hearty side
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a crowd-pleasing addition
- This Blueberry Lemonade for a cool citrus contrast
- This Baked Brie Appetizer to start the meal off right
- These Easy Coconut Macaroons for a sweet tropical finish
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet with a bit of butter. Avoid microwaving, as it can toughen shrimp.
- Freezer: Best enjoyed fresh—grilled shrimp don’t freeze well once cooked.
Final Thoughts
These Grilled Garlic Parsley Butter Shrimp are proof that simple ingredients and smart grilling can yield restaurant-worthy results. Perfect for patio dinners, beachside picnics, or when you want something that tastes like summer.
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag @chefmaniac—we’d love to see your sizzling seafood success!
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