BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Introduction

When it comes to summer grilling, few things are as mouthwatering as BBQ grilled prawns. The combination of juicy, succulent prawns with the bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and chilli creates an irresistible dish that is perfect for any outdoor gathering. Whether you’re hosting a family BBQ, preparing a seafood feast for friends, or simply craving a quick and tasty meal, BBQ grilled prawns are sure to impress.

Prawns are incredibly versatile and cook quickly, making them ideal for grilling. When paired with the aromatic combination of garlic, zesty lemon, and spicy chilli, these prawns take on a tantalizing flavor profile that will have your guests coming back for more. The smoky char from the BBQ enhances the natural sweetness of the prawns, while the garlic, lemon, and chilli infuse them with a rich and vibrant taste. This recipe is a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering a simple yet satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll explore the steps to creating perfect BBQ grilled prawns, offer tips for grilling seafood, and provide variations and serving ideas that will elevate your next BBQ. Whether you are a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Quick and Easy to Prepare: This dish takes only 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a last-minute BBQ or a weeknight dinner.
• Bold and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chilli creates a complex, vibrant flavor profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the prawns.
• Healthy and Light: Prawns are low in calories and packed with protein, making this dish a light yet satisfying option for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preferences by adding more or less chilli, and feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family BBQ, an elegant dinner party, or a beach picnic, BBQ grilled prawns are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes (including marinating time)
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on the size of the prawns)
• Servings: 4 servings (adjustable depending on the number of prawns per person)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 200-300 calories per serving (based on serving size and specific ingredients)

Ingredients for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

To make BBQ grilled prawns with garlic, lemon, and chilli, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These ingredients bring together the flavors of the sea, citrus, spice, and savory richness. The best part? These ingredients are easy to find and often already stocked in your kitchen!

Key Ingredients:

• Prawns (Shrimp): Fresh, large prawns (or shrimp) are ideal for this recipe. Choose prawns that are firm, shiny, and have a pleasant, ocean-fresh scent. They can be bought either shelled or with the shell on, depending on your preference.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are used to infuse the prawns with a savory, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon and spicy chilli.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to adding brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the prawns and the garlic.
• Chilli (Red or Fresh): Fresh red chillies add a vibrant kick to the prawns, while dried red flakes can also be used for a more intense heat. You can adjust the amount of chilli to suit your desired spice level.
• Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil is the base for the marinade, helping to coat the prawns and carry the flavors of the garlic, lemon, and chilli.
• Fresh Parsley or Coriander: Fresh herbs add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Parsley is the traditional choice, but coriander (cilantro) offers a different flavor profile for a more unique twist.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the prawns and ensuring that the flavors are balanced and well-rounded.

How to Prepare BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Prawns:

• If you’ve bought prawns with the shell on, peel them, leaving the tail intact for a beautiful presentation. You can also devein the prawns by making a shallow slit along the back and removing the black vein. Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• If you prefer, you can leave the shells on during grilling for added flavor, but make sure to devein them if that’s the case.

1. Make the Marinade:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, the zest of one lemon, and the juice of half the lemon.
• Add in 1-2 finely chopped fresh red chillies (or adjust to your spice preference). If you like it spicy, you can also include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.

1. Marinate the Prawns:

• Add the prawns to the marinade, tossing them gently to coat evenly. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating them for up to an hour in the fridge will enhance the flavors even more.
• If you’re short on time, don’t worry—the prawns will still be delicious with a shorter marinating time.

1. Preheat the Grill:

• Preheat your BBQ or grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

1. Grill the Prawns:

• Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers for easy grilling. If you don’t have skewers, you can grill them directly on the grates or use a grilling basket.
• Place the skewered prawns on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the prawns turn pink and opaque, and are lightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them, as prawns can become rubbery if grilled for too long.
• You should see a nice char and slight crisp on the edges of the prawns, while the inside remains tender and juicy.

1. Serve and Garnish:

• Once the prawns are cooked, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
• Squeeze the remaining half lemon over the prawns for an extra burst of freshness and acidity.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or coriander and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns

1. Choose the Right Prawns:

• Fresh prawns are key to a delicious grilled dish. When possible, opt for wild-caught prawns as they tend to have a richer flavor. Make sure the prawns are firm, translucent, and have a fresh sea scent. Avoid prawns that are slimy or have a strong fishy smell.

2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor:

• While 10-15 minutes of marinating is enough to infuse the prawns with flavor, you can marinate them longer (up to an hour or two) for a deeper taste. Just don’t marinate too long, as the acid from the lemon juice can start to break down the texture of the prawns.

3. Don’t Overcook the Prawns:

• Prawns cook very quickly on the grill. Overcooking them will make them tough and rubbery. As soon as the prawns turn pink and opaque, they’re done. They should be slightly firm to the touch but not mushy.

4. Use High Heat:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get a nice char on the prawns. High heat will give the prawns a smoky flavor while sealing in their natural juices.

5. Experiment with Other Spices:

• While garlic, lemon, and chilli are a fantastic trio, feel free to experiment with other spices. A dash of paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, or dried oregano can add even more depth to the flavor.

6. Grill in a Basket or on Skewers:

• Using skewers or a grilling basket helps keep the prawns from falling through the grill grates. If you prefer, you can use individual skewers for each prawn or thread multiple prawns onto a larger skewer.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

BBQ grilled prawns with garlic, lemon, and chilli can be served as the star of the meal or as part of a larger spread. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dish:

• Serve with Fresh Salad: Pair your grilled prawns with a light salad of mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. This refreshing side balances out the heat of the prawns.
• Serve with Grilled Veggies: Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the prawns beautifully. Their smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the garlicky, citrusy prawns.
• Tasty Sides: For a more substantial meal, serve the prawns with sides like garlic butter pasta, roasted potatoes, or couscous. A side of freshly baked bread is also perfect for dipping in the flavorful marinade.
• Perfect with a Drink: BBQ grilled prawns are ideal with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, pair them with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.

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Conclusion

BBQ grilled prawns with garlic, lemon, and chilli are a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of summer. The juicy prawns, smoky char, and bright, zesty flavors make this dish a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ or gathering. Whether you’re grilling for family, friends, or just a quiet evening at home, these prawns will elevate your meal and leave everyone asking for the recipe.

With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious feast with BBQ grilled prawns that will have everyone coming back for seconds!