Spicy Lemon Cajun Grilled Shrimp Recipe
These spicy grilled shrimp are infused with a zesty lemon and cayenne pepper paste, making them a flavorful and quick-cooking option perfect for BBQ parties and summer dinners. The shrimp cook in just minutes on a medium-hot grill, delivering a spicy, smoky, and tangy taste that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 large clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Main
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 wedges lemon, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Paste: Crush the garlic and coarse salt together in a small bowl using a fork until it forms a rough paste, releasing the garlic's flavor and softening its texture.
- Mix the Marinade: Add paprika and cayenne pepper to the garlic paste, then stir in olive oil and lemon juice until the mixture forms a smooth, flavorful paste.
- Coat the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl and toss with the garlic-cayenne paste, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking and to help achieve beautiful grill marks on the shrimp.
- Grill the Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn opaque and have nice char marks, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving dish, garnish with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus touch, and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they will become tough and rubbery; they are done as soon as they turn opaque and firm.
- For added flavor, marinate the shrimp in the paste for 15-30 minutes before grilling but avoid marinating too long as the acid can start to cure the shrimp.
- Use medium heat on the grill to prevent charring the shrimp too quickly while ensuring they cook through properly.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
