Garlic Shrimp in Foil: Easy Recipe, Perfect for Grilling!

Garlic Shrimp in Foil: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly easy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering! Imagine succulent shrimp, infused with the pungent aroma of garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon, all steamed to perfection in their own little foil packets. The result? A tender, juicy, and utterly irresistible seafood experience that requires minimal cleanup.

While the exact origins of cooking seafood in foil are difficult to pinpoint, the technique has been used for centuries across various cultures. From Polynesian imu cooking to campfire meals enjoyed by explorers and pioneers, wrapping food in leaves or foil has always been a practical way to retain moisture and infuse flavors. Today, garlic shrimp in foil is a modern take on this classic method, offering a convenient and delicious way to enjoy fresh seafood.

But why do people adore this dish so much? It’s simple: the taste is phenomenal! The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a bright and savory sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. The foil packets lock in all the flavors, ensuring that every bite is bursting with deliciousness. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, garlic shrimp in foil is a winner for busy cooks who don’t want to compromise on flavor. The tender texture of the shrimp, cooked to perfection in its own flavorful juices, is another reason why this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a seafood sensation that will leave you wanting more!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your preference!)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best!)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed, please!)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always better!)
• 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pats
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)

Preparing the Garlic Shrimp Marinade:

Okay, let’s get started! The key to amazing garlic shrimp is a flavorful marinade. This is where all the magic happens, so don’t skip this step!

1. Mince the Garlic: First things first, mince those 6 cloves of garlic. I like to use a garlic press, but finely chopping them works just as well. The smaller the pieces, the more flavor they’ll release into the marinade.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine, and lemon juice. The wine adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with chicken broth or more lemon juice.
3. Add the Aromatics and Spices: Now, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Give everything a good whisk to combine all those delicious flavors.
4. Marinate the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the garlic marinade over the shrimp, making sure they’re all evenly coated. Gently toss the shrimp to ensure every single one is getting a good bath in that flavorful mixture.
5. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the shrimp marinate, the more flavorful they’ll become. But don’t marinate them for too long (more than 2 hours), as the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp and make them a little tough.

Assembling the Foil Packets:

Now for the fun part – creating our little foil packet flavor bombs! This is where we seal in all that goodness and let the steam do its thing.

1. Preheat Your Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) as well.
2. Prepare the Foil: Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12×12 inches each). If you’re using regular foil, you might want to double it up to prevent tearing.
3. Divide the Shrimp: Divide the marinated shrimp evenly among the four foil sheets. Spread them out in a single layer in the center of each sheet.
4. Add the Butter: Place 1 tablespoon of butter pats on top of the shrimp in each foil packet. The butter will melt and create a rich, flavorful sauce as the shrimp cook.
5. Seal the Packets: To seal the foil packets, bring the two long sides of the foil together and fold them over several times, creating a tight seal. Then, fold in the short sides to completely enclose the shrimp. Make sure the packets are sealed tightly to trap the steam inside.

Cooking the Garlic Shrimp:

Time to cook those little guys! Whether you’re grilling or baking, the cooking time is pretty similar. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

1. Grilling Instructions: Place the foil packets directly on the preheated grill grates. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the foil packets are puffed up. Be careful when opening the packets, as hot steam will escape.
2. Oven Instructions: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the foil packets are puffed up. Again, be cautious when opening the packets due to the hot steam.
3. Check for Doneness: The shrimp are done when they’re pink, opaque, and slightly curled. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery.

Serving and Enjoying:

The best part! Now it’s time to savor all your hard work. This garlic shrimp is delicious served in so many ways.

1. Open the Packets Carefully: Carefully open the foil packets, being mindful of the hot steam. I like to use a pair of tongs to hold the packet open while the steam escapes.
2. Garnish: Garnish the shrimp with extra chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This adds a pop of freshness and brightness to the dish.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the garlic shrimp immediately while it’s hot and juicy.
4. Serving Suggestions: This garlic shrimp is fantastic served with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a more substantial meal. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables would also be a great addition.
5. Enjoy! Dig in and enjoy the deliciousness! This garlic shrimp is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice it Up: If you like things extra spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the foil packets along with the shrimp for a complete meal.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
• Add a Splash of Cream: For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or half-and-half after the shrimp are cooked.
• Make it Keto-Friendly: Serve the garlic shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 250mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

Conclusion:

This Garlic Shrimp in Foil recipe is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. Why? Because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and cleanup. Seriously, who doesn’t love a delicious meal that practically cooks itself? The succulent shrimp, infused with the aromatic garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon, create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a dish that’s both elegant enough for a special occasion and simple enough for a busy weeknight.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize it to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some Parmesan or mozzarella over the shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy delight. Want to add more vegetables? Toss in some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the shrimp. The possibilities are endless!

Serving suggestions are just as flexible. I personally love serving this Garlic Shrimp in Foil over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s also fantastic with crusty bread for dipping – trust me, you won’t want to waste a single drop of that flavorful sauce! For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or grilled asparagus. You could even toss the cooked shrimp with pasta for a quick and easy shrimp scampi. Another great variation is to use different types of seafood. Try substituting scallops, mussels, or even chunks of fish for the shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a romantic date night. The foil packets make it incredibly convenient for camping trips or picnics too! Imagine enjoying this flavorful shrimp under the stars – pure bliss!

I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s so simple, so delicious, and so satisfying. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments with me – I’m always eager to see your culinary creations and hear your feedback. Let’s spread the joy of this amazing Garlic Shrimp in Foil recipe and inspire others to get cooking! So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!