Grilled Prawns Garlic Lemon Chilli: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Grilled Prawns Garlic Lemon Chilli – just the name conjures up images of sun-drenched Mediterranean coasts and the tantalizing aroma of summer barbecues, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to paradise. Forget complicated marinades and hours spent in the kitchen; this dish is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and minimal effort.

While the exact origins of this particular combination are difficult to pinpoint, grilling seafood with garlic, lemon, and chilli has been a culinary staple across coastal regions for centuries. Think of the Spanish gambas al ajillo, the Italian scampi alla griglia, or even the fiery seafood dishes of Southeast Asia. Each culture brings its own unique twist, but the core principle remains the same: highlighting the natural sweetness of the seafood with bright, zesty, and spicy notes.

So, why do people adore grilled prawns garlic lemon chilli so much? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings. The combination of succulent prawns, fragrant garlic, tangy lemon, and a hint of chilli creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. The slight char from the grill adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish to another level. Plus, it’s a relatively healthy option, packed with protein and essential nutrients. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular feature on your summer menu!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Large Prawns (about 20-25), peeled and deveined, tails left on
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil, extra virgin
• 2 Lemons, one for juice, one for zest and garnish
• 1-2 Red Chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano, chopped (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Marinade:

Okay, let’s get started! The key to incredibly flavorful grilled prawns is a vibrant marinade. This one is packed with garlic, lemon, chili, and herbs – a real flavor explosion!

1. Mince the Garlic: Finely mince the garlic cloves. You want them as small as possible so their flavor really infuses the prawns. I like to use a garlic press, but a sharp knife works just as well.
2. Chop the Chilies: Carefully chop the red chilies. Remember to remove the seeds if you prefer less heat. I usually leave some seeds in for a nice kick. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling chilies!
3. Zest and Juice the Lemon: Zest one lemon using a microplane or fine grater. Be careful to only zest the yellow part, avoiding the white pith underneath, which can be bitter. Then, juice the same lemon. You should get about 2-3 tablespoons of juice.
4. Combine the Marinade Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, chopped chilies, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, chopped oregano (if using), smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the marinade generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy! The prawns need a good amount of seasoning to really shine. I usually start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then adjust to taste.

Marinating the Prawns:

Now for the crucial step: marinating the prawns. This allows all those delicious flavors to penetrate the shrimp, making them incredibly juicy and flavorful when grilled.

1. Prepare the Prawns: Make sure your prawns are peeled and deveined, with the tails left on. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better.
2. Coat the Prawns in Marinade: Add the prawns to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
3. Marinate in the Refrigerator: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the prawns to a resealable bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Don’t marinate for longer than 2 hours, as the lemon juice can start to “cook” the prawns and make them mushy.

Preparing the Grill:

A hot grill is essential for perfectly grilled prawns. It gives them that beautiful char and ensures they cook quickly and evenly.

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing red.
2. Clean the Grill Grates: Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush. This prevents the prawns from sticking and ensures they get those nice grill marks.
3. Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates with cooking oil or spray with cooking spray. This further helps prevent sticking. I like to use a high-heat oil like canola or grapeseed oil.

Grilling the Prawns:

This is where the magic happens! Grilling prawns is quick and easy, but it’s important to watch them carefully to avoid overcooking.

1. Thread Prawns onto Skewers (Optional): If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Thread the prawns onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each prawn. This makes them easier to handle on the grill. You can also grill them directly on the grates if you prefer.
2. Grill the Prawns: Place the prawns (either on skewers or directly on the grill grates) on the preheated grill.
3. Cook for 2-3 Minutes per Side: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the prawns turn pink and opaque and have slight char marks. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become tough and rubbery. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
4. Baste with Marinade (Optional): During the last minute of grilling, you can baste the prawns with a little extra marinade for added flavor. Be sure to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw prawns.

Serving the Grilled Prawns:

Now for the best part: enjoying your delicious grilled prawns! There are so many ways to serve them, but here’s my favorite:

1. Remove from Grill: Remove the grilled prawns from the grill and place them on a serving platter.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if desired).
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the grilled prawns immediately while they are still hot and juicy.
4. Optional Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful juices. You can also serve them over pasta, rice, or a salad. They’re also great as an appetizer or as part of a seafood platter.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Prawns:

• Don’t Overcook: The most important tip is to not overcook the prawns. They cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked prawns are tough and rubbery.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. Use fresh garlic, lemons, and herbs whenever possible.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to your spice preference. If you’re not a fan of heat, you can omit the chili altogether.
• Marinate for the Right Amount of Time: Marinate the prawns for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours.
• Preheat the Grill Properly: A hot grill is essential for perfectly grilled prawns.
• Clean and Oil the Grill Grates: This prevents the prawns from sticking and ensures they get those nice grill marks.
• Use Skewers (Optional): Skewers make the prawns easier to handle on the grill.

Variations:

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, cilantro, or basil.
• Spice Variations: Add other spices, such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric.
• Citrus Variations: Use lime or orange instead of lemon.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a sweet and spicy flavor.
• Coconut Prawns: Add coconut milk and shredded coconut to the marinade for a tropical twist.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for grilled prawns with garlic, lemon, and chili! It’s one of my favorite summer dishes, and I’m sure it will become one of yours too. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon, and Chilli are truly a must-try. The vibrant flavors, the ease of preparation, and the sheer deliciousness of each bite make this recipe a winner in my book. I honestly can’t think of a better way to enjoy fresh prawns, especially during the warmer months when grilling is practically a way of life.

But why is this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of flavors. The garlic provides a pungent, savory base, while the lemon adds a bright, zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the prawns. And then there’s the chilli – just enough to give it a gentle kick without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.

Beyond the incredible flavor, the simplicity of this recipe is a huge selling point. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up these grilled prawns. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in minutes. This makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, impromptu gatherings, or even a fancy weekend barbecue.

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. While these prawns are fantastic on their own, they’re also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a larger seafood platter. For a complete meal, try pairing them with a light salad, some grilled vegetables, or a side of fluffy rice. A crusty baguette for soaking up all that delicious garlic-lemon sauce is also highly recommended!

Looking for variations? Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or coriander adds a lovely freshness, while a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor of the grill. You could also add a splash of white wine to the marinade for extra depth of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try grilling the prawns with pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory twist. The possibilities are endless!

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Prawn Skewers: Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful and flavorful presentation.
• Prawn Tacos: Use the grilled prawns as a filling for tacos, topped with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Prawn Pasta: Toss the grilled prawns with your favorite pasta, a creamy sauce, and some chopped vegetables for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Prawn Salad: Add the grilled prawns to a mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a light and refreshing lunch.

Ultimately, the best way to enjoy these Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon, and Chilli is to make them your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and techniques until you find what works best for you. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process!

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of these incredible prawns. I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do. And when you do, please don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear your feedback, your variations, and your serving suggestions. Leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or simply send me an email. I can’t wait to see what you create!

Happy grilling, and happy eating!