Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the sheer joy of Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on warm summer evenings when I just want to fire up the grill and enjoy something light yet bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates this irresistible aroma as it wafts through the air, making your neighbors wonder what magic is happening in your backyard! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which means more time to relax and enjoy the food with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Look for fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure they’re properly cleaned for the best taste!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must here! The more, the merrier if you love that garlicky punch.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Use freshly grated for that rich, nutty flavor. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps everything stick together and adds a lovely richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A splash of brightness that really brings out the flavors. Freshly squeezed is always the best!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Just the right amount to enhance all those delicious flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick to balance out the richness of the cheese and shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – For that final touch of color and freshness! You’ll love the pop it adds.
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
First things first! In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. Now, here comes the fun part—add the shrimp! Toss those little guys around until they’re beautifully coated in the marinade. Let them sit and soak up all that garlicky goodness for about 15 minutes. This is where the magic happens; trust me, it makes all the difference!
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While the shrimp are marinating, let’s get that grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give those shrimp a beautiful sear. A quick tip: you can hold your hand about six inches above the grill grates. If you can only keep it there for 2-3 seconds, it’s perfect! Just be careful not to burn yourself!
Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp
Now, grab those marinated shrimp and let’s get them on skewers! If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking. It’s like a little shrimp party on a stick!
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Time to fire up the grill! Place the skewers on the grates and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely pink color and curl slightly. Keep an eye on them—overcooking can make them tough, and we definitely don’t want that!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once your shrimp are perfectly grilled, carefully remove them from the grill. Now for the grand finale—sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over the top! This not only adds a beautiful finish but also an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 21 minutes!
- Flavor-packed with the perfect blend of garlic and Parmesan.
- Healthy ingredients that are gluten-free and high in protein.
- Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy weeknight dinner.
- Versatile—great as an appetizer or main dish.
- Minimal cleanup since everything comes together in one bowl!
- Can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to make your Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp absolutely perfect! First off, don’t be shy with the garlic—if you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two. It really amps up the flavor and gives that punch everyone goes crazy for!
Now, about that Parmesan cheese: freshly grated is the way to go! It melts beautifully and creates a lovely, rich layer on top of your shrimp. If you want to play around with flavors, try adding some grated lemon zest or a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat!
And here’s a crucial tip: keep an eye on your shrimp while they’re grilling. They really only need about 2-3 minutes per side. You want them to be pink and slightly curled, but not tough! Overcooking is the enemy here, so take them off the grill as soon as they’re done. You’ll thank yourself later when they’re juicy and tender!
Lastly, if you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. But honestly, these shrimp are best enjoyed fresh off the grill. Happy grilling!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this flavorful dish! There are so many options that will complement those succulent shrimp beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is always a great choice. I love tossing together mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. The crunch and acidity really balance out the richness of the shrimp!
- Coconut Rice: For something a bit different, try serving the shrimp over coconut rice. The subtle sweetness of the coconut pairs perfectly with the savory garlic and Parmesan!
- Grilled Vegetables: Fire up some veggies on the grill while you’re at it! Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt make for a colorful and tasty side.
- Garlic Bread: If you’re really in the mood for garlic, serve your shrimp with some warm garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover marinade or juices!
- Pasta: Toss your grilled shrimp with a bit of pasta, olive oil, and some fresh herbs for a quick and easy meal. It’s like a summer feast on a plate!
- Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and avocado offers a nice texture and a wholesome vibe that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
Mix and match these ideas to create your perfect meal. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with the vibrant flavors of Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp taking center stage!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp (though I doubt it!), storing them properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor intact. First, let the shrimp cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 2 days, but trust me, they’re best enjoyed fresh!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat for the best results. Just add a splash of olive oil to the pan, toss in the shrimp, and gently warm them up for a few minutes. This way, they’ll retain their juicy texture and won’t dry out. Avoid the microwave if you can—nothing ruins perfectly grilled shrimp like rubbery reheating!
And if you really want to elevate your leftovers, consider tossing them back onto the grill for just a minute or two. This will bring back that lovely char and flavor! Enjoy every bite, my friends!
Nutritional Information
Let’s break down the goodness in these Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp! These delightful little bites are not just packed with flavor; they’re also a healthy choice. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 28g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But either way, you can feel good about enjoying this dish! With a healthy dose of protein and tasty flavors, Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp is a delicious guilt-free treat!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a quick thaw.
What if I don’t have wooden skewers?
No problem at all! You can grill the shrimp directly on the grill grates, just be sure to oil them lightly to prevent sticking. Alternatively, metal skewers work great too if you have those on hand.
Can I make this shrimp dish ahead of time?
While the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can marinate them a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill! If you do have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or even some diced jalapeños. You can also serve them with a hot sauce of your choice for an extra spicy finish!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! While Parmesan is fantastic, you can experiment with other cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary!
What sides go well with Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp?
There are so many options! I love pairing them with a fresh salad, coconut rice, or even grilled veggies. You can also serve them over pasta or quinoa for a heartier meal!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be! Just make sure to store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge after cooking. They’ll keep well for a couple of days, but as I mentioned earlier, they’re best enjoyed fresh.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of grilling?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp: 5-Minute Flavor Explosion
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful dish of grilled shrimp tossed in garlic and Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat.
- Let shrimp marinate for 15 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Remove from grill and sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using.
- Adjust garlic and Parmesan according to taste.
- Serve immediately for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp