Marinated Grilled Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with a flavorful marinade, resulting in a succulent and savory experience. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or as a delectable appetizer at parties.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

⅓ cup olive oil
¼ cup tomato sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 pounds fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 skewers

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, tomato sauce, minced garlic, and red wine vinegar. Add chopped fresh basil, salt, and cayenne pepper, stirring until well combined.
Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to redistribute the marinade.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, piercing each shrimp near the tail and the head to secure them. Discard any remaining marinade.
Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough.
Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and serve immediately. These flavorful shrimp can be enjoyed on their own, or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Nutritional Facts

Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 190mg
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0.5g

The History of Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp has been a prized food source for centuries, with ancient civilizations like the Greeks, Romans, and Chinese enjoying this versatile seafood. As grilling became a preferred cooking method across various cultures, shrimp naturally found its way onto the fire.

In regions such as the Mediterranean, shrimp is often marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling. In the Caribbean, bold spices and citrus flavors dominate the marinade. Meanwhile, in the Southern United States, shrimp is often prepared with Cajun or Creole seasonings. Marinated Grilled Shrimp is a dish that has been influenced by many culinary traditions, making it an adaptable recipe that can be tailored to different tastes.

What Makes Marinated Grilled Shrimp Special?

This dish stands out because of its simplicity and versatility. The combination of marination and grilling enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors while giving it a slightly smoky taste. Unlike deep-fried or heavily sauced seafood dishes, grilled shrimp is a light yet satisfying option that can be served in numerous ways.

The marinade itself is the secret to making this dish exceptional. Ingredients like olive oil, garlic, herbs, citrus juice, and spices infuse the shrimp with bold flavors. Because shrimp absorbs marinade quickly, it only takes a short time to develop deep flavors before grilling.

Additionally, shrimp cook very fast, making this a great option for those who want a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The high heat of the grill creates a perfect sear on the shrimp, locking in juices and providing a deliciously smoky aroma.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides, from fresh salads to hearty grains. Here are some of the best accompaniments to serve with Marinated Grilled Shrimp:

Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and corn complement the smoky shrimp perfectly.
Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or protein-packed quinoa helps balance the meal while absorbing the marinade’s flavors.
Garlic Butter Pasta: A simple pasta tossed in garlic butter and herbs makes an excellent pairing.
Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the charred shrimp.
Baked Potatoes: A crispy-skinned, fluffy baked potato works well as a side for a heartier meal.
Tropical Fruit Salsa: Mango or pineapple salsa provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the shrimp’s smoky flavors.

Health Benefits of Marinated Grilled Shrimp

One of the reasons Marinated Grilled Shrimp is so popular is its nutritional benefits. This dish is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a healthy yet flavorful meal. Here are some key benefits:

High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue.
Low in Calories: Unlike fried seafood dishes, grilled shrimp is light and low in calories, making it ideal for weight-conscious individuals.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote brain function.
Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp contains essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and zinc, which contribute to overall health.
Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following keto, paleo, or low-carb diets.

By using a healthy marinade with heart-friendly ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish becomes an even more nutritious choice.

Tips for Cooking the Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provide the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
Don’t Over-Marinate: Shrimp absorb flavors quickly, so marinating them for 30 minutes to an hour is usually enough. Over-marinating, especially in acidic ingredients like lemon juice, can make the shrimp mushy.
Skewer for Easy Grilling: Using skewers helps prevent shrimp from falling through the grill grates and makes flipping them easier.
Preheat the Grill Properly: Cooking on a hot grill ensures a good sear while preventing the shrimp from sticking.
Cook Quickly and Watch Closely: Shrimp cook in just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery and tough.
Brush with Extra Marinade While Grilling: A light brush of the marinade during cooking enhances flavor and keeps the shrimp juicy.

Different Ways to Serve Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Marinated Grilled Shrimp is incredibly versatile, and it can be served in various ways:

As an Appetizer: Serve skewered shrimp with a dipping sauce like garlic butter, cocktail sauce, or aioli.
In Tacos: Add shrimp to warm corn tortillas with slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
Over Salads: Toss grilled shrimp into a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
In Pasta: Mix with pasta and a light garlic or tomato sauce for a seafood pasta dish.
On a Platter: Serve alongside grilled steak or chicken for a surf-and-turf meal.

Why You Should Try Marinated Grilled Shrimp

This dish is perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy quick, flavorful meals. It’s a fantastic choice for summer cookouts, family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week. The smoky, charred flavor from the grill, combined with the bold, fresh marinade, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Additionally, Marinated Grilled Shrimp is a healthy and satisfying option for those looking for a protein-packed meal without the heaviness of fried foods. Since it requires minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a convenient and delicious dish that fits into any lifestyle.

Conclusion

Marinated Grilled Shrimp is a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and nutrition all in one. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a larger seafood feast, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

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