If you love fresh seafood with vibrant flavors, the BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish bursts with zesty lemon freshness, the warm kick of smoked paprika, and the irresistible aroma of garlic, all grilled to perfection so each prawn becomes tender, juicy, and slightly charred. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual summer dinner or impressing guests at your next barbecue, these prawns deliver big on taste while staying simple and quick to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a go-to favorite, perfect for sharing memorable meals and smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is half the fun. Each component is carefully chosen to enhance the prawns, from the brightness of fresh lemon to the subtle heat of smoked paprika. These simple staples come together to create a flavorful marinade that makes the prawns sing.
- Large prawns, 1 1/2 pounds: Peeled and deveined with tails on for an easy grip and perfect bite.
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and spices onto the prawns.
- Garlic cloves, 3 minced: Freshly minced for that punch of savory depth.
- Lemon zest and juice of 1 lemon: Provides bright acidity and fresh citrus aroma that awakens the seafood.
- Fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped: Adds a vibrant green color and a mild herbal note.
- Smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon: Brings warmth and a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled prawns.
- Red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon (optional): Adds a subtle heat kick for those who like a little spice.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors perfectly.
- Lemon wedges for serving: For an extra squeeze of citrus brightness at the table.
How to Make BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Prawns
Start by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This vibrant marinade ensures every prawn is infused with zesty, smoky goodness. Toss the prawns in the mixture until they are evenly coated, then cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to deepen those flavors.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
While the prawns marinate, get your grill or grill pan heating up to medium-high. This heat level is key to achieving that perfect char without overcooking the prawns. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Prawns
Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers for easier flipping on the grill. Place them on the grill and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink, opaque, and pick up those signature grill marks. The result is prawns that are juicy inside with delightful smoky edges.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Transfer the grilled prawns to a serving plate, sprinkle them with extra fresh parsley, and serve alongside lemon wedges. The bright lemon just waiting to be squeezed over adds the perfect finishing touch, accentuating all those layers of flavor.
How to Serve BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and lemon wedges are classic garnishes that enhance both the flavor and presentation of the prawns. You can also add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to elevate the dish further. These little touches make it feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Because the prawns are bold and flavorful, pairing them with simple sides works best. Think grilled vegetables, a light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or fluffy couscous. Rice pilaf or garlic butter noodles are also excellent companions that soak up all the delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, arrange the prawns on a large platter layered over fresh greens or on top of a citrus salsa. Serving them on skewers adds a fun finger-food element. You can even turn the prawns into tacos with crisp slaw and a drizzle of creamy sauce to mix things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover grilled prawns, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They make a fantastic quick lunch or addition to salads the next day. Just keep them chilled and covered well.
Freezing
Freezing grilled prawns is not usually recommended as it can affect their texture, but if necessary, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container immediately after cooling. Use within one month and thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the prawns gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly into a warm oven. Avoid high heat as it can dry them out quickly. Adding a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice during reheating helps keep them juicy and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use shrimp instead of prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! Shrimp works just as well and will absorb the marinade beautifully. Choose large or extra-large shrimp for a similar texture and size.
How long can I marinate the prawns?
The recipe suggests 15 to 30 minutes, which is enough to infuse the flavors without making the prawns mushy. You can marinate up to an hour, but avoid much longer to keep the texture perfect.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook these prawns another way?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stove or even broil them in the oven. Just watch closely to prevent overcooking and aim for a nice char where possible.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! The red pepper flakes add light heat, but you can increase the amount or add cayenne pepper or a spicy chili powder to suit your taste.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, the prawns with garlic and lemon marinade are naturally low in carbohydrates and perfect for low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the simple joy of perfectly grilled prawns bursting with garlicky, lemony goodness, and the BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe delivers precisely that. It’s quick to prepare, full of fresh flavors, and ideal for any occasion that calls for something delicious yet effortless. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the amazing taste that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Print
BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Lemon offer a flavorful, healthy seafood option perfect for summer grilling. Marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices, these succulent prawns cook quickly on the grill, delivering a smoky char and fresh citrus aroma.
Ingredients
Prawns and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds large prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Marinate the Prawns: Add the cleaned prawns to the marinade and toss well to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the prawns.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure a perfect sear for the prawns.
- Thread onto Skewers: For easier handling on the grill, thread the marinated prawns onto skewers, taking care not to crowd them.
- Grill the Prawns: Place the prawns on the hot grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink, opaque, and develop a light char.
- Serve: Remove the prawns from the grill and transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- If large prawns are unavailable, shrimp can be used as a substitute with equally delicious results.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness according to your preference.
