These easy grilled prawns are bursting with flavor! With zesty lemon, a hint of garlic, and a kick of chili, they make for a perfect summer dish.
They cook up quickly on the grill, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the sunshine. I love serving them with a fresh salad—so tasty and fun! 🌞🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prawns: Use large, fresh prawns for the best flavor. If fresh is hard to find, frozen prawns work too! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. If you’re short on fresh, you can substitute with garlic powder, but use less as it’s stronger.
Chili: A red chili adds the right amount of heat. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you can’t find fresh chili, red pepper flakes are a great alternative.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for grilling, but you can also use vegetable oil or avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is essential for brightness. A bottle of lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always tastier. Don’t skip the zest—it adds incredible flavor!
How Do I Grill Prawns Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Grilling prawns can be tricky, but here’s how to get them just right! Remember, prawns cook quickly, so timing is key.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this ensures a nice sear.
- Marinate the prawns for at least 15-20 minutes, but no more than 30 minutes to keep them juicy.
- When grilling, cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on the color—once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
- Take them off the grill right away to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled prawns every time! Enjoy the rich flavors of garlic, lemon, and chili in your dish!
Easy Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Prawns:
- 1 pound (450g) large prawns, deveined and shells on
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 red chili, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: extra lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total! You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and marinating the prawns, followed by 10-15 minutes grilling. It’s a quick and delicious meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, sliced red chili, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful marinade. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Marinate the Prawns:
Add the deveined prawns to the bowl and gently toss them in the marinade until they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step is key to infusing the prawns with flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the prawns are marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to give your prawns those beautiful grill marks!
4. Grill the Prawns:
Carefully place the marinated prawns on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled prawns to a serving dish. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for even more flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley and add extra lemon wedges on the side if you like.
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig in while the prawns are warm. These grilled prawns are perfect as a main dish or a delightful appetizer. Enjoy the zesty, garlicky goodness!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chili
Can I Use Frozen Prawns for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are completely thawed before marinating. You can thaw frozen prawns overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Long Can I Marinate the Prawns?
For the best flavor, marinate the prawns for 15-20 minutes. If you marinate them for longer than 30 minutes, the acid from the lemon juice can start to “cook” the prawns, making them less tender. Stick to the recommended time for the most delicious results!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Prawns?
These grilled prawns pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Try serving them over a bed of fresh salad, with rice, or alongside grilled vegetables. They also make a great appetizer on their own with some crusty bread for dipping!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Enjoy within a couple of days for the best flavor!
