7 Tasty Grilled Shrimp Recipes to Savor This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, and what better way to do that than with shrimp? Grilled shrimp is quick, flavorful, and versatile, making it an ideal choice for any summer gathering, whether it’s a casual BBQ or a more formal outdoor dinner. With its natural sweetness, light texture, and ability to soak up marinades, shrimp can be transformed into countless delicious dishes. If you’re ready to elevate your summer cooking with some new recipes, here are seven tasty grilled shrimp recipes to savor this season.

Why Grilled Shrimp Is Perfect for Summer

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to appreciate why grilled shrimp should be a staple in your summer meals:

• Quick & Easy: Shrimp cooks quickly on the grill—often in just a few minutes—making it perfect for busy evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Light & Healthy: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it a light yet satisfying option for a summer meal. Pair it with your favorite vegetables or fresh salads for a balanced, healthy dish.
• Versatile: Whether you like spicy, smoky, or tangy flavors, shrimp can be easily marinated or seasoned to fit any palate. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from grilled corn to fresh fruit salads.
• Great for Entertaining: Shrimp is easy to serve in bite-sized portions, perfect for family-style meals or gatherings with friends. It’s also great for skewers, making it perfect for grilling parties.

With those benefits in mind, let’s explore seven grilled shrimp recipes you’ll want to try this summer.

1. Classic Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp

There’s nothing like the rich, buttery flavor of garlic butter shrimp, especially when grilled to perfection. This recipe takes a timeless combination of garlic, butter, and seasoning, turning it into a smoky, juicy shrimp dish that’s perfect for any summer occasion.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh parsley
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Rich and garlicky with a buttery finish and a hint of citrus.
• Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with grilled vegetables or on top of pasta for a complete meal.

2. Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp

If you love bold, spicy flavors, this Cajun-inspired shrimp recipe will be a hit at your next BBQ. The Cajun seasoning adds a deep, smoky heat that’s balanced by the sweetness of the shrimp, making every bite exciting and full of flavor.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Lemon wedges

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Smoky, spicy, and savory with a touch of zest from the lemon.
• Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with a cold, refreshing coleslaw or a fresh corn salad.

3. Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your grill with these skewers. The lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs in the marinade create a light and aromatic flavor profile that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice and zest
• Fresh oregano and thyme
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Fresh, herby, and tangy with a hint of citrus.
• Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with grilled pita, tzatziki sauce, and a Greek salad.

4. Sweet and Tangy Teriyaki Grilled Shrimp

For those who love a sweet and savory dish, this teriyaki grilled shrimp recipe is a winner. The sweet teriyaki sauce caramelizes as the shrimp grills, giving each piece a flavorful, sticky glaze.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Teriyaki sauce
• Honey
• Fresh ginger (grated)
• Garlic (minced)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Sweet and savory with a hint of umami from the teriyaki sauce.
• Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

5. Chimichurri Grilled Shrimp

Chimichurri is a tangy, herb-packed sauce from Argentina that pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp. This zesty marinade brings fresh flavors to your shrimp, with garlic, parsley, and red wine vinegar creating a vibrant, flavorful dish.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh parsley
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic (minced)
• Red pepper flakes
• Olive oil

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy with a herby finish.
• Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with grilled corn on the cob and a tomato salad for a perfect summer meal.

6. Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

For a light, refreshing grilled shrimp dish, look no further than this lemon herb recipe. The combination of fresh lemon juice and herbs like thyme and basil infuses the shrimp with a bright, aromatic flavor.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• Fresh thyme and basil
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Light, refreshing, and fragrant with a citrusy finish.
• Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a quinoa salad or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a light, healthy meal.

7. Tropical Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple

Bring the flavors of the tropics to your grill with this sweet and savory shrimp recipe. The pineapple adds a juicy, caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the shrimp’s natural flavor, making this dish perfect for a summer gathering.

Key Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh pineapple (cubed)
• Soy sauce
• Honey
• Lime juice
• Jalapeño (optional)

Recipe Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Sweet and savory with a touch of heat from the jalapeño (if used).
• Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes on the grill.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a coconut rice or a light avocado salad for a tropical-inspired meal.

Tips for Grilling Perfect Shrimp

Grilling shrimp is incredibly easy, but there are a few tips that will help ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp.
• Use Skewers: For easy flipping and even cooking, skewer the shrimp. You can use metal or wooden skewers, but if you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the shrimp. This will ensure they cook evenly and get a nice sear.
• Marinate for Flavor: If you have time, marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes before grilling. This will infuse them with more flavor and make them extra juicy.
• Serve Immediately: Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, so serve them immediately while they’re still hot.

Conclusion: Fire Up the Grill and Savor the Summer

These seven grilled shrimp recipes are the perfect way to savor the flavors of summer. Whether you’re craving something tangy, spicy, or sweet, there’s a shrimp recipe for every palate. Plus, shrimp is quick and easy to prepare, making it the ideal dish for summer gatherings or a casual weeknight meal. So, fire up your grill, try out these recipes, and enjoy a delicious summer meal that will impress your family and friends!

FAQ: Grilled Shrimp Tips and Tricks

Can I use frozen shrimp for grilling?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before grilling. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent them from getting a nice sear.

What’s the best way to marinate shrimp?
Marinate shrimp for 15-30 minutes. Avoid marinating for longer than an hour, as the shrimp can start to break down and become mushy due to the acidity in the marinade.

What can I serve with grilled shrimp?
Grilled shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, salads, grilled vegetables, and pasta. Get creative and mix and match based on your preferences!

Ready to take your summer grilling to the next level? Try these 7 tasty grilled shrimp recipes and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering meals with friends and family!