BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is a vibrant, zesty, and incredibly flavorful seafood dish that brings the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and spicy. The prawns are marinated in a mouthwatering mixture of garlic, lemon, and chili, then grilled to perfection to achieve a smoky, charred exterior while retaining their natural sweetness and juiciness inside. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a weeknight dinner, or simply craving a delicious seafood dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

The bright, bold flavors of garlic and lemon combine with the heat from fresh chilies to create an irresistible marinade. Grilling the prawns adds a delightful smokiness, making every bite a perfect balance of freshness and intensity. The dish is simple yet elegant, ideal for any occasion, and best served hot off the grill with your favorite sides. This guide will take you through each step of making BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli, share tips for getting it just right, and offer suggestions for variations to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Bursting with Flavor: The prawns are marinated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, lemon, and chili, resulting in a dish that is both aromatic and bursting with zesty heat.
• Perfectly Grilled: Grilling prawns gives them a beautiful char and smokiness, enhancing their natural sweetness. The high heat of the grill seals in the moisture, keeping the prawns tender and juicy.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. The marinade is simple to prepare, and grilling the prawns takes only minutes.
• Healthy and Light: Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, and this dish is low in fat while still being incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli can be served on their own, over rice, in tacos, or as part of a larger seafood feast. You can easily adjust the recipe to fit any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 15 minutes (optional)
• Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings (about 12-15 prawns)
• Calories per Serving: Around 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150-200 kcal
• Fat: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 3-5g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the BBQ Grilled Prawns:

• 1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, depending on preference)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Prawns

Start by rinsing the prawns under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. If you prefer to leave the tails on for presentation, feel free to do so; otherwise, you can remove them for easier eating. Be sure to devein the prawns, as this removes the dark vein that runs along the back of the shrimp, which can be gritty and unappealing.

2. Make the Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped chili, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture together until well combined. The garlic will infuse the oil, while the lemon and chili will add brightness and heat to the marinade.

3. Marinate the Prawns

Place the cleaned prawns into a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the prawns, making sure they are all evenly coated. If you have time, cover and refrigerate the prawns for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating will deepen the flavors and give you even more delicious prawns.

4. Preheat the Grill

While the prawns are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot enough to sear the prawns quickly, but not so hot that they burn before cooking through. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down to a medium heat. For a gas grill, simply set it to medium-high.

If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, preheat it over medium-high heat. You can also lightly oil the grill grates or pan with a brush to prevent the prawns from sticking.

5. Grill the Prawns

Once the grill is preheated, place the prawns directly on the grill grates or in the grill pan. Cook the prawns for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery. The prawns should have a slight char on the edges and a smoky aroma.

If you’re using a skewer to grill the prawns, thread them onto the skewer before grilling. This makes flipping them much easier and prevents them from falling through the grates.

6. Serve the Grilled Prawns

Once the prawns are cooked through, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional lemon wedges for squeezing. The lemon will add a nice burst of freshness and enhance the citrus notes in the dish.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook very quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery and dry. Be sure to remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes on each side.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of chili used in the marinade can be adjusted to your taste. For a milder version, reduce the chili, or substitute it with a milder pepper. If you love heat, feel free to add more chili or use a hotter variety.
• Marinate for Flavor: While you can cook the prawns immediately, marinating them for 15-30 minutes will allow the garlic, lemon, and chili flavors to infuse into the prawns, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, use fresh garlic, lemon, and chili. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor and aroma of the dish.
• Grill with Care: Keep an eye on the prawns as they cook, as they cook quickly and can burn easily. You can also use a grill basket for smaller prawns or those that might slip through the grill grates.

Variations of BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• BBQ Grilled Prawns with Ginger and Lime: For a refreshing twist, add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger and 1 tablespoon of lime zest to the marinade in place of the lemon. This variation will provide a fragrant, zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the prawns.
• BBQ Grilled Prawns with Coconut Milk: Add a tropical flair by incorporating coconut milk into the marinade. Replace some of the olive oil with 2 tablespoons of coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture that complements the garlic, lemon, and chili flavors.
• Spicy BBQ Grilled Prawns with Paprika and Cayenne: If you like extra heat, increase the amount of chili in the marinade and add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. This version will pack a punch and leave your taste buds tingling.
• Herb-Infused BBQ Grilled Prawns: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the marinade. These herbs will add earthy, aromatic notes that complement the garlic and chili.
• BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers: For a fun presentation, thread the prawns onto skewers along with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Grill the skewers and serve them with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are best enjoyed fresh off the grill while still hot. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The prawns can be eaten cold or reheated gently in the microwave or on a grill pan for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can result in tough prawns.

For longer storage, you can freeze the grilled prawns. Arrange the prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen grilled prawns can be stored for up to 2 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or reheat them directly from frozen on the grill or in a skillet.

Side Dishes and Pairings for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

While these prawns are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary sides can elevate the meal:

• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the prawns with grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini. The smoky flavor of the vegetables will complement the prawns beautifully.
• Rice Pilaf or Couscous: A light, fluffy rice pilaf or couscous makes a perfect base for the prawns. You can even toss the prawns with the rice for a one-pot meal.
• Salad with Avocado and Mango: A fresh salad with creamy avocado and sweet, juicy mango pairs wonderfully with the zesty prawns. The combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors will balance the heat from the chili.
• Garlic Bread: Serve the prawns with some garlic bread on the side for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious juices from the prawns.
• Tropical Fruit Salsa: A refreshing salsa made with pineapple, cucumber, and red onion makes a great accompaniment to the prawns. The sweetness of the fruit balances the spiciness of the dish.

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Conclusion

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the perfect combination of garlic, lemon, chili, and smoky grilled prawns. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a delicious seafood dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner. The easy-to-follow steps, tips, and variations ensure that you can customize the recipe to your tastes and enjoy a delicious meal every time.

So, fire up the grill, marinate the prawns, and get ready for a seafood feast that’s full of flavor and spice. Enjoy the tangy, garlicky goodness of BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli—you’re sure to love every bite!