Prepare to ignite your taste buds with the most mouthwatering Gulf shrimp recipe that will transform your summer grilling game! These barbecue-spiced grilled shrimp are not just a dish, they're a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for your secret recipe. With a perfect blend of smoky paprika, zesty spices, and the sweet succulence of fresh Gulf shrimp, this dish promises to be the star of any cookout, backyard party, or weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Gulf shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the Gulf shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning adherence and caramelization.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform spice mixture.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the spice mixture, gently tossing to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the barbecue spice blend.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Thread the seasoned shrimp onto metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp to ensure even cooking.
- Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and develop light char marks.
- Remove the shrimp from the grill when they are opaque and firm, being careful not to overcook, which can make them tough and rubbery.
- Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter and immediately garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot as an appetizer, main course, or alongside your favorite summer side dishes.
Tips
- Always pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum spice adherence and perfect caramelization.
- Don't overcrowd your skewers - leave a small space between shrimp for even heat distribution.
- Watch your cooking time carefully; shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.
- Use metal skewers for more even cooking, or soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 15-30 minutes before grilling.
- Serve immediately after grilling to enjoy the shrimp at peak temperature and juiciness.
- If you don't have a grill, this recipe works equally well on a grill pan or under the broiler.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 191kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
