BBQ Grilled Prawns

Introduction

BBQ Grilled Prawns are the ultimate dish for any seafood lover who craves a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The prawns, marinated in a blend of zesty citrus, garlic, and a touch of spice, soak up the smokiness from the grill, creating a truly irresistible taste. With a little char on the edges and a juicy, tender bite, these prawns are the epitome of summer cooking. Each skewer is a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds sing.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, too. I remember the first time I grilled prawns at a summer barbecue, surrounded by family and friends. The moment those prawns hit the hot grill, the sizzle was music to my ears, and the smell of citrus, garlic, and smoky goodness filled the air. It didn’t take long for everyone to gather around, eager to grab a skewer and dig in. The crispy, caramelized edges, combined with the tender interior of the prawns, made each bite feel like a little piece of perfection.

BBQ Grilled Prawns are great for any outdoor get-together, especially when served with a fresh, tangy dipping sauce or a side of grilled vegetables. They’re easy to make, yet feel so luxurious, making them ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, these prawns will always be a crowd-pleaser, bringing a little taste of summer to any meal.

Perfect for:

• Summer BBQs
• Seafood lovers
• Quick and flavorful weeknight dinners
• Outdoor parties and picnics
• Light and refreshing appetizers

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Grilled Prawns

• Simple Yet Flavorful – The marinade is packed with bold flavors, and grilling adds a delicious smoky char.
• Quick to Prepare – With just a few minutes of marinating time, these prawns are ready in under 20 minutes.
• Healthy and Light – Prawns are low in calories and rich in protein, making them a great option for light meals.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and seasonings to your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Grilling – The prawns grill beautifully, developing that perfect sear without drying out.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150-180 calories

Ingredients

• 1 lb large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Prawns – Tender and sweet, prawns are perfect for grilling and absorbing flavors from the marinade.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky, earthy flavor that complements the grilling process.
• Garlic – Provides a savory, aromatic depth to the marinade.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the rich flavors with a burst of acidity and freshness.
• Chili Powder – Adds a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Prawns

1. Peel and Devein – If not already done, peel and devein the prawns, leaving the tails on for a better presentation.
2. Pat Dry – Gently pat the prawns dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Make the Marinade

3. Combine Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Marinate the Prawns – Add the prawns to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes (you can also marinate for up to 30 minutes for a stronger flavor).

Grill the Prawns

5. Preheat the Grill – Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
6. Grill the Prawns – Place the prawns on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are slightly charred. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
7. Check for Doneness – Prawns are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch.

Serve

8. Garnish and Serve – Remove the prawns from the grill and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.

How to Serve BBQ Grilled Prawns

• As an Appetizer – Serve these prawns with a side of garlic butter or a tangy dipping sauce.
• With Grilled Vegetables – Pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob for a complete BBQ feast.
• In Tacos – Use the grilled prawns as a filling for tacos with a fresh slaw and creamy dressing.
• Over Rice or Salad – Serve atop a bed of rice or mixed greens for a light and satisfying meal.
• With Flatbreads – Serve with warm flatbreads and a yogurt dip for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Additional Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill – Grill the prawns in batches if necessary to allow for even cooking.
• Use Skewers for Easy Grilling – Thread the prawns onto skewers for easy flipping and grilling.
• Avoid Overcooking – Prawns cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked prawns become tough and rubbery.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor – If time allows, marinate the prawns for up to 30 minutes for a more intense flavor.
• Adjust Spices – If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Recipe Variations for BBQ Grilled Prawns

1. Cajun BBQ Grilled Prawns – Use a Cajun seasoning blend in place of smoked paprika for a spicier, zesty flavor.
2. Herb-Infused Grilled Prawns – Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
3. Garlic Butter Grilled Prawns – Melt butter with garlic and brush it on the prawns during grilling for an indulgent touch.
4. Honey Lemon BBQ Prawns – Add honey to the marinade for a sweet and savory glaze.
5. Spicy Mango BBQ Prawns – Marinate prawns with mango chutney and a dash of hot sauce for a tropical, spicy flavor.
6. Coconut Grilled Prawns – Add shredded coconut to the marinade for a tropical flair.
7. Lime and Cilantro BBQ Prawns – Use lime juice and chopped cilantro for a zesty, fresh flavor profile.
8. Garlic Parmesan BBQ Prawns – Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the prawns after grilling for an Italian-inspired twist.
9. Smoky Chipotle BBQ Prawns – Add chipotle powder or smoked chipotle peppers for a smoky heat.
10. Asian-Inspired Grilled Prawns – Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to the marinade for an Asian-style BBQ flavor.

Freezing and Storage for BBQ Grilled Prawns

• Freezing Raw Prawns – If you have leftover prawns, you can freeze them before or after grilling. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Storing Grilled Prawns – Store any leftover grilled prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to preserve their tenderness.
• Reheating Grilled Prawns – To reheat, quickly sauté the prawns in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or reheat in the microwave with a damp paper towel to avoid drying them out.

Special Equipment for BBQ Grilled Prawns

1. Grill – The essential tool for achieving the smoky char and perfect sear.
2. Skewers – Wooden or metal skewers help with flipping and grilling prawns easily.
3. Basting Brush – For applying marinades or additional flavorings during grilling.
4. Tongs – For flipping and removing prawns from the grill with ease.
5. Meat Thermometer – Ensures prawns are cooked to the right internal temperature (should be 120°F).
6. Bowl – For marinating the prawns and mixing the marinade ingredients.
7. Grill Basket (Optional) – Ideal for grilling smaller prawns without worrying about them falling through the grates.
8. Lemon Squeezer – For easy extraction of lemon juice without seeds.
9. Chopping Board – For chopping fresh parsley or any other garnishes.
10. Serving Platter – A large plate to display your beautifully grilled prawns.

FAQ Section for BBQ Grilled Prawns

1. Can I use shrimp instead of prawns for this recipe?
   Yes, shrimp can be substituted for prawns as they have similar cooking times and flavor.
2. Can I grill prawns with the shell on?
   Yes, grilling prawns with the shell on adds extra flavor, though it may take a little longer to cook.
3. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
   Yes, the marinade can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
4. Do I need to devein the prawns?
   Yes, deveining is recommended for a cleaner, more enjoyable eating experience, but it’s not strictly necessary.
5. How can I prevent prawns from sticking to the grill?
   Make sure the grill is preheated and oiled. You can also use a grill basket or thread them onto skewers to prevent sticking.

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Conclusion for BBQ Grilled Prawns

BBQ Grilled Prawns are a show-stopping dish that brings together the smoky richness of grilled flavors with the succulent sweetness of prawns. Each prawn is perfectly charred, creating a crispy outer layer while maintaining its juicy, tender texture inside.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. The marinade infuses the prawns with a burst of zesty, savory goodness, enhancing their natural sweetness without overpowering it. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or a part of a summer feast, BBQ Grilled Prawns are sure to impress. They pair wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or a tangy dipping sauce for a well-rounded meal.

Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, BBQ Grilled Prawns offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to leave everyone coming back for more. So fire up the grill, enjoy the sizzling aroma, and indulge in a seafood experience that’s as simple as it is delicious! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—you’ll want them to taste just how mouthwatering this dish truly is! Enjoy every flavorful bite!