Grilled Prawns

Grilled Prawns

Grilled prawns are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or elegant dinner parties.

With their smoky, charred exterior and juicy, tender interior, prawns take on a delicious flavor when cooked over an open flame. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be paired with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to hearty grains, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

For the Prawns:

1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined (leave tails on for presentation, if desired)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for spice)

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce (optional):

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Pinch of salt

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Prawns

Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Add the prawns to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let them marinate for 15–20 minutes for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Prawns

Thread the prawns onto skewers if using, to make flipping easier.

Place the prawns directly on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque with a slight char. Avoid overcooking, as prawns can become rubbery.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

Brush the sauce over the grilled prawns just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled prawns to a platter and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad.

Chef’s Note

For added smokiness, grill the prawns with the shells on and peel them just before eating.

If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly.

Marinate the prawns for up to an hour, but no longer, as the acid in the marinade can start to “cook” the prawns.

Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cumin to the marinade.

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 4)

Calories: 180

Protein: 20g

Carbohydrates: 2g

Fat: 10g

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 0g

Sodium: 340mg

Grilled prawns are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seafood, combining smoky, tangy flavors with a tender texture. This recipe is sure to impress your guests while being easy enough to whip up for a casual meal at home.