simple grilled shrimp in foil
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Simple Grilled Shrimp In Foil

As summer approaches, there’s nothing quite like the smell of grilled seafood wafting through the air. One of my favorite quick and easy recipes is simple grilled shrimp in foil. This dish combines succulent shrimp with fresh herbs and lemon, creating a light yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for backyard barbecues or camping trips. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it ideal for any occasion. You can customize the flavors to suit your taste while enjoying the ease of cleanup that comes with foil packets. This method locks in moisture and flavor, allowing the shrimp to cook evenly and absorb all the delicious seasonings. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a foolproof way to savor the deliciousness of grilled shrimp, ensuring that everyone at your gathering will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Shrimp: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Opt for shrimp that are fresh and firm to the touch, as they will yield the best texture and flavor.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps to keep the shrimp moist while cooking.
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Fresh juice enhances the dish’s brightness compared to bottled alternatives.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic provides an aromatic depth to the shrimp, infusing each bite with flavor.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor enhancement.
  • Pepper: ½ teaspoon. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for a more robust taste.
  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish). This adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
  • Lemon Slices: 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish). The slices not only look appealing but also impart additional lemony flavor as they cook.

For best results, choose high-quality shrimp that are fresh or properly frozen. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite seasoning blend. You can even use flavored olive oils for an extra twist. You can learn more about this topic.

Steps / Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Make sure to give your grill ample time to reach the correct temperature for optimal cooking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated. This step ensures that every shrimp is infused with the delicious marinade.
  3. Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil, about 18 inches long. Lay one piece of foil flat on a clean surface, ensuring it’s large enough to hold the shrimp without overcrowding.
  4. Evenly distribute the marinated shrimp onto the center of the foil. Make sure to spread them out to ensure even cooking. If they are piled too closely, they may steam instead of grill.
  5. Place a few lemon slices on top of the shrimp for added flavor. The juice from the slices will drip down and enhance the shrimp as they cook.
  6. Fold the foil over the shrimp to create a tightly sealed packet, crimping the edges to prevent any steam from escaping. This will create a mini oven effect, keeping all the moisture in.
  7. Place the foil packet directly on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. You may carefully open a corner of the packet to check for doneness, being cautious of escaping steam.
  8. Once cooked, remove the packet from the grill and let it rest for a minute before carefully opening it, as steam will escape. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute in the shrimp.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately to enjoy the best flavors and textures.

Tips & Tricks

For best results with your simple grilled shrimp in foil, here are some expert tips: Check out our related guide for more tips.

  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid rubbery shrimp.
  • Make-Ahead: You can marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead of time for more intense flavors, but avoid marinating longer than 2 hours as the acid in lemon juice can begin to cook the shrimp and change their texture.
  • Common Mistakes: Don’t overcrowd the foil packet; this will ensure even cooking and prevent steaming. A good rule of thumb is to keep a single layer of shrimp.
  • Pro Techniques: If you like charred flavors, open the foil packet for the last minute of grilling to allow the shrimp to get a little smoky. This can enhance the flavor profile significantly.

Variations

While the basic recipe is fantastic, there are many ways to mix it up:

  • For a touch of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
  • Mix in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a more colorful presentation and added nutrition.
  • Experiment with different marinades, like a soy sauce and ginger mixture for an Asian-inspired twist that complements the shrimp beautifully.
  • For a Mediterranean flavor, add olives and feta cheese to the packet, creating a savory dish that is rich in taste and character.

Serving Suggestions

This simple grilled shrimp in foil pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the shrimp. For a comforting option, try it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. To enhance the meal, a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea would be delightful. You could also include crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices from the foil packets.

Simple Grilled Shrimp In Foil
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Simple Grilled Shrimp In Foil

Recipe by itachi sarah
5 from 1 vote
Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy
🍽️
Servings
4
⏱️
Prep Time
15 min
🍳
Cook Time
10 min
🔥
Calories

This dish combines succulent shrimp with fresh herbs and lemon, creating a light yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for backyard barbecues or camping trips.

Cook Mode Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).

2.

In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.

3.

Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil, about 18 inches long.

4.

Evenly distribute the marinated shrimp onto the center of the foil.

5.

Place a few lemon slices on top of the shrimp.

6.

Fold the foil over the shrimp to create a tightly sealed packet.

7.

Place the foil packet directly on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

8.

Once cooked, remove the packet from the grill and let it rest for a minute before carefully opening it.

9.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Recipe Reviews

  • itachi sarah★★★★★

    Excellent recipe!

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