If you’re looking for a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that screams summer and simplicity, this BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy prawns are lovingly marinated in a zesty mixture of garlic, fresh lemon, and just the right amount of chilli heat before hitting the grill to develop those irresistible smoky char marks. The result is a perfect harmony of flavors—bright, spicy, and savory—that will have you reaching for seconds and planning your next cookout.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe lies in using a handful of fresh, essential ingredients that each play a crucial role. Every item contributes not only to the exquisite flavor but also to the dish’s texture and vibrant color.
- Large raw prawns (1½ pounds): Peeled and deveined with tails on to ensure easy grilling and added flavor from the shell tips.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Acts as the base for the marinade while keeping prawns juicy during grilling.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds an aromatic punch that complements the seafood beautifully.
- Lemon zest and juice (from 1 lemon): Brings brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the prawns.
- Red chilli (1, finely chopped): Provides a gentle heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a touch of herbal freshness and lovely green color.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Infuses a subtle smoky depth enhancing the grilled flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together perfectly.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): Great for an extra splash of citrus at the table.
How to Make BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Prawns
Start by mixing olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and juice, chopped chilli, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is where all the magic begins, infusing the prawns with a harmonious blend of bright, smoky, and spicy notes. Once combined, gently toss the prawns in the marinade until every piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in and create that unforgettable taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While your prawns are soaking up those flavors, preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. This prep ensures a perfect cook and beautiful grill marks that elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Prawns
Thread the marinated prawns onto the skewers, taking care not to crowd them so they cook evenly. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when the prawns turn pink, become opaque, and develop slight charred edges packed with smoky flavor. Keep an eye on them because prawns cook quickly and you want to avoid any rubbery texture.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once grilled to perfection, remove the prawns from the heat immediately to preserve their juicy tenderness. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and sprinkle a bit more chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. These wonderful bites are best enjoyed straight off the grill for maximum flavor impact.
How to Serve BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh lemon wedges and extra chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but enhances the zesty, herbal flavors already present in the prawns. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the taste and presentation.
Side Dishes
This BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving alongside fragrant jasmine rice, a crisp garden salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or rustic crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices. Roasted vegetables or a light couscous salad also complement these prawns perfectly for a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange the grilled prawns on a platter over a bed of mixed greens or serve them in lettuce cups for a fresh seafood appetizer. You can even incorporate the prawns into tacos with salsa and avocado, or toss them into a Mediterranean pasta salad for a satisfying lunch or dinner option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely!), store cooked prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to two days. Keep the lemons separate so the stored prawns don’t lose their texture and freshness.
Freezing
While fresh prawns are always best grilled straight away, you can freeze raw marinated prawns for up to a month. Place them in a sealed freezer bag with the marinade, then thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling. Cooked prawns tend to lose their texture upon freezing, so it’s best to freeze them raw if needed.
Reheating
Reheating grilled prawns requires a gentle touch to avoid toughness. Warm them briefly in a preheated oven at low temperature or quickly toss them in a hot skillet just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the prawns and diminish their delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns to make this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling. Proper thawing helps maintain the juicy texture and ensures even cooking.
How spicy is the chilli in this recipe?
The finely chopped red chilli adds a gentle heat that complements the garlic and lemon without overwhelming the prawns. You can easily adjust the chilli amount to suit your preferred spice level or omit the seeds for a milder version.
What if I don’t have a grill or barbecue?
No worries! You can cook these prawns on a grill pan indoors or even under a hot broiler. Just keep a close watch to prevent overcooking and aim for those lovely char marks as a sign they are ready.
Should I remove the tails before eating?
Most people enjoy eating prawns with the tails on for that extra burst of seafood flavor and a bit of crunch. However, it is perfectly fine to remove them beforehand for easier eating, especially if serving guests.
Can I prepare the marinade mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time, but it’s best to marinate the prawns no longer than 30 minutes before grilling to avoid the acidity from the lemon juice starting to “cook” the prawns and changing their texture.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe is an absolute treasure for any seafood lover or grill enthusiast. Its vibrant flavors and quick preparation make it a perfect go-to for impressive dinners or casual summer gatherings. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy prawns with friends and family!
