Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

This marinated grilled shrimp recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! With a simple marinade of garlic, olive oil, fresh basil, and a hint of spice, these shrimp are perfectly seasoned and ready in no time. Ideal for grilling, this recipe produces juicy, tender shrimp with a delicious charred flavor. Great for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or any occasion, these grilled shrimp skewers are a crowd favorite. Serve them as a main dish, with rice or vegetables, or add to salads and pasta for a flavorful twist. Try this easy marinated shrimp recipe for a tasty and healthy meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, tomato sauce, red wine vinegar, chopped basil, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to blend.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat all sides. Cover and refrigerate for up to one hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Grill the Shrimp:
   • Preheat your grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, and grill for about 3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and slightly charred.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the shrimp from the grill, serve hot, and enjoy the delicious flavors!

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Tips

• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
• Do Not Over-Marinate: Shrimp only need about an hour to marinate; longer times can make them mushy.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil provides the best flavor, but dried basil can be used if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add more cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a refreshing citrus note.
• Herb Swap: Substitute basil with parsley, cilantro, or even rosemary for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?
The shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque with slightly charred edges, usually after 3 minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the shrimp over a bed of rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add them to a fresh salad for a light, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinated grilled shrimp recipe combines bold, fresh flavors with a quick, easy preparation. The garlic and basil marinade gives the shrimp a deliciously savory taste, and grilling brings out their natural sweetness. Perfect for barbecues, gatherings, or a simple weeknight meal, these shrimp skewers are a guaranteed hit!