BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

These BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are a summer delight that will elevate any gathering! Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a casual dinner at home, this recipe brings the flavors of the grill to your table in just 30 minutes. With only a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy succulent prawns infused with aromatic garlic and zesty lemon, making it an unforgettable dish for all seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal preparation and can be ready in just half an hour.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chili creates a refreshing yet bold taste that perfectly complements the prawns.
• Versatile Serving Options: These grilled prawns can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer at gatherings.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats from olive oil, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Summer: Ideal for outdoor cooking, these prawns bring a taste of summer to your plate no matter the occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth grilling experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• BBQ grill
• Firelighters
• Charcoal
• Grill tongs
• Pan for sauce preparation

Importance of Each Tool

• BBQ grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor that makes grilled prawns irresistible.
• Grill tongs: Helps you flip the prawns easily without losing their delicate texture.
• Firelighters: Ensures a quick and effective way to ignite your charcoal for grilling.

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Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 cloves of garlic

For the Prawns

• 8 large Prawns (prepared with shells still on but vein removed)
• 1-2 chillies

For Serving

• 1 Tbsp / 2g fresh parsley
• 1 lemon – juice and zest
• Fresh lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh crusty bread of your choice for dipping in the sauce

For the BBQ Setup

• Firelighters
• Charcoal
• Matches or lighter
• Glass of water

How to Make BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Step 1: Prepare the BBQ

Start by placing a few firelighters into the bottom grill of your BBQ. Once they are lit, top them with charcoal, forming a pile in the middle to create concentrated heat.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

While your BBQ heats up, prepare the sauce:
– Add the olive oil to a pan.
– Grate in the cloves of garlic.
– Finely slice the chillies using a sharp knife and add them to the pan.
– Fry over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
– Add in the zest and juice of the lemon; cook gently until garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

Step 3: Marinate the Prawns

Pour half of your olive oil mixture over the cleaned prawns. Gently massage it under their shells so every prawn is well coated in flavor.

Step 4: Check Your Coals

Once your coals are white hot with no black areas left, place a clean grill over them—this means we’re ready to cook!

Step 5: Grill Your Prawns

When your coals are hot enough that they sizzle upon contact with prawns:
– Place them on the grill carefully.
– Cook until slightly charred on one side (about 45 seconds to 1 minute).
– Flip them over and cook until shells turn pinky-orange and meat turns pearl white.

Step 6: Serve Them Up!

Once done, transfer prawns onto a clean tray. Pour over remaining garlic, lemon, and chilli sauce. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges and fresh crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your delightful BBQ Grilled Prawns!

How to Serve BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Serving BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is all about enhancing the delightful flavors of the dish. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious meal.

Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Lemon wedges add a burst of fresh citrus flavor. Squeeze them over the prawns just before eating for an extra zing.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with fresh crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic and lemon sauce. It makes for a satisfying combination that guests will love.

Green Salad

• A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the prawns. Use fresh greens like arugula or spinach for added flavor.

Rice Pilaf

• Pair the prawns with a fragrant rice pilaf seasoned with herbs. This dish adds a nice texture and absorbs the sauce beautifully.

Dipping Sauce

• Offer a dipping sauce made from olive oil, herbs, and lemon for those who prefer an extra layer of flavor. It pairs perfectly with grilled seafood.

Grilled Vegetables

• Add grilled vegetables on the side for a colorful and nutritious complement. Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus work wonderfully when lightly charred.

How to Perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

To ensure your BBQ Grilled Prawns are perfect every time, follow these handy tips to elevate your grilling game.

• Choose fresh prawns: Fresh prawns provide better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Look for prawns that are firm and have a mild ocean scent.

• Marinate properly: Allow the prawns to marinate in the garlic and olive oil mixture for at least 15 minutes. This lets the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.

• Control grill temperature: Ensure your grill is hot enough before adding prawns. They should sizzle immediately upon contact for that ideal charred taste.

• Watch cooking time: Cook prawns just until they turn pink and opaque (about 1-2 minutes per side). Overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.

• Use skewers: If using smaller prawns, consider threading them onto skewers for easier handling on the grill. This also helps prevent them from falling through the grates.

• Garnish wisely: Finish your dish with fresh parsley or additional lemon zest just before serving. This adds a vibrant touch that brightens up the presentation.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Pairing side dishes with BBQ Grilled Prawns enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options you can serve alongside this scrumptious dish:

1. Garlic Herb Quinoa: A light quinoa dish tossed with garlic and fresh herbs provides a nutritious base that complements the prawns beautifully.

2. Mediterranean Couscous Salad: This refreshing salad features couscous mixed with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese—perfect for balancing flavors.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add sweetness, which pairs well with the spicy kick from the chillies in the prawns.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots offers crunchiness and acidity that brightens each bite of grilled prawn.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn grilled to perfection brings a smoky sweetness that works well alongside seafood dishes like these prawns.

6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make for a healthy pasta alternative that absorbs flavors effectively.

7. Herbed Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a hearty side that pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

8. Caprese Salad Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls paired with cherry tomatoes and basil on skewers offer a refreshing bite that complements grilled flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the prawns: Cooking prawns for too long can make them rubbery. Aim for 45 seconds to 1 minute on each side until they are pink and slightly charred.

• Using unseasoned oil: Failing to season your olive oil can result in bland prawns. Always add garlic and chillies to enhance the flavor of your marinade.

• Not preheating the grill: Placing prawns on a grill that isn’t hot enough will lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Ensure coals are white hot before grilling.

• Ignoring safety measures: It’s easy to get caught up in cooking and forget about safety. Keep a glass of water handy in case of flare-ups while grilling.

• Skipping the marination step: Rushing through the marination process can mean missing out on deeper flavors. Allow at least 10 minutes for the marinade to penetrate the prawns.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover prawns in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Place prawns in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat prawns for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over low heat and warm through for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli:

How do I know when my prawns are done?

Prawns are done when they turn pink and opaque. A slight char on the outside adds flavor but avoid burning them.

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling.

What can I serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

They pair well with fresh salads, rice dishes, or crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce.

How do I customize my BBQ Grilled Prawns?

Feel free to add herbs like cilantro or spices like paprika for added depth of flavor according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is an excellent dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!