Easy Spicy Grilled Shrimp

Why Grill Shrimp?

Shrimp is one of my favorite kinds of seafood to grill. I usually buy the jumbo shrimp in the large bag at Costco. They keep well in the freezer and, when I need something quick to put on the table, they are always there. They are just the perfect size for the grill as they don't overcook as easily as the smaller ones.

These spicy grilled shrimp are marinated just long enough to get a nice kick of heat from the cajun spices and a nonstick coating from the olive oil.

Many people think shrimp are hard to cook correctly on the grill. However, with the simple tips I have included below, you'll be a top shrimp griller the next time you turn on the gas. Make sure your sides are pretty much done before putting on the shrimp since they only take a few minutes to cook.

Tips and Tricks for Grilling Shrimp

• Buy the shrimp on the day you are planning to grill or opt for frozen shrimp.
• For the best results, use extra large, jumbo, or colossal shrimp. I like to use jumbo for this recipe.
• When marinating shrimp with an acidic marinade, i.e. one using citrus juices, plan no longer than 30 minutes at the most. This prevents the acid from breaking down the proteins in the shrimp, which can cause them to be mushy. If using an olive oil and herb-based marinade, up to an hour is fine.
• Do you know when your shrimp are perfectly cooked? Follow this general rule: Straight shrimp is undercooked, O-shaped shrimp is overcooked and rubbery, while C-shaped shrimp is perfection!

Ingredients for Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp

Here's what you'll need for the best grilled shrimp marinade:

• Fresh lime juice
• Olive oil
• Cajun spice mix
• Ground black pepper
• Sriracha
• Garlic cloves

And, of course, you'll need shrimp - large is best.

Best Seasoning for Grilled Shrimp

For this marinated grilled shrimp recipe, your favorite Cajun spice blend is a good seasoning for grilled shrimp. If you don't have a favorite, I recommend Emeril's cajun seasoning.

For grilled creole shrimp, use Tony Chachere's creole seasoning. You can also blacken seasoning or change it up with a Mexican seasoning blend.

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Skewers

1. Combine olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and spices in a resealable ziptop bag that is large enough to hold the shrimp too. Add shrimp and place it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. Turn halfway through time to make sure all sides are coated.

2. Take the shrimp out of the marinade and discard the marinade. Thread shrimp on skewers making sure to attach both the top and the tail.

3. Preheat the grill and place the shrimp directly over medium heat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side (depending on the size of shrimp used) then remove immediately and serve. Check out the tips above for a good visual way to tell if shrimp are done.

Just look at those delicious grilled shrimp skewers, perfectly cooked, and ready to devour! And that spicy, smoky flavor is bound to have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds).

What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp

Serve cajun grilled shrimp as an appetizer with some grilled shrimp sauce. Remoulade or cocktail sauce are great options.

Make a delicious grilled shrimp dinner. There are lots of healthy grilled shrimp meals you can easily prepare. Here are some ideas:

Grilled Shrimp Sides

• Grits - The quintessential pairing for cajun shrimp.
• Rice - White or cauliflower rice.
• Vegetables - Grilled corn on the cob is especially great with shrimp.

Grilled Shrimp Dinner

• Grilled Shrimp Pasta with cajun alfredo sauce.
• Grilled Shrimp Salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Grilled Shrimp Tacos or Burritos
• Grilled Shrimp and Steak

How to Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp

After grilling your shrimp, allow it to cool down to room temperature before storing it. You can keep grilled shrimp in the refrigerator for up to three days, but make sure to store it properly.

Place the shrimp in an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing it. This will help prevent the shrimp from drying out and losing its flavor.

To freeze leftover grilled shrimp, place it in an airtight container or a plastic freezer bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing it. Label the container or bag with the date. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

To thaw frozen grilled shrimp, you can either transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight or use the quick-thaw method by placing the shrimp in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure that the shrimp thaws evenly.

How to Reheat Grilled Shrimp

To reheat grilled shrimp, there are a few options available:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the grilled shrimp in a baking dish and add a tablespoon of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 10 minutes or until the shrimp is heated through.

Microwave Method: Place the grilled shrimp in a microwave-safe dish and add a tablespoon of water or broth. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the shrimp from drying out. Microwave on medium for about 30 seconds to a minute or until heated through.

Grilling Method: If you want to keep the grilled flavor, you can also reheat the shrimp on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat and brush the shrimp with a little bit of oil. Grill for about 2 minutes on each side or until heated through.

More Easy Grilling Recipes

Grilled Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Filet Mignon with Herb Butter

Pineapple Pork Chops on the grill

Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa

Find more delicious grilling recipes on 2CM!