BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

These BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of fresh garlic, zesty lemon, and a hint of spice makes these prawns irresistible. With just five simple ingredients and a quick cooking time of 30 minutes, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a meal with family, these prawns will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chilli creates a mouthwatering marinade that enhances the taste of the prawns.
• Healthy Option: Grilled prawns are low in calories yet high in protein, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these prawns as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a seafood platter for an elegant touch.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just five key ingredients, you can whip up this dish without needing to stock your pantry with complicated items.

Tools and Preparation

To make your BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli perfectly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some must-haves that will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Charcoal BBQ grill
• Grill tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Pan for sauce
• Grater
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Charcoal BBQ grill: Provides the best flavor through charcoal grilling, giving your prawns that delicious smoky taste.
• Grill tongs: Essential for safely flipping and removing hot prawns from the grill without damaging them.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly before applying them to the prawns.

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Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1-2 chillies
• 1 lemon – juice and zest

For the Prawns

• 8 large Prawns (prepared with shells still on but vein removed)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 Tbsp / 2g fresh parsley

For Serving

• Fresh lemon wedges
• Fresh crusty bread of your choice for dipping in the sauce

For BBQ Setup

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

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

Step 1: Prepare Your BBQ

Get your fire started by placing a few firelighters into the bottom grill of the BBQ. Once they are alight, top with charcoal, piling it in the middle to create concentrated heat.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

While your BBQ heats up:
1. Add olive oil to a pan.
2. Grate in the cloves of garlic.
3. Finely slice the chillies using a sharp knife and add them to the pan.
4. Fry over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
5. Add lemon zest and juice; cook gently until garlic is no longer raw.

Step 3: Marinate the Prawns

Pour half of the olive oil and garlic mixture over the cleaned prawns.
1. Massage it under their shell so they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Check Your Coals

Make sure your coals are white hot with no black areas left visible. Place a clean grill over them to get ready for cooking.

Step 5: Grill Your Prawns

Once your coals are ready:
1. Place prawns on the grill; they should sizzle immediately.
2. Cook until slightly charred on each side (about 45 seconds to 1 minute).
3. If flames flare up from dripping oil, sprinkle water gently from a glass.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Once shells turn pinky-orange and meat is pearl white:
1. Remove them from the grill.
2. Pour over remaining garlic, lemon, and chilli sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately alongside optional lemon wedges and fresh crusty bread for dipping in that flavorful sauce!

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

Serving BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and creating a memorable dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these prawns.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the grilled prawns right before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic and chili sauce. This adds a delightful texture contrast.

On a Bed of Greens

• Present the prawns on a bed of mixed greens or arugula for a fresh and vibrant look. Drizzle some olive oil for added flavor.

Paired with Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as aioli or a spicy mayo, to complement the grilled prawns.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the prawns for a touch of color and freshness. This elevates the dish visually and tastefully.

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

Perfecting BBQ Grilled Prawns requires attention to detail and timing. Follow these tips for mouth-watering results every time.

• Choose large prawns: Opt for large, fresh prawns for better flavor and texture. They hold up well to grilling without drying out.

• Marinate longer: Allow the prawns to marinate in the garlic and olive oil mixture for at least 15 minutes before grilling. This enhances the flavor depth.

• Watch your grill temperature: Ensure your BBQ grill is hot enough before placing the prawns on it. A high temperature helps achieve that perfect char.

• Avoid overcooking: Cook the prawns just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and chewy.

• Baste while grilling: Brush the prawns with leftover marinade while they cook. This keeps them moist and flavorful throughout the grilling process.

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

Pairing side dishes with BBQ Grilled Prawns enhances your meal further. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic complements the prawns beautifully and absorbs all those tasty flavors.

2. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the grilled prawns.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to warm grilled seafood.

5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory prawns.

6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that complements any grilled dish.

7. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds a refreshing crunch that lightens up the meal.

8. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese makes for an aromatic side dish bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid and tips on how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the prawns: Prawns cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque to maintain their tenderness.
• Ignoring the marinade time: Allowing the prawns to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances their flavor. Skipping this step can lead to bland results.
• Using too much heat: While you want a good char, excessive heat can burn the prawns. Adjust your grill temperature accordingly to achieve a perfect balance.
• Not cleaning the grill: A dirty grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always clean it before grilling to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness to your dish. Omitting it can result in a less vibrant flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for best quality.

Freezing BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place prawns on a baking sheet and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly sauté the prawns for 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

A simple mix of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, zest, and chopped chillies offers great flavor. Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your taste.

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling for even cooking.

How long do I need to marinate BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

Marinate for at least 15 minutes but no more than an hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate without making the prawns mushy.

What sides pair well with BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread complement this dish nicely. Consider serving with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices or herbs you enjoy. You can also swap out prawns for other seafood like shrimp or scallops.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. This versatile dish can be customized with different spices or sides according to your preference. Try it at your next gathering or as a simple weeknight meal!