Name: Savor the Summer: Quick BBQ Grilled Prawns Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 500 grams Prawns (Use the freshest prawns available for best flavor.); 4 tablespoons Olive Oil (High-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds richness.); 3 cloves Garlic (Lightly toast to avoid bitterness.); 1 teaspoon Chili (Omit for milder dish or adjust to taste.); 1 each Lemon (Use both juice and zest for maximum brightness.)

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As the sun sets on a warm evening, the aroma of BBQ Grilled Prawns wafts through the air, evoking memories of sun-soaked summers and laughter-filled gatherings. With just five simple ingredients, this dish marries garlic, lemon, and a hint of chili to create a flavor that’s as vibrant as the occasion itself. These prawns are not only quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—but they also promise to elevate your summer entertaining game. Imagine serving up succulent prawns that not only dazzle the taste buds but are also gluten-free and utterly satisfying. Ready to fire up the grill and indulge in a taste sensation that will have your friends and family talking? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why are BBQ Grilled Prawns a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant dish on your table, thanks to the simplicity of the five ingredients.

Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and optional chili creates a zesty explosion that’s perfect for summer.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with these succulent grilled prawns that evoke memories of beachside feasts.

Gluten-Free: Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that fits various dietary needs.

Customizable: Adjust the chili to your spice preference or experiment with fresh herbs for a personalized touch. For more mouthwatering ideas, check out our Grilled Teriyaki Tofu and Korean Ramen Grilled recipes!

BBQ Grilled Prawns Ingredients

• Discover the simplicity behind these BBQ Grilled Prawns!

For the Marinade

Prawns – Use the freshest prawns available for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
Olive Oil – High-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds richness to your marinade.
Garlic – Lightly toast this ingredient to avoid bitterness and enhance its depth of flavor.
Chilli – Omit this if you prefer a milder dish, or adjust to taste for a spicy kick.
Lemon – Incorporate both juice and zest for maximum brightness and acidity in your prawns.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill to a high temperature of around 280°C (550°F). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect char on your BBQ Grilled Prawns. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Once heated, you’ll see a faint shimmer of heat rising, indicating that it’s ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil, minced garlic, chopped chilli (if you prefer a kick of spice), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Aim for a well-blended mix that’s aromatic and vibrant. The combination should create a tantalizing marinade that coats the prawns beautifully. This will enhance the flavors of your BBQ Grilled Prawns, making them irresistible.

Step 3: Coat the Prawns
Take your fresh prawns and add them to the marinade, tossing them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Allow them to soak up the flavors for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This step is essential to infuse the prawns with the rich garlic and lemon notes, ensuring a flavor-packed bite when grilled.

Step 4: Grill the Prawns
Once your prawns have marinated, place them directly on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, turning them carefully to avoid breaking. Watch for the prawns to turn a lovely pinky-orange color and the meat to become pearly white, indicating they are perfectly cooked. This quick grilling process keeps them juicy and tender.

Step 5: Serve with Style
After grilling, carefully remove the prawns from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Present them with wedges of fresh lemon and crusty bread alongside for dipping. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma of BBQ Grilled Prawns will surely captivate your guests, creating a delightful centerpiece for any summer gathering.

Storage Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Room Temperature: BBQ Grilled Prawns are best enjoyed immediately after grilling for peak freshness and flavor. If left out, consume within 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid toughening the prawns.
Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze leftover prawns for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, use a non-stick skillet on low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Heat just until warmed through, avoiding overcooking to retain tenderness.

BBQ Grilled Prawns Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make these BBQ Grilled Prawns your own with these delightful variations!

No Chilli: Omit the chilli for a milder dish that still bursts with flavor, allowing the garlic and lemon to shine.
Herb Infusion: Swap out garlic for fresh herbs like cilantro or dill to add a refreshing twist. The choice will elevate your dish with fragrant notes.
Citrus Boost: Add lime juice and zest alongside the lemon for a zesty citrus explosion. This vibrant combination will invigorate every bite.
Honey Drizzle: For a touch of sweetness, brush a little honey on the prawns just before grilling. It caramelizes beautifully, adding a unique flavor.
Spicy Upgrade: If you crave heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños in the marinade. This will take your prawns to the next level of flavor.
Texture Twist: Serve alongside a crunchy side like a fresh coleslaw or grilled corn salad for delightful contrasts in texture. The crispness balances the succulent prawns beautifully.
Flavor Fusion: For a twist on the marinade, mix in a touch of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce, reminiscent of Grilled Teriyaki Tofu. It adds a savory depth that’s simply irresistible.
Served on Skewers: Thread the prawns onto skewers for fun presentation and easier grilling. Don’t forget to soak the skewers in water first to prevent burning!

Explore these variations, and let your creativity flow—your friends and family will love every tasty bite! And for more exciting ideas, check out our Korean Ramen Grilled recipe for a thrilling fusion twist.

What to Serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns?

Nothing makes summer gatherings shimmer quite like the irresistible aroma of grilled prawns, perfectly complemented by delectable sides and refreshing drinks.

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad adds a beautiful contrast to the smoky prawns and cools down the palate.
Garlic Butter Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the delicious, garlicky marinade from the prawns. Each bite is a taste sensation!
Greek Salad: With fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and tangy feta, this colorful salad brings vibrant flavors that enhance the seafood experience.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn drizzled with butter offers a satisfying bite and a hint of sweetness to balance the garlic and spices.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc will elevate your prawn dish, matching its fresh ingredients while refreshing the taste buds.
Fruit Skewers: Skewers filled with watermelon, pineapple, and strawberries provide a juicy contrast, cooling off any lingering heat from the chili.
Lemon Sorbet: As a light, refreshing dessert, lemon sorbet perfectly echoes the citrusy notes of the prawns. Serve it in chilled bowls for an elegant finish!

Expert Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Fresh Prawns Matter: Always choose the freshest prawns available. Frozen prawns may lose their texture and flavor during cooking.
Hot Grill: Preheat your grill to a high temperature (around 280°C) to achieve beautiful caramelization on the prawns and seal in juices.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye while grilling. Prawns cook quickly; a minute too long can make them rubbery—aim for a pinky-orange color and pearly white meat.
Perfect Garlic Toasting: Lightly toast garlic until golden; burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of your BBQ Grilled Prawns.
Customize Spice Levels: If heat isn’t your thing, adjust the chili to suit your taste or omit it entirely for a milder dish that still packs a tasty punch.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Grilled Prawns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the prawns up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the garlic and lemon to infuse deeply, resulting in delightful taste while keeping them juicy. Just combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, and, if desired, chopped chilli in a bowl. Toss the prawns in this marinade and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the grill and cook the prawns for 2-4 minutes per side until they turn pinky-orange. This make-ahead tip ensures you enjoy succulent BBQ Grilled Prawns with minimal effort, giving you more time to relax and entertain!

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting prawns?
Absolutely! When selecting prawns, ensure they are fresh. Look for prawns that have a clean, ocean-like smell and a firm, slightly translucent flesh. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong fishy odor. If possible, opt for prawns with their shells on as they tend to retain more flavor and moisture during cooking.

How do I store leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns?
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to consume them immediately for optimal taste. If you must store them, place the prawns in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 1 day. To reheat, gently warm them on a low setting to avoid toughening.

Can I freeze BBQ Grilled Prawns?
Yes! You can freeze leftover prawns for up to 2 months. To do this, place the prawns in a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and ensure they are sealed tightly. When you are ready to enjoy them, thaw the prawns in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, use a non-stick skillet on low heat with a splash of olive oil to keep them moist.

What should I do if I accidentally overcook the prawns?
Overcooked prawns can indeed become rubbery, but don’t worry! If you find that you have a batch that’s slightly overdone, try marinating them again in a little olive oil and lemon juice for about 15 minutes (without any heat). This can help infuse some moisture back into them, and serve them over a light pasta or salad to help mask any toughness.

Are BBQ Grilled Prawns suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Very! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure any accompaniments or sauces you serve with your prawns are also gluten-free. Enjoy a delicious, worry-free meal with your friends and family!

Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the chilli altogether from the marinade. Alternatively, you can use a smaller amount of chilli or choose a milder variety, like red pepper flakes, adjusting the quantity to find that perfect spice level that suits your palate. Enjoy experimenting!