Name: Savory BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Zesty Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (A high-quality olive oil enhances flavor.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced; remember to lightly toast to avoid bitterness.); 1 pinch Chilli (Adds heat; omit for a milder dish.); 1 whole Lemon (Both zest and juice brighten the dish.); 500 grams Prawns (Use the freshest prawns available.)

As I stood by the grill, the sun casting warm rays on my shoulders, the alluring aroma of my BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli enveloped the air. There’s something magical about grilling in summer, and these juicy prawns, kissed by heat and enhanced with a zesty marinade, epitomize that joy. With just five simple ingredients, this dish is not only a quick and easy way to impress guests but also a delightful solution for those of us who crave flavorful home-cooked meals without the fuss of long prep times. Whether you’re gathering friends for a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy evening with family, these grilled prawns promise to elevate your summer entertaining game. Ready to turn up the heat in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this vibrant, seafood delight!

Why are These Prawns a Must-Try?

Simplicity: With just five ingredients, this dish is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Juicy Flavors: Each prawn is marinated to perfection, delivering a stunning mix of garlic, lemon, and a hint of spice, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for summer entertaining, these BBQ grilled prawns will impress your guests, just like my Homemade Grilled Octopus did at my last outdoor bash!

Quick Cooking: In less than 30 minutes, you’ll serve up delightful, perfectly grilled prawns that achieve a beautiful char while retaining their juiciness.

Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute with shrimp or add herbs for a personal touch, making this recipe endlessly adaptable to your palate.

BBQ Grilled Prawns Ingredients

For the Marinade

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps cook the garlic.
Garlic – Provides an aromatic depth; remember to lightly toast to avoid bitterness.
Chilli – Adds a kick of heat; feel free to omit for a milder BBQ grilled prawns experience.
Lemon – Both zest and juice brighten up the dish, balancing the rich prawns.

For the Prawns

Prawns – The star of the show! Use the freshest prawns available for the best flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Step 1: Preheat the Barbecue
Start by preheating your barbecue to a blazing hot temperature of around 280°C (hot coals). This high heat is essential to achieve that perfect char on the prawns. Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking, which will help create beautifully grilled BBQ prawns.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine high-quality extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, chopped chilli (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir the ingredients together well, creating a fragrant marinade that will infuse the prawns with flavor. This mixture will be the heart of your BBQ grilled prawns, so make sure it’s well blended.

Step 3: Marinate the Prawns
Add the fresh prawns to the bowl with your tasty marinade. Toss them gently to ensure each prawn is well coated with the zesty mixture. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes at room temperature, letting the prawns soak up those delicious flavors while the grill heats up perfectly.

Step 4: Grill the Prawns
Once marinated, place the prawns on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-4 minutes on each side, watching closely until the shells turn a beautiful pinky-orange and the meat becomes pearly white. This quick cooking time ensures your BBQ grilled prawns remain tender and juicy, enhancing their mouthwatering flavor.

Step 5: Serve Your Delight
Remove the prawns from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Serve them immediately with fresh lemon wedges alongside some crusty bread for dipping. The vibrant colors and aromas of your BBQ grilled prawns will instantly invite everyone to gather and enjoy this simple yet delicious dish.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Grilled Prawns

Fridge: Store leftover BBQ grilled prawns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, place prawns in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking to retain their juicy texture.

Freezer: If you need to freeze them, ensure prawns are completely cooled, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, you can refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Use it as a dressing for salads or as a dip for grilled veggies.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy evenings! You can marinate the prawns up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the marinade ingredients, toss in the prawns, and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the marinade separately and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring freshness. When you’re ready to grill, simply take the marinated prawns out of the fridge and grill them for 2-4 minutes on each side. This method ensures your BBQ grilled prawns remain just as delicious, impressively flavorful, and ready to wow your guests with minimal effort when it counts most!

What to Serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns

Looking to complete your summer dining experience? Here are some delightful pairings that will enhance those mouthwatering barbecue flavors.

Zesty Pasta Salad: A refreshing blend of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette to contrast with the rich prawns.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred and sweet, this classic summer side adds a smoky element and a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Packed with fresh veggies and herbs, it brings a colorful, nutritious crunch that complements the prawns beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory juices from the prawns, its crispy texture creates a delightful contrast.
Crisp Green Salad: A light mix of greens, dressed simply, gives a refreshing bite that pairs wonderfully with the richness of grilled prawns.
Chilled White Wine: Opt for a Sauvignon Blanc; its acidity and citrus notes will lift the flavors of the dish.
Lemon Sorbet: As a light dessert, it cleanses the palate and is a refreshing finale after the savory experience.
Fruit Skewers: Seasonal fruits like watermelon and pineapple add a sweet, juicy touch, enhancing summer vibes after the main event.

BBQ Grilled Prawns Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these BBQ grilled prawns; there are so many delightful twists you can explore!

Shrimp Switch: Replace prawns with succulent shrimp for a slightly sweeter bite, while still capturing that perfect grill char.
Citrus Change: Swap lemon for lime or orange for a tropical flair, adding a refreshing twist to your barbecue experience.
Herb Upgrade: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill in your marinade for an aromatic boost that tantalizes the senses.
Spice Level: Increase the chili for those who crave a fiery kick or try adding smoked paprika for a mild yet smoky flavor enhancement.
Fish Alternative: Substitute prawns with firm white fish like salmon or sea bass—just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep them tender.
Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian version, marinate and grill large mushrooms or zucchini slices, imparting them with the same delectable flavors.
Garlic Infusion: Replace fresh garlic with roasted garlic for a smoother, sweeter taste, elevating the dish’s overall depth of flavor.
Tropical Twist: Mix in coconut cream to the marinade for a creamy consistency and tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with citrus flavors.

These variations invite you to customize your BBQ grilled prawns to suit your taste! If you’re feeling adventurous with shellfish, don’t miss out on my Homemade Grilled Octopus—another fantastic seafood option that’ll wow your guests. Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Freshness Matters: Use the freshest prawns you can find for the best flavor; frozen prawns can impact the taste and texture negatively.
Marination Time: Don’t skimp on marinating time! Allowing the prawns to soak for at least 10 minutes will help infuse them with delicious garlic and lemon flavors.
Watch the Heat: Ensure your barbecue is very hot before grilling; this helps achieve that perfect char without overcooking the prawns.
Avoid Overcooking: Remove prawns from the heat as soon as they turn opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery and lose their juicy texture.
Customization: Feel free to adjust the level of chili to suit your heat preference, making this BBQ grilled prawns dish tailored to your taste!

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe FAQs

Which prawns should I use?
Always opt for the freshest prawns you can find, ideally sourced from a trusted fishmonger. Look for firm, translucent shells with a slight sheen. Avoid prawns with dark spots or a strong ammonia smell, as these can indicate age.

How can I store leftover prawns?
Store your leftover BBQ grilled prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They should be kept under cold temperatures to maintain texture and flavor. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes to retain their juiciness.

Can I freeze grilled prawns?
Absolutely! If you need to freeze them, ensure the prawns are completely cooled. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed, and they will keep well for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply remove from the freezer and let them sit in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my prawns turn rubbery?
To prevent rubbery prawns, avoid overcooking them on the grill. They should be removed once they turn opaque and pinky-orange, which typically takes 2-4 minutes on each side. If they are rubbery, it may be due to prolonged cooking or frozen prawns being used that are not fresh.

Is this recipe suitable for allergies?
This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you have allergies to shellfish, it’s essential to avoid this recipe entirely. Additionally, the chili can be omitted for a milder flavor if spice sensitivity is a concern.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It works beautifully as a dressing for salads or even as a dip for grilled veggies, ensuring you have a burst of flavor on hand when you need it!