Thai Grilled Shrimp

This Thai Grilled Shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that brings a taste of Thailand to your dinner table. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight meals, this dish features succulent shrimp marinated in zesty lime juice, spicy Sriracha, and fragrant garlic. Its vibrant flavors and simplicity make it a favorite for gatherings, family dinners, or just a satisfying meal any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lime juice, brown sugar, and Thai chiles creates a perfect sweet and spicy balance.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with coconut rice or a refreshing salad for a complete meal that’s suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories yet high in protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Grill-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor cooking, the grilling process adds a smoky flavor that complements the marinade beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Thai Grilled Shrimp, gather the necessary tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• resealable plastic bag
• grill
• saucepan
• skewers

Importance of Each Tool

• resealable plastic bag: This is essential for marinating the shrimp evenly while keeping cleanup easy.
• grill: A good grill provides high heat for perfect grilling, giving the shrimp that desirable charred flavor.
• saucepan: Used to heat the marinade; this step enhances flavors and ensures safety when basting.
• skewers: Metal skewers are best as they withstand high heat without burning; soaking wooden skewers helps prevent them from catching fire.

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Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 small Thai chile (ribs and seeds removed, minced)
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shrimp

• 1 & 1/2 pounds large shrimp (21-25 count), thawed if frozen, peeled, deveined, tails off

How to Make Thai Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Marinade

Put 1/4 cup each olive oil and lime juice, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 small minced Thai chile, 1 teaspoon coarse salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a large resealable plastic bag; seal and shake to combine.

Step 2: Marinate Shrimp

Add 1 & 1/2 pounds large shrimp to the bag and seal again; toss to coat. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (ideally 1 hour).

Step 3: Preheat Grill

Preheat your grill to high (450 degrees F.).

Step 4: Prepare Marinade for Basting

Remove shrimp from the plastic bag and transfer the marinade to a small saucepan. Place saucepan on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Skewer Shrimp

Thread 4 to 5 shrimp onto metal skewers, leaving some space between each shrimp. If using wood or bamboo skewers, soak them first for at least 30 minutes.

Step 6: Grill Shrimp

Oil the hot grill grates well. Place skewers on them, close the lid, and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Flip the shrimp and baste with some of the reserved marinade; cook for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Thai Grilled Shrimp with coconut rice or pineapple cucumber salad. Enjoy this delicious dish!

How to Serve Thai Grilled Shrimp

Thai Grilled Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal and enhance the flavors of this delightful dish.

Fresh Coconut Rice

• Coconut rice adds a creamy, tropical flavor that complements the shrimp nicely. Simply cook your rice in coconut milk for added richness.

Pineapple Cucumber Salad

• This refreshing salad balances the spice of the shrimp with sweet pineapple and crunchy cucumbers. Toss diced cucumber and pineapple with lime juice for a quick mix.

Spicy Thai Noodle Salad

• A cold noodle salad with a spicy peanut sauce can create an exciting contrast to grilled shrimp. Use rice noodles tossed in sesame oil, cilantro, and crushed peanuts.

Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a smoky flavor that pairs well with the shrimp. Just season them lightly with salt and pepper before grilling.

Avocado Salsa

• A creamy avocado salsa can cool down any heat from the shrimp. Combine diced avocados, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice for a simple yet tasty topping.

Mango Chutney

• This sweet condiment adds a fruity zing that enhances the grilled shrimp perfectly. Spread some on your plate or serve it alongside for dipping.

How to Perfect Thai Grilled Shrimp

Perfecting your Thai Grilled Shrimp can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least an hour (or overnight) deepens the flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh lime juice and garlic will give your marinade a vibrant flavor compared to bottled versions.
• Watch Cooking Time – Cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Skewer Wisely – Leave space between shrimp on skewers to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Grill at High Heat – Preheating your grill ensures a perfect char without drying out the shrimp.
• Baste With Marinade – Basting during cooking adds extra moisture and flavor to your shrimp.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Grilled Shrimp

Complementing your Thai Grilled Shrimp with great side dishes makes for a complete meal experience. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

1. Coconut Rice – The creamy texture of coconut rice enhances the overall flavors beautifully. Cook rice in coconut milk for added richness.
2. Mango Sticky Rice – A classic dessert option that provides sweetness after a savory meal. Just serve sticky rice topped with ripe mango slices.
3. Thai Green Papaya Salad – A spicy salad made from shredded green papaya that adds crunch and tanginess.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables can serve as an appetizer or side dish.
5. Quinoa Salad – A healthy option packed with protein; mix quinoa with herbs, lemon juice, and diced vegetables.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious; steamed broccoli offers a green contrast on your plate.
7. Sweet Potato Fries – These add sweetness and crunch; bake them in the oven for a healthier twist on fries.
8. Cucumber Pickles – Quick pickled cucumbers provide tanginess that pairs well with grilled flavors while adding freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Thai Grilled Shrimp experience even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using unpeeled shrimp: Always peel and devein the shrimp before grilling. This makes them easier to eat and allows the marinade to penetrate better.
• Skipping marination time: Don’t rush the marination process. Allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop; preferably, marinate for an hour.
• Overcrowding the grill: Avoid placing too many skewers on the grill at once. This can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Not preheating the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp. A properly heated grill gives a nice char and prevents sticking.
• Ignoring cooking times: Keep an eye on the shrimp; they cook quickly. Overcooking can make them tough, so aim for just 2-3 minutes per side.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Thai Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thai Grilled Shrimp

• Freeze cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Thai Grilled Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or wrap, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Thai Grilled Shrimp that may help you with your cooking.

What type of shrimp should I use for Thai Grilled Shrimp?

Any large shrimp, such as jumbo or extra-large varieties (21-25 count), work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during grilling.

Can I substitute ingredients in my Thai Grilled Shrimp?

Yes! You can customize the marinade by adding different spices or using lime zest for extra flavor.

How do I know when my Thai Grilled Shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and form a nice C shape. They typically take about 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating and grilling for best results.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill during cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Grilled Shrimp recipe is not only easy and quick but also packed with flavor. The combination of lime juice, garlic, and chili creates a deliciously vibrant dish that pairs well with various sides like coconut rice or salads. Feel free to customize your marinade with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences!