Chef John's Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

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Are you looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines the smoky goodness of grilled shrimp with the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs?

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Chef John's Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp
Prep
12 min
Cook
4 min
Total
3 hr
Servings
6

Method

  1. In a mortar and pestle, combine salt, lemon zest, and 3 cloves of garlic. Pound until a paste forms (about 2 minutes).

  2. Add chopped basil, parsley, oregano, and thyme to the mortar and pestle. Pound until the mixture starts to come together (about 5 minutes).

  3. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the herb mixture. Grind until a marinade sauce forms (about 1 minute).

  4. Pour in the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir the mixture with a spoon until well combined, adding more olive oil if needed. The consistency should be thick but pourable.

  5. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and mix in about 2/3 of the sauce, reserving the remaining 1/3 for serving. Stir until the shrimp are evenly coated (about 2 minutes).

  6. Transfer the shrimp to a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours. Cover and refrigerate the remaining sauce.

  7. Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat and lightly oil the grate.

  8. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing each shrimp twice (once through the large part and once through the small part).

  9. Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are bright pink, opaque, and the exterior begins to caramelize.

  10. 10.

About this recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines the smoky goodness of grilled shrimp with the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs? Look no further than Chef John's Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp! This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, sure to impress your family and friends at your next cookout.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

When it comes to grilling shrimp, it's all about the flavors. Chef John's secret lies in his delectable marinade, which infuses the shrimp with a tantalizing mix of garlic and herbs. The garlic adds a rich, savory note, while the herbs bring a fresh and vibrant taste to the dish. Combined with the charred smokiness from the grill, this recipe creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Marinating: The Key to Tasty Shrimp

Marinating is an essential step in this recipe, as it allows the shrimp to soak up all the wonderful flavors from the garlic and herbs. Just like a sponge, the shrimp absorbs the marinade, resulting in a burst of flavor with every bite. So, don't rush this process – give the shrimp enough time to marinate and let the magic happen.

The Grill: Your Best Friend

Grilling is the perfect cooking method for shrimp, as it imparts a delicious smoky flavor and gives the shrimp a slightly charred exterior while keeping them tender and juicy on the inside. Just imagine the sizzling sound of the shrimp hitting the hot grill, the enticing aroma filling the air, and the anticipation of that first bite. It's a sensory experience that will transport you to a culinary paradise.

In Conclusion

Chef John's Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp is a culinary masterpiece that combines the bold flavors of garlic and herbs with the smoky goodness of the grill. The marinade infuses the shrimp with a burst of taste, making every bite a moment of pure delight. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious seafood dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating and grilling.

. How long should I marinate the shrimp?

It's best to marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop fully. However, if you have more time, you can marinate them for up to 2 hours for an even more intense flavor.

. Can I use different herbs in the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or cilantro, to customize the flavor to your liking.

. Can I cook the shrimp on a stovetop instead of a grill?

While grilling is the traditional method for this recipe, you can still achieve delicious results by cooking the shrimp on a stovetop. Simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

. Can I use this marinade for other types of seafood?

Definitely! This marinade works well with various types of seafood, such as scallops or fish fillets. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

. Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it's best to grill the shrimp right before serving for maximum freshness, you can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance to save time. Just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to fire up the grill.

. Can I use this recipe for a vegetarian alternative?

If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can try marinating tofu or grilled vegetables with the garlic and herb marinade. The flavors will still be delicious, and it's a great way to cater to different dietary preferences.

. What sides go well with this dish?

There are plenty of side dishes that pair perfectly with Chef John's Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp. Some popular options include a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Let your creativity guide you and create a well-rounded meal.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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