BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor, super quick to make, and perfect for those sunny days when you want something delicious on the grill, then these BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon, and Chilli are exactly what you need. Imagine juicy prawns with a smoky, charred exterior, infused with garlic, zesty lemon, and a little kick from the chilli—every bite is an explosion of bold, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, having a casual dinner, or just craving a quick seafood fix, these prawns are guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Here’s why these prawns should be on your grill menu:

• Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chilli creates a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy notes that make the prawns totally irresistible.
• Quick & Easy: You can marinate the prawns for just 15 minutes, and they cook in no time, making this a fantastic choice for a speedy meal.
• Grill-Worthy: If you love outdoor grilling, this recipe is a must. The prawns get that smoky, charred flavor that only grilling can give.
• Customizable Heat: You control the level of heat in this recipe, so whether you love things mild or spicy, you can adjust the chilli to your taste.
• Healthy & Light: Prawns are a lean protein that’s both satisfying and light, making this dish a great choice for a healthy meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these juicy BBQ Grilled Prawns:

• Prawns: Large, fresh prawns are ideal for grilling. Peel them, leaving the tails on for easy handling.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fragrant, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the prawns.
• Lemon: Both lemon zest and juice are used in this recipe to bring a refreshing, tangy brightness to the prawns.
• Chilli: Fresh red chilli peppers for a bit of spice, or you can use dried red chilli flakes for a milder heat.
• Olive Oil: Helps coat the prawns and keeps them juicy on the grill.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Coriander): For a burst of freshness once the prawns are cooked.
• Salt & Pepper: To season everything to perfection.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to grill? Here’s how to make these BBQ Grilled Prawns:

Marinate the Prawns

Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, finely chopped fresh chilli (or chilli flakes), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the prawns in the marinade, making sure they’re evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15-20 minutes—longer if you have time to let the flavors infuse.

Preheat the Grill

While the prawns are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing and evenly distributed.

Grill the Prawns

Once the grill is ready, thread the prawns onto skewers or place them directly on the grill grates. Grill the prawns for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as prawns cook quickly and can become tough if left on the grill too long.

Garnish & Serve

Once grilled to perfection, remove the prawns from the grill and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley or coriander for a burst of color and freshness. Serve them immediately, and if you like, drizzle with a little extra lemon juice for a zesty finish.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon, & Chilli:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 200 calories
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 190mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Vitamin A: 8%
• Vitamin C: 30%
• Calcium: 10%
• Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15-20 minutes marinating time)
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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

These prawns can be served in a variety of ways to suit your meal:

• With Grilled Veggies: Serve the prawns alongside grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob for a complete BBQ feast.
• On a Salad: Toss the grilled prawns on top of a fresh green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light, healthy meal.
• With Rice or Couscous: Pair with a side of fluffy rice or couscous for a more filling dish.
• On a Bun: Make it a fun meal by serving the prawns on a toasted bun with some aioli and crunchy slaw.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the prawns as a starter or party appetizer with a spicy dipping sauce.

Additional Tips

• Make it Extra Zesty: Add a little lemon zest on top of the prawns just before serving to enhance that citrusy zing.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like things spicy, add more fresh chilli or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade. For a milder version, use less chilli or remove the seeds.
• Skewer the Prawns: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, just double the amount of prawns and marinade. These prawns are always a hit!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

A1: Yes, you can use frozen prawns, but make sure they’re fully thawed before marinating and grilling them for the best texture.

Q2: How long should I marinate the prawns?

A2: You can marinate the prawns for as little as 15 minutes, but letting them sit for 30 minutes to an hour will allow the flavors to infuse even more.

Q3: Can I cook these prawns in a pan instead of on the grill?

A3: Absolutely! You can cook them in a hot pan on the stove over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

Q4: Can I use other seafood instead of prawns?

A4: Yes! This marinade works wonderfully with shrimp, scallops, or even fish fillets like cod or salmon.

Q5: How do I prevent the prawns from overcooking on the grill?

A5: Prawns cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. If you’re using skewers, make sure not to overcrowd them, as it will affect even cooking.

Q6: Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

A6: Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the prawns to the marinade when you’re ready to cook.

Q7: What’s the best way to serve these prawns at a party?

A7: Serve them as an appetizer on a platter with lemon wedges and dipping sauces like garlic butter or spicy mayo. They’re perfect for finger food!

Q8: Can I make this dish without the chilli?

A8: Yes, you can skip the chilli if you prefer a milder version. The garlic and lemon will still provide plenty of flavor.

Q9: How can I store leftovers?

A9: Store leftover prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

Q10: How do I make this dish gluten-free?

A10: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to make any changes to the ingredients. Just be sure to check any store-bought sauces or marinades you might use.

Conclusion

These BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. With minimal prep time and a grill-ready approach, this dish is both easy to make and sure to impress anyone at your next gathering or BBQ. Whether you serve them with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or just as a fun appetizer, these prawns are guaranteed to become your new go-to grilled seafood recipe. Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite—happy grilling!

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