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Perfect Shrimp Marinade

shrimp glaze

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon or lime zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium glass bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
  2. Add any optional ingredients you’re using (honey, Dijon, herbs, zest) and whisk until smooth.
  3. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  4. Add shrimp to the marinade and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes (do not marinate longer).
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) or prepare other cooking method.
  7. If grilling, thread shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers.
  8. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque with slight char marks.
  9. Remove from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes.
  10. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and additional herbs if desired.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, don’t skip patting the shrimp dry before marinating.
  • Never marinate shrimp longer than 30 minutes as the acid will begin to “cook” and toughen the shrimp.
  • Perfectly cooked shrimp should form a loose “C” shape; if they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re overcooked.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp marinade, shrimp glaze, seafood marinade, garlic shrimp, lemon shrimp, grilled shrimp