BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

These BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are a fantastic dish for any outdoor gathering. They’re quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them ideal for summer parties or casual dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress your guests with these succulent prawns that burst with zesty freshness. This recipe is all about easy, delicious cooking that brings everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute entertaining.
• Five Simple Ingredients: Enjoy minimal prep with maximum flavor using just five key ingredients.
• Healthy Option: These prawns are grilled rather than fried, making them a lighter choice for meals.
• Versatile Serving: Pair them with fresh crusty bread or serve alongside your favorite salad for a complete meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chili creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing ahead of time ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• BBQ grill
• Firelighters
• Charcoal
• Pan for sauce
• Sharp knife
• Clean grill tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• BBQ grill: Provides the high heat needed to achieve that desired char on the prawns.
• Firelighters: Make starting the charcoal quick and easy, ensuring consistent grilling temperatures.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting when preparing garlic and chillies, releasing their full flavor.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 cloves of garlic

For the Prawns

• 8 large Prawns (prepared with shells still on but vein removed)
• 1-2 chillies

For Serving

• 1 Tbsp / 2g fresh parsley
• 1 lemon – juice and zest
• Fresh lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh crusty bread of your choice for dipping in the sauce

For Barbecuing

• Firelighters
• Charcoal
• Matches or lighter
• Glass of water

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

Step 1: Prepare Your BBQ

Get your fire started by placing a few firelighters into the bottom grill of the BBQ. Once alight, top with charcoal, piling it in the middle to create a concentrated heat source.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While your BBQ is heating up, make the sauce for the prawns:
1. Add olive oil to a pan.
2. Grate in the cloves of garlic.
3. Finely slice the chillies using a sharp knife and add them to the pan.
4. Fry over medium heat for 2 minutes.
5. Add zest and juice of the lemon and cook gently until garlic is no longer raw—be careful not to overcook.

Step 3: Marinate Prawns

Pour half of the olive oil and garlic mixture over the cleaned prawns. Massage the marinade under the shell so they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Check Your Coals

Ensure your coals are white hot with no black areas left. Place a clean grill over them—your BBQ is ready to cook!

Step 5: Grill Prawns

Place prawns on the grill:
– The coals should sizzle when you add them.
– Cook until slightly charred on each side but not burnt (about 45 seconds to 1 minute).
– If flames flare up from dripping oil, sprinkle a little water from a glass to calm it down.

Step 6: Flip and Finish Cooking

Once one side is pink and charred, flip them over:
– Cook until shells turn pinky-orange and meat is pearl white.
– Remove from heat and place on a clean tray; pour over remaining garlic, lemon, and chilli sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges and fresh crusty bread for dipping in that delicious sauce! Enjoy your BBQ Grilled Prawns!

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

These BBQ grilled prawns are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your dining experience and impress your guests.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh salad greens like arugula or spinach provide a crisp base that complements the grilled prawns beautifully. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

With Lemon Wedges

• Serve the prawns with fresh lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing lemon juice over the prawns enhances the citrus flavor and adds brightness to the dish.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of fresh crusty bread for dipping into the leftover garlic sauce. This adds a delightful texture and is perfect for soaking up all the flavors.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create flavorful tacos filled with grilled prawns, avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This makes for a fun and interactive meal.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a seafood platter by adding other grilled items like vegetables or shrimp. This visually appealing presentation is perfect for gatherings.

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

To make your BBQ grilled prawns truly remarkable, consider these essential tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the prawns sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes allows them to absorb more flavor.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the prawns on it. This helps achieve that perfect char without overcooking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemons will give you a more vibrant taste compared to their dried or bottled counterparts.

• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; prawns cook quickly. They should be pink and opaque but not rubbery.

• Control Flare-Ups: Keep water nearby to douse any flare-ups from dripping oil while grilling, preventing burnt prawns.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Complement your BBQ grilled prawns with these delectable side dishes that enhance their flavors and offer variety.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus offer a smoky flavor that pairs well with the prawns. Just toss them in olive oil and grill alongside.

2. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs adds freshness and texture to your meal.

3. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf cooked with vegetable broth brings heartiness to the table while remaining light.

4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch that balances the tender prawns perfectly.

5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with diced onion, parsley, and lemon dressing offers additional nutrition and flavor contrast.

6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter makes for a sweet addition that complements seafood beautifully.

7. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from the prawns while adding extra flavor.

8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and acidity that cuts through the richness of grilled seafood effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli can be a breeze, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your prawns turn out perfectly.

• Timing Issues: Many people overcook prawns, leading to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them while grilling; they only need about 1-2 minutes per side.
• Ignoring Marinade Time: Skipping the marinating step or not allowing enough time will result in less flavorful prawns. Aim for at least 15 minutes of marinating for the best flavor infusion.
• Inconsistent Heat: Cooking on uneven coals can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your BBQ coals are white hot and spread evenly before adding the prawns.
• Not Using Enough Sauce: A common mistake is using too little marinade or sauce. Ensure each prawn is well-coated for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many prawns on the grill at once can lower the temperature and cause steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Place cooled prawns in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Sauté over low heat with a splash of olive oil until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli.

How do I ensure my prawns are fresh?

Fresh prawns should smell like the ocean and have a firm texture. Look for shells that are shiny and intact without any black spots.

Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns! Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling.

What’s the best way to serve BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

These prawns pair beautifully with fresh lemon wedges and crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the number of chillies based on your spice preference. You can also try different herbs or spices for variety.

How long does it take to cook BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

Total cooking time is about 5 minutes after preheating your BBQ. The key is to watch them closely as they cook quickly!

Final Thoughts

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli are not just quick and easy to prepare; they’re also bursting with flavor and perfect for summer gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Give it a try, and you’ll see why these grilled prawns are a crowd-pleaser!