Name: BBQ Grilled Prawns: Zesty Garlic & Chilli Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 500 grams Fresh Prawns (Opt for large ones for best flavor.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced and toasted in olive oil.); 1 teaspoon Chilli (Optional for a spicier kick.); 1 each Lemon (Zest and juice required.); 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (High-quality oil for marinating.)

As I stood by the grill, the aroma of garlic and sunshine filled the air, instantly whisking me back to those carefree summer afternoons with friends. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli. This dish is a delightful blend of flavors that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for quick and healthy summer cooking. With only five ingredients, it’s impressively simple yet stands out at any gathering, transforming a regular meal into something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or enjoying a quiet evening, these prawns are sure to become a favorite. Ready to elevate your BBQ game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why Are BBQ Grilled Prawns So Irresistible?

Bold flavors come alive in every bite with a perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and chilli, making these prawns an instant crowd-pleaser. Health-conscious and delicious, this dish is gluten-free and packed with protein. Quick and easy to whip up, you can impress friends and family in just 30 minutes! Versatile serving options allow you to pair these prawns with your favorite sides, like crusty bread or fresh salad. Whether for a weekend barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, these BBQ Grilled Prawns will elevate your dining experience and bring summer vibes to your table.

BBQ Grilled Prawns Ingredients

For the Marinade

Prawns – Fresh prawns are essential for the best flavor and texture; opt for large ones if possible.
Garlic – Creates an aromatic savoriness; be sure to toast it in olive oil to avoid bitterness.
Chilli – Optional for those who like a kick; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity that perfectly complements the prawns.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – High-quality oil enhances the taste and helps in marinading the prawns beautifully.

Enjoy the delightful process of cooking these BBQ Grilled Prawns as they infuse with vibrant flavors, turning your meal into a culinary celebration!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Step 1: Prep the Prawns
Start by cleaning and deveining your fresh prawns to ensure the best flavor and texture in your BBQ Grilled Prawns. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the marinade stick and improves grilling results. This initial step is essential for a delicious outcome that everyone will love.

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, optional chilli, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well until the ingredients are combined, creating a fragrant marinade that will infuse the prawns with a zesty kick. This step will elevate the BBQ Grilled Prawns, ensuring they are bursting with flavor when cooked.

Step 3: Marinate the Prawns
Toss the cleaned prawns into the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow them to marinate for about 15 minutes, which lets the flavors develop while you prepare your grill. This marination period is crucial for achieving that mouthwatering taste that makes BBQ Grilled Prawns so irresistible.

Step 4: Preheat BBQ
While the prawns marinate, preheat your BBQ until the coals are glowing, aiming for a high temperature of around 280°C. This level of heat is perfect for grilling, allowing for that desirable smoky char on your prawns. Make sure your grill grates are clean and ready for cooking, ensuring even grilling results.

Step 5: Grill the Prawns
Carefully place the marinated prawns directly onto the preheated grill. Cook them for about 2 to 4 minutes per side, watching closely as the shells turn a pinky orange and the meat becomes pearly white. This quick cooking time ensures tender BBQ Grilled Prawns, bursting with flavor and featuring a delightful char.

Step 6: Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the prawns from the grill and serve them immediately while hot. Pair your delicious BBQ Grilled Prawns with lemon wedges for a refreshing zing and enjoy them with crusty bread for dipping into the leftover marinade. This beautiful dish promises to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Expert Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Freshness Matters: Always choose the freshest prawns for the best flavor. Frozen prawns can lose texture, making them less enjoyable.
Marination Magic: Don’t skip the marinade! Allow the prawns to sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up that zesty garlic and lemon goodness.
Perfect Heat: Aim for high heat on the grill. It caramelizes the prawns beautifully, enhancing their flavor. Too low heat will lead to steaming instead of grilling.
Avoid Overcooking: Watch closely while grilling. Prawns cook very quickly, and overcooked ones can turn rubbery. Aim for that perfect pinky-orange color!
Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of chilli according to your heat preference. For a milder version of BBQ Grilled Prawns, simply omit the chilli entirely.
Garnish for Flair: Consider garnishing your grilled prawns with fresh herbs like parsley or coriander to add an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color to your dish.

BBQ Grilled Prawns: Tasty Twists Await!

Get creative with these BBQ grilled prawns! Each variation adds a unique flavor profile that’ll delight your taste buds.

Mild & Zesty: Omit the chilli for a soothing taste; perfect for those who prefer lighter flavors.
Seafood Swap: Substitute prawns with scallops or salmon fillets for a different texture and taste, while still embracing that BBQ smoky essence.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic layer that enhances freshness—ideal for summer gatherings!
Citrus Twist: Add lime juice alongside lemon for a vibrant citrus kick that brightens every bite.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika in the marinade to infuse an extra layer of depth that pairs beautifully with grilled seafood.
Sweet Heat: Introduce a teaspoon of honey or agave nectar to the marinade for a delightful caramelization that balances the spicy notes of garlic and chilli.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to three cloves for even more aromatic richness—because who can resist that garlicky goodness?
Asian Flair: Pair with a light soy sauce drizzle or sesame oil in your marinade for an Asian-inspired twist that transforms the prawns into an unforgettable dish.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version! Consider serving these flavorful prawns with some homemade tartar sauce or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Grilled Prawns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the prawns up to 24 hours in advance to develop the flavors, ensuring they are packed with deliciousness when you’re ready to grill. Simply clean and devein the prawns, then toss them in the marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and chilli before refrigerating in an airtight container. To maintain quality, be sure to keep them in the fridge and consume them within this timeframe. When it’s time to serve, preheat your BBQ and grill the prawns for 2 to 4 minutes per side for that signature smoky char. With these prep steps, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality BBQ Grilled Prawns with minimal effort!

What to Serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns?

Add a splash of delightful flavors to your dining experience with these perfect pairings for our succulent BBQ grilled prawns!

Creamy Coleslaw:
This crunchy, creamy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the succulent prawns, enhancing every bite with its tangy flavor.
Garlic Bread:
Warm, crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent vessel for catching any leftover marinade, making every moment at the table special.
Zesty Quinoa Salad:
Brighten your plate with a quinoa salad embellished with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette that complements the prawns beautifully.
Grilled Vegetables:
Charred veggies add a smoky element while keeping the meal light, bringing color and nutrition to your outdoor feast.
Tropical Fruit Skewers:
Juicy pineapple and mango skewers introduce a sweet touch that perfectly balances the garlicky heat of the prawns for a tropical vibe.
Crisp Green Salad:
A simple garden salad with mixed greens and a citrus dressing refreshes the palate and enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
Chilled White Wine:
Pair with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the prawns’ zest, heightening your dining pleasure.
Lemon Sorbet:
Finish off the meal with a light lemon sorbet, providing a refreshing cleanse that mirrors the bright flavors of the main dish.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Grilled Prawns

Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor, making them easily reheatable.
Freezer: If you need to freeze them, place the cooked prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer; remember to remove as much air as possible.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the prawns in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through, adding a splash of olive oil to keep them moist.
Avoid Refreezing: For quality and safety, do not refreeze previously frozen BBQ Grilled Prawns after they have been thawed, as this can affect their texture and taste.

BBQ Grilled Prawns Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best prawns are fresh, looking firm and slightly translucent. Choose large specimens for a satisfying bite. If you see dark spots all over or they have a strong fishy smell, steer clear! Your prawns should smell fresh like the ocean for the best flavor in your BBQ Grilled Prawns.

How should I store leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns?
Leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Be sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing them up to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply warm them in a skillet for a few minutes.

Can I freeze BBQ Grilled Prawns?
Yes! To freeze your BBQ Grilled Prawns, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the prawns into a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes.

What should I do if the prawns are overcooked?
If you accidentally overcook your prawns and they turn rubbery, try tossing them in a dressing or sauce that includes olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. This can help to add moisture back into the prawns. For next time, keep a close eye while they grill to achieve that perfect tender texture that’s essential for a great BBQ Grilled Prawns experience.

Are BBQ Grilled Prawns safe for my pets?
While the prawns themselves are safe for dogs in moderation, it’s crucial to avoid any seasonings or ingredients like garlic and chilli, which can be harmful to pets. Always check with your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet, ensuring their safety and well-being!

Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Very! You can easily customize the spice level of your BBQ Grilled Prawns by simply omitting the chilli or using less if you prefer a milder taste. You could also experiment with different types of spices or herbs to find the perfect flavor profile that suits your palate, making every batch uniquely delightful.