Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's ready in a flash? Then look no further! This Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp recipe is your answer. It's bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy-to-follow, delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for two servings. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs!
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly with the marinade. Make sure all the shrimp are well coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld. A longer marinade time will result in more flavorful shrimp!
Grill the Shrimp:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers (if desired) or simply place them directly on the grill.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become tough.
Finishing Touches:
- While the shrimp is grilling, toss the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives in a small bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Once the shrimp is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving platter.
- Add the grilled tomatoes and olives to the platter.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping in the delicious juices!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the marinade.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the grilled shrimp over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or rice for a more substantial dish.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the shrimp with halloumi cheese or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian variation.
- Indoor grilling: If you don't have a grill, you can cook the shrimp in a grill pan on the stovetop.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious option for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy fats and lean protein into your diet while enjoying the bright and refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your homemade cooking to the next level!