Are you craving a flavorful and easy weeknight meal that's also impressive enough for a barbecue? Look no further! This recipe for bacon-wrapped shrimp on the grill is your answer. It's a delicious dish that takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to experience a delightful explosion of salty, smoky, and sweet flavors in every bite! This recipe is perfect for those looking for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, offering a homemade cooking experience that's surprisingly simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely on the grill. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated.
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Wrap the Shrimp: Wrap each shrimp with half a slice of bacon. Secure with a wooden skewer if desired, but it’s not strictly necessary.
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Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the Shrimp: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
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Serve Immediately: Remove the shrimp from the grill and serve immediately. These are delicious on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a spicy cocktail sauce or aioli.
Tips for the Best Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Shrimp:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the shrimp enough space to cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use high-quality bacon: The flavor of the bacon will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Thicker-cut bacon will result in a crispier finish.
- Watch the shrimp carefully: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding brown sugar for a sweet and smoky taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for extra heat.
- Honey Garlic Shrimp: Drizzle the cooked shrimp with a honey garlic sauce after grilling.
- Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the seasoning mixture. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a bright citrusy note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on bacon type and quantity)
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
This easy recipe for bacon-wrapped shrimp on the grill is a fantastic option for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual weeknight dinners or more elaborate gatherings. Enjoy!