BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Sharing is caring!

Grilled prawns, with their smoky aroma, tender texture, and irresistible flavors, have long been a favorite among seafood lovers. But when combined with the zesty brightness of lemon, the kick of fresh chili, and the richness of garlic, they transform into something truly extraordinary. This recipe for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is everything you want in a summer dish: easy, quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for your next outdoor gathering, it’s the kind of dish that will impress guests without keeping you tied up in the kitchen. And with just five main ingredients, you’ll be able to enjoy the process as much as the meal itself.

Print

This recipe highlights the freshness of the prawns while allowing the garlic, lemon, and chili to shine, making every bite a burst of vibrant flavors. The combination of sizzling prawns over a hot grill paired with a savory marinade creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this mouthwatering BBQ sensation at home!

Ingredients

From Your Pantry

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Prawns

• 8 large prawns (with shells on, vein removed)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1–2 fresh chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp (2g) fresh parsley
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)

Optional for Serving

• Fresh lemon wedges
• Fresh crusty bread (for dipping into the sauce)

For the Barbecue

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Barbecue

• Begin by setting up your BBQ. Place a few firelighters at the bottom of the grill and light them up. Once alight, add charcoal, piling it in the middle to create a concentrated heat source.
• Let the fire burn until the coals are white-hot with no black patches. This ensures the prawns cook evenly and are slightly charred on the outside while staying juicy inside.

2. Make the Marinade

• While your BBQ is heating up, it’s time to prepare the garlic, lemon, and chili marinade. In a small pan, add olive oil over medium heat.
• Grate the garlic cloves into the pan and finely slice the chilies. Add both to the olive oil and sauté for about two minutes, just until the garlic softens but doesn’t brown. The garlic should have a fragrant aroma, but be cautious not to overcook it, as it can turn bitter.
• Stir in the lemon zest and juice, then let the mixture cook gently for another minute or so. This will bring out the citrusy brightness while mellowing the raw garlic flavor.

3. Marinate the Prawns

• Place the cleaned prawns in a shallow dish or bowl. Pour half of the garlic, lemon, and chili sauce over the prawns. Massage the marinade gently under the shell to ensure the prawns are coated thoroughly, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat.

4. Grill the Prawns

• By now, your BBQ should be ready. Place a clean grill over the hot coals, ensuring it’s positioned directly above the flame. The prawns should sizzle when placed on the grill, signaling that the heat is perfect.
• Lay the prawns on the grill, making sure not to overcrowd them. You want each prawn to get a little charred on all sides. Cook them for 45 seconds to 1 minute on one side, then flip them over and cook for another minute. You’ll know they’re ready when the shells turn a vibrant pinkish-orange, and the meat inside is opaque, resembling a pearly white color.
• If the flames flare up as the oil from the prawns drips onto the coals, simply sprinkle a little water from a glass onto the fire to calm it down. This ensures the prawns don’t burn, but still get that lovely charred flavor.

5. Finish and Serve

• Once the prawns are cooked through, remove them from the grill and place them on a clean tray. Pour the remaining garlic, lemon, and chili sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Serve the prawns immediately, with optional lemon wedges on the side. Fresh crusty bread also makes a great addition for dipping into the flavorful sauce.

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns

• Prawn Size: The size of the prawns matters when grilling. Larger prawns will require a little more time on the grill, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Smaller prawns may cook faster, so be sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly.
• Marinating Time: Marinating the prawns for about 15-30 minutes is ideal, but don’t marinate them for too long, as the acid from the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the prawns, changing their texture.
• Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh chilies, you can use chili flakes or chili paste for a similar heat. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili or leave it out entirely.
• Grill Tips: If you don’t have a BBQ, you can use a grill pan or even a stovetop skillet to achieve similar results. Make sure the grill or pan is preheated to a high temperature before adding the prawns.
• Serving Suggestions: These prawns are perfect with a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables. For a fuller meal, pair them with rice or couscous. If you’re serving them as an appetizer, a tangy dipping sauce such as aioli or a light salsa verde would complement the flavors nicely.

The Flavors and Textures of BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

There’s something magical about prawns when grilled – their natural sweetness is amplified by the smoky char, creating an irresistible combination of textures. With each bite, you’ll experience the satisfying snap of the prawn’s exterior, giving way to the tender, juicy meat inside. The marinade infuses the prawns with a lovely balance of flavors: the fragrant, earthy richness of garlic, the citrusy zing of lemon, and a touch of heat from the chili. The olive oil adds a smooth richness that ties all the elements together, while the fresh parsley provides a hint of herbaceous brightness.

As the prawns hit the grill, the kitchen (or backyard) fills with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and lemon mingling with the smoky undertones from the BBQ. It’s a scent that promises a meal that’s both satisfying and light, with flavors that transport you straight to summer.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the marinade. This will add depth and a smoky spice to the prawns.
• Herb Variations: While parsley adds a fresh note, feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique twist. For a Mediterranean flair, try adding fresh oregano or thyme.
• Coconut-Lime Version: Add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade for a tropical touch. The coconut will lend a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the prawns’ natural sweetness, and lime can be used in place of lemon for a slightly different flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli is the epitome of simple yet flavorful cooking. It’s a dish that doesn’t require a lot of effort but still delivers a punch of flavor with every bite. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or as a special treat for yourself, these prawns are sure to be a hit. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and adaptable, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the delicious results.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is proof that sometimes, the best meals come from the simplest combinations. So, fire up your BBQ, get your prawns ready, and let the flavors of garlic, lemon, and chili work their magic. You’ll be hooked from the very first bite.

Conclusion

This Spring Roll Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of spring rolls without the hassle of rolling and frying. With a combination of crisp veggies, tender shrimp, soft vermicelli noodles, and a creamy peanut lime dressing, this salad provides a satisfying, well-rounded meal that’s both refreshing and filling. The rich, creamy dressing adds layers of flavor, with the perfect balance of tanginess, sweetness, and a hint of heat from the sriracha. It’s a dish that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also customizable, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a light lunch, dinner, or even a side dish for gatherings.

The versatility of this salad makes it a winner for any diet or preference. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season, and the dressing alone can be used to elevate other dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint not only brings an aromatic element to the salad but also enhances its freshness, making every bite feel like a burst of summer.

With the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors, this Spring Roll Salad will soon become one of your go-to recipes. It’s easy to make, and the result is a beautiful and delicious dish that will impress both family and friends. Whether you’re craving a light meal or a refreshing side, this salad has everything you need. So, gather your ingredients, prepare this vibrant dish, and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness that comes with every bite!