As I stepped outside on a warm summer evening, the sun began its slow descent, casting a golden glow over the backyard. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling prawns, seasoned with garlic, lemon, and a pinch of chilli. It was the kind of moment that called for laughter, good company, and a feast that didn’t require hours in the kitchen.
These BBQ Grilled Prawns are not just a meal; they are a celebration of everything we love about outdoor cooking—easy, delicious, and downright impressive. With only five simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those spontaneous get-togethers or relaxed family gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can transform fresh prawns into a smoky, tender dish that dazzles the taste buds and warms the heart.
So, fire up that grill and let’s dive into creating a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds, and perhaps third!
Why are BBQ Grilled Prawns a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just five ingredients, these BBQ Grilled Prawns come together in a flash—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, fresh lemon, and a hint of chilli brings out the natural sweetness of the prawns, creating an irresistible dish.
Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and gluten-free, you can enjoy these prawns without guilt, making them ideal for health-conscious eaters.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe allows you to spend more time with loved ones and less time slaving away in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a casual family dinner, these prawns will impress your guests and have everyone asking for your secrets!
BBQ Grilled Prawns Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Prawns – Ensure they’re fresh to achieve that juicy, succulent bite synonymous with BBQ grilled prawns.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Use high-quality oil to add richness and enhance the grilling experience.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic creates aromatic depth and elevates the flavor profile.
- Chilli – Adds a kick of heat; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder taste.
- Lemon (zest and juice) – This brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor with its fresh acidity.
How to Make BBQ Grilled Prawns
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Prepare the grill: Begin by preheating your grill to a high heat, reaching around 280°C. This ensures perfect caramelization and a beautiful char on your prawns.
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Mix the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the fresh prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, chilli, and both lemon juice and zest. Toss well to ensure each prawn is fully coated in the flavorful mixture.
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Marinate briefly: Let the prawns sit for about 10 minutes as the grill warms up. This enhances their flavor and allows the ingredients to mingle beautifully.
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Skewer and grill: If desired, thread the prawns onto skewers for easy grilling. Place them on the grill and cook for 2-4 minutes on each side, until the shells turn pink and the prawn meat becomes pearly white.
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Serve right away: As soon as they’re perfectly cooked, serve your BBQ Grilled Prawns immediately with wedges of lemon and some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-lemon sauce.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for an extra splash of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these BBQ Grilled Prawns ahead of time makes meal planning a breeze for busy cooks! You can marinate the prawns up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, chilli, lemon juice, and zest, and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the prawns’ freshness and prevent them from becoming mushy, avoid marinating them for too long, as the acidity from the lemon can alter their texture. When you’re ready to grill, just skewer the prawns and cook on high heat for 2-4 minutes per side until perfectly charred. This way, you can enjoy delicious BBQ Grilled Prawns while saving precious time and delighting your guests!
BBQ Grilled Prawns Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to elevate your BBQ grilled prawns into something uniquely yours!
- Spicy Kick: Add more chopped fresh chilli for a bolder heat. This will satisfy those craving a real spice kick.
- Citrus Medley: Swap lemon with lime or orange for a different citrusy zing, enhancing the marinade’s freshness. A refreshing change that’s equally delightful!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or dill with the marinade to add a fragrant twist. Herbs bring a delightful depth to your dish!
- Smokey Flavor: Introduce smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a deep, rustic flavor that complements the grilled prawns beautifully. These spices create an appealing smokiness that everyone will love!
- Creamy Avocado: Serve the prawns over a bed of creamy avocado spread for a rich texture that balances the dish. This twist adds both flavor and heartiness!
- Garlicky Butter: Drizzle melted garlic butter over the grilled prawns right before serving for an extra indulgent finish. The added richness will take these prawns to the next level!
- Tropical Style: Top with diced mango or pineapple salsa for a sweet and spicy combo that transports you straight to the tropics. The freshness of the fruits melds perfectly with the prawns!
- Vegan Option: Substitute prawns with grilled tofu or seitan marinated the same way for a delicious plant-based alternative that everyone will enjoy. This variation opens up the flavors for everyone at the table!
What to Serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?
Creating the perfect meal accompaniment enhances your BBQ experience and makes every bite memorable.
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Crusty Bread: The ideal side for soaking up that mouthwatering garlic-lemon sauce, elevating every dip and savor.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch balances the smoky flavors while adding a vibrant splash of color to your plate.
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini contribute a medley of flavors and textures that complement the prawns beautifully.
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Lemon Dill Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs makes for a delightful backdrop that marries beautifully with the prawns’ zestiness. As you take a forkful, the rice’s lightness pairs perfectly with the succulent prawns.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing add a refreshing bite, cooling your palate between savory morsels.
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Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio beautifully elevates the meal’s cheerful atmosphere while enhancing the dish’s fresh flavors.
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Tropical Fruit Platter: Sweet pineapple, juicy mango, and fresh berries bring a fun twist and a hint of sweetness to balance the dish’s savory notes.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a high note with a decadent dessert that contrasts the prawns, offering a rich, smooth finale that lingers delightfully.
Expert Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns
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Choose Fresh Prawns: Always look for the freshest prawns available to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness in your BBQ grilled prawns.
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Marinate Just Right: Don’t marinate for too long; 10-15 minutes is perfect. Over-marinating can lead to mushy prawns.
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Watch the Heat: Keep your grill at high heat to achieve that nice char. Low heat can result in overcooked, rubbery prawns.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Stay by the grill while cooking; prawns only need 2-4 minutes per side. They cook quickly, so don’t walk away!
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Utilize Skewers: If grilling skewers, ensure the prawns are spaced out to cook evenly. This also makes flipping easier during the grilling process.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Grilled Prawns
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh off the grill; if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or, if frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy them while they’re still bursting with flavor!
BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the freshest prawns?
Absolutely! Look for prawns with a firm texture, and a shiny appearance. Fresh prawns should smell like the sea, not fishy. If you notice dark spots all over or a strong odor, it’s best to avoid those.
What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns?
Store your leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Can I freeze leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns?
Yes, you can! First, lay the prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my prawns turn out rubbery?
To avoid overcooking, monitor them closely; prawns typically only need 2-4 minutes per side on high heat. If they become rubbery, it might be due to prolonged grilling. Make sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and pearly white.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! This BBQ Grilled Prawns recipe is naturally gluten-free and healthy, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Always double-check the ingredients in any accompanying sauces or bread you plan to serve.
How can I enhance the flavor of my BBQ Grilled Prawns?
For additional flavor, consider adding freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil during the grilling process. You can also incorporate a splash of lemon zest for extra brightness. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to make it your own!
Savory BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic & Lemon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the grill by preheating it to a high heat of around 280°C.
- In a large bowl, mix prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, chilli, and lemon juice and zest.
- Let the prawns marinate for 10 minutes.
- Skewer the prawns if desired, then grill for 2-4 minutes on each side.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread.