Name: Indulge in Creamy Lobster Thermidor for a Luxe Dinner!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 500 grams Fresh Prawns (Opt for the largest, juiciest prawns.); 3 cloves Garlic (Crushed and minced for flavor release.); 1 teaspoon Chili (Adjust based on heat preference.); 50 ml Olive Oil (Use high-quality extra virgin.); 1 whole Lemon (Zest and Juice) (Fresh for the best flavor.)

The tantalizing scent of BBQ grilled prawns wafts through the air like a siren’s call, promising an evening filled with flavor and laughter. As I fire up the grill, I can almost hear the sizzling sound of juicy prawns cooking, generously infused with garlic, lemon, and a hint of chili. This recipe for BBQ Grilled Prawns brings together simplicity and sophistication, making it the perfect easy summer recipe for gatherings or quiet nights at home. With just five ingredients and a quick 30 minutes of prep, these gluten-free beauties are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthful addition to your summer menu. Ready to elevate your BBQ game? Let’s dive into this delightful dish that will have everyone coming back for more!

Why Are BBQ Grilled Prawns Irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just five ingredients and a solid 30 minutes, you can whip up a gourmet dish without the fuss.

Flavor Explosion: The flavor combination of garlic, lemon, and chili creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both zesty and savory.

All-Weather Appeal: Perfect for summer BBQs or cozy indoor dinners, these prawns are a hit year-round.

Health Conscious: Being gluten-free and low in calories means you can indulge guilt-free!

Quick Preparation: With easy prep and grill instructions, even novice cooks can impress with minimal effort.

Explore how these BBQ grilled prawns can take your weeknight meals or weekend entertaining to the next level while keeping things fresh and delicious!

BBQ Grilled Prawns Ingredients

• Prepare to create a delightful dish with these essential components!

For the Prawns

Fresh Prawns – The star of the dish; opt for the largest, juiciest prawns you can find for that tender bite.

For the Marinade

Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; crush and mince for maximum flavor release.
Chili – Adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Olive Oil – A crucial flavor enhancer; use a fruity, high-quality extra virgin for the best results.
Lemon (Zest and Juice) – Brightens the entire dish; make sure it’s fresh for that zesty punch.

These ingredients will help you prepare irresistible BBQ grilled prawns that are not only gluten-free but also incredibly easy to make, perfect for your next summer gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Step 1: Prep the Prawns
Start by cleaning and deveining the fresh prawns, which should be large for the best grilling experience. Remove the shells if you prefer, but leaving them on adds more flavor. Once prepped, place the prawns in a bowl and set aside while you make the marinade.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine high-quality olive oil, minced garlic, and chili (if you like a bit of heat). Then add fresh lemon zest and juice, mixing everything well until it forms a cohesive marinade. The fragrant blend of flavors is essential for your BBQ grilled prawns, ensuring they’re deeply infused.

Step 3: Marinate
Add the prepared prawns to the marinade, ensuring each one is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the prawns marinate for approximately 15 minutes. This allows the flavors of the garlic, lemon, and chili to permeate the seafood for a delightful burst of taste.

Step 4: Prepare the Grill
While your prawns are marinating, get your BBQ grill ready by heating it to a high temperature, around 280°C (or 550°F). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to help prevent the prawns from sticking. A hot grill is crucial for achieving the ideal smoky flavor and beautiful char.

Step 5: Grill the Prawns
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated prawns either on skewers or directly on the grill grates. Cook the prawns for about 2-4 minutes per side, turning them until they turn a lovely pinky-orange color and the meat appears pearly white. Watch closely to avoid overcooking, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.

Step 6: Serve
As soon as your BBQ grilled prawns are perfectly cooked, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and crusty bread for dipping. The combination of the smoky prawns and zesty lemon is sure to impress your guests and elevate your summer gatherings!

Storage Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Room Temperature: Enjoy your BBQ grilled prawns fresh off the grill for the best taste. If left out, they should be eaten within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftover grilled prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep them well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze grilled prawns for up to 3 months. Make sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the prawns in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, just until heated through. Avoid overcooking to preserve their tenderness and flavor.

What to Serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

An unforgettable summer gathering begins with delectable sides that complement the bold flavors of grilled prawns.

Crispy Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing contrast to the juicy prawns, coleslaw provides a delightful mix of textures and tanginess that balances the dish perfectly.
Garlic Butter Bread: This warm, crispy bread soaked in garlic butter is ideal for mopping up any leftover marinade, complementing the garlic notes in your prawns.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Featuring sweet mango, zesty pineapple, and juicy strawberries, a tropical fruit salad adds a refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory prawns.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Oven-roasted veggies such as bell peppers, zucchinis, and asparagus bring earthy flavors and vibrant colors to your table, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Quinoa Salad: A light, protein-packed quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon offers a healthful, gluten-free side that ties in perfectly with the dish’s citrusy theme.
Sparkling Lemonade: To sip alongside your sizzling prawns, a refreshing sparkling lemonade adds a zingy, citrus touch, cleansing your palate between bites and enhancing the meal’s summer vibe.
Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your incredible dining experience with a light, airy chocolate mousse, offering a rich, indulgent conclusion to your meal that feels like a celebration.

Expert Tips for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Choose Fresh Prawns: Use the freshest prawns available to ensure tenderness; avoid those that smell unpleasant or look dull.
Marinate Adequately: Let the prawns soak in the marinade for a minimum of 15 minutes; this allows the flavors to infuse properly for delicious grilled prawns.
Maintain High Heat: Always preheat your grill to around 280°C; this helps in achieving a perfect char without drying out your prawns.
Avoid Overcooking: Watch the prawns closely while grilling; they should cook just until pink and opaque to prevent a rubbery texture.
Experiment with Spice: Adjust the chili to your liking, or add herbs like cilantro for a fresher take on these BBQ grilled prawns.

Variations & Substitutions for BBQ Grilled Prawns

Feel free to get creative with your BBQ Grilled Prawns and make this dish uniquely yours!

Spice Level: Adjust the chili to suit your palate, using jalapeños for a milder taste or switching to smoked paprika for a smoky flair.
You can even add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick!
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs, like basil or dill, to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
These herbs can elevate the dish to a whole new level, offering bursts of freshness in every bite.
Citrus Variety: Replace lemon with lime or orange juice and zest for a fun citrus twist that transforms the flavor profile completely.
This small swap may surprise you with its refreshing sweetness!
Sauce Alternatives: Experiment with different sauces such as a tangy garlic aioli or spicy mango salsa for a delicious dip on the side.
The contrasting flavors can make your grilled prawns even more delightful!
Veggie Additions: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini onto the skewers for a colorful and nutritious boost.
They grill up beautifully alongside the prawns, creating a complete meal that’s both vibrant and healthy.
Smoky Flavor: For an intensified smokiness, consider using a smoked salt in your marinade.
This will add an extra depth that complements the grilled prawns beautifully.
Gluten-Free Substitutes: If you’re aiming for a different base, swap out the typical marinade with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for an Asian-inspired twist.
These alternatives will leave your prawns with a lovely umami flavor!
Serving Suggestions: Serve your BBQ grilled prawns alongside your favorite dishes such as a refreshing quinoa salad or a tangy coleslaw.
Great pairings can turn this dish into a full-blown feast that your family and friends won’t forget!

Feel free to explore these variations so you can discover which flavor profile resonates with you the most!

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Grilled Prawns are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the prawns up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply prepare the marinade with olive oil, garlic, chili, lemon zest, and juice, then toss in the cleaned prawns and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your grill and cook the marinated prawns for about 2-4 minutes per side until they’re perfectly pink and juicy. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort and just as much flavor!

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli Recipe FAQs

What type of prawns should I use for grilling?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh, large prawns—ideally ones labeled as “jumbo” or “extra-large.” Look for prawns that have a vibrant color and a mild, fresh ocean scent. Avoid prawns with dark spots or a strong fishy smell, as these can indicate freshness issues.

How should I store leftover grilled prawns?
Very! To store leftover grilled prawns, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. It’s best to seal them well to avoid any moisture loss. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat gently over low heat in a skillet to keep them tender.

Can I freeze BBQ grilled prawns, and how?
Of course! Grilled prawns can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this properly, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing any excess air. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently to restore their deliciousness.

What should I do if my grilled prawns turn out rubbery?
Oh no! Rubberiness often comes from overcooking. For the best texture, keep a close eye on the cooking time. Grill the prawns for only 2-4 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. If you experience rubbery texture, remember to check the grill heat and cooking duration next time.

Are these BBQ grilled prawns safe for my allergies?
Absolutely! These prawns are gluten-free and can be customized for various dietary needs. However, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, double-check each ingredient, especially the olive oil and chili. Always use pure, gluten-free products to ensure safety.

How can I adjust the spice level in the marinade?
The more the merrier! You can easily adjust the heat by varying the amount of chili you use. For a milder flavor, simply omit the chili altogether or substitute it with a pinch of paprika or a mild pepper. On the other hand, you can kick it up a notch by adding more chili flakes or even a splash of hot sauce.