Grilled Shrimp With Herby Garlic Bread
A vibrant, herb-packed grilled shrimp dish with garlic bread for a summer feast.
Grilled shrimp with herby garlic bread is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of summer flavors. With a marinade packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. The marinade not only infuses the shrimp with flavor but also doubles as a spread for the garlic bread, making every bite a celebration of taste and texture.
Why This Recipe Works
Grilling shrimp is a quick and easy way to add a smoky, charred flavor to this delicate protein. The herb-packed marinade enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp while the garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and richness. This recipe is perfect for entertaining, family dinners, or even a casual weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 small ciabatta loaf, halved crosswise
- Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, herbs, and olive oil. Set aside 1 tablespoon of the mixture. Toss to combine, coating the shrimp on all sides. Double thread shrimp onto a pair of skewers to anchor them in place and lay them on a sheet pan. (You may need 2 or 3 sets of skewers, depending on how long they are.)
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
If you have a gas grill, heat it to high. If you have a charcoal grill, remove the grill grate and loosely bunch newspaper at the base of the chimney. Fill to the top with charcoal. Light the paper in a few places, which will ignite the charcoal. Burn until the flames subside: After about 10 minutes, the coals should begin to glow, turning gray and becoming ashen at their edges. Transfer the hot charcoal into a pile at the center of the grill for direct grilling.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Arrange the skewers over the hottest zone and drizzle a little olive oil over the skewers. Grill undisturbed for 3 minutes, or until the edges start to appear opaque and the shrimp are charred in parts. Swap skewers as you turn them over for even grilling. Grill for 1 minute longer before transferring the skewers to a clean sheet pan or serving dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Bread
Spread the reserved marinade from the bowl across the surface of the bread. Drizzle olive oil across the ciabatta—especially along the edges—and slather the marinade and oil to coat. Allow the oil to soak in for a minute or so.
Step 5: Grill the Bread
Place ciabatta face down over the flames. Grill the bread for 20 to 30 seconds, keeping an eye on it so that it chars in parts but doesn’t scorch. Rotate it and repeat until grilled to your liking.
Step 6: Serve
Remove shrimp from the skewers onto a serving platter and serve alongside the grilled bread. Drizzle a little more oil, sprinkle flaky salt, and eat at once.
Why Marinating Shrimp Matters
Marinating shrimp in herbs and garlic is a surefire way to highlight their plump meat and slightly sweet flavor. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the shrimp moist during grilling. A little char adds crispiness, bringing the dish to a whole new level.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp
- Use jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Double thread shrimp onto skewers to prevent them from rotating while grilling.
- Grill the shrimp over high heat for a quick sear and to achieve a nice char.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
- Reserve some marinade for the garlic bread to maximize flavor.
Why Garlic Bread is the Perfect Pairing
Garlic bread is a classic side that complements grilled shrimp beautifully. The herby marinade doubles as a spread for the bread, infusing it with flavor. Grilling the bread adds a smoky, charred element that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the shrimp and bread in a grill pan or under the broiler. Just make sure to get a good sear on the shrimp and a nice char on the bread.
What other herbs can I use in the marinade?
You can use basil, dill, or oregano in place of parsley and cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the marinade up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp and bread in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet or microwave and the bread in the oven or toaster.
Conclusion
Grilled shrimp with herby garlic bread is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The herb-packed marinade and smoky grilled bread make this recipe a standout. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Table: Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Serves | 3 to 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
