Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and powers up your dinner with a touch of sophistication, then you absolutely must try this Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe. Picture succulent king prawns kissed by smoky char marks, infused with zesty lemon and garlic, and finished off with just the right hint of spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to prepare, making it your new go-to seafood dish for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe calls for a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully to create an irresistible flavor profile. Each item is straightforward yet essential, ensuring the prawns are juicy, tangy, and perfectly spiced.
- 1½ pounds king prawns (shell-on or peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, fresh prawns deliver amazing texture and taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the marinade coat each prawn evenly.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings a bright, tangy freshness that elevates the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies that citrus punch with aromatic oils from the lemon peel.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the prawns with warm, savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a smoky complexity that pairs perfectly with grilling.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a hint of heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving: Bring freshness and brightness as a simple garnish.
How to Make Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes if using, along with salt and pepper in a large bowl. This mixture is your flavor-packed marinade that will soak into the prawns, giving them a lively, well-rounded taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Prawns
Add the king prawns to the bowl and toss them gently until each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This resting time allows the prawns to soak up the marinade, enhancing their natural sweetness and ensuring every bite is juicy and succulent.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
While the prawns marinate, get your grill or grill pan nice and hot over medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will create those irresistible char marks and lock in the prawns’ natural juices.
Step 4: Grill the Prawns
If you like, thread the prawns onto skewers to make flipping easier. Grill them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, watching carefully for the prawns to turn pink and develop light char marks. Be careful not to overcook; it’s easy to dry out these delicate morsels.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, transfer your prawns to a serving platter and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty splash right at the table. Serve immediately to enjoy the prawns at their best.
How to Serve Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop of green and an herbal brightness that balances the smoky, lemony prawns. Lemon wedges are an absolute must – a quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the warm prawns just before eating brings everything to life.
Side Dishes
Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Think fluffy couscous, a crisp mixed green salad, or even a garlic butter pasta. These options complement the seafood without overpowering the delicate, bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a swoon-worthy presentation, serve the prawns still on skewers over a bed of aromatic rice or grilled vegetables. Alternatively, arrange them artfully on a platter with colorful roasted peppers and a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil. These touches make the dish feel extra special, perfect for entertaining or a cozy date night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), place the cooled prawns in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days, making for a quick and flavorful lunch or dinner addition.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze the prawns before cooking if you want to keep them longer. Marinated prawns freeze well for about 1 month when sealed tightly. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Reheating
To reheat cooked prawns, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave, being careful not to overcook. Adding a small splash of olive oil or lemon juice helps keep them moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen king prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to get the best texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to use skewers?
Skewers make grilling easier and prevent the prawns from falling through grill grates, but you can also grill them directly if you have a grill pan or a grill with a fine mesh.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
No worries! You can achieve delicious results by broiling the prawns in your oven or cooking them in a hot skillet on the stovetop.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Of course! Simply reduce or omit the chili flakes if you prefer milder flavors, or add more if you like your prawns with a spicy kick.
Are these prawns gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the combination of smoky char, zesty lemon, and tender king prawns that makes this Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe a standout. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this dish promises to impress without any fuss. So fire up that grill and dive into seafood bliss—you won’t regret it!
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Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
This Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon recipe features succulent king prawns marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, lightly seasoned with smoked paprika and chili flakes, then grilled to perfection. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, these prawns offer a smoky and tangy flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, ideal for a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Marinade and Prawns
- 1½ pounds king prawns (shell-on or peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
- Marinate the Prawns: Add the king prawns to the marinade and toss thoroughly to ensure each prawn is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to get it hot enough for char-grilling the prawns.
- Prepare Prawns for Grilling: If desired, thread the marinated prawns onto skewers to make grilling easier and ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Prawns: Place the prawns on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a light char. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled prawns to a plate, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges, then serve immediately to enjoy their vibrant flavors at their best.
Notes
- These prawns are delicious served over rice, mixed salad, or alongside pasta for a complete meal.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 20–30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
