Grilled Shrimp Scampi: A Bright, Garlicky Outdoor Favorite

Introduction

Grilled shrimp scampi brings together everything people love about the classic dish—juicy shrimp, lemon, garlic, and butter—while adding a smoky twist from the grill. This version captures that restaurant-quality flavor with simple, fresh ingredients and a short cooking time. It’s an ideal go-to for quick dinners, summer cookouts, or whenever you want seafood that tastes vibrant and effortless. Whether you're using a flat-top grill or an open flame, this grilled shrimp scampi delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture with minimal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve a hot, even cooking surface.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear properly.
3. Place shrimp in a bowl and set aside.

Step 2:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Pour the mixture over the shrimp, tossing gently to coat.
3. Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 3:

1. Arrange the shrimp directly on the grill in a single layer.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and lightly charred.
3. Transfer the shrimp to a platter and drizzle with any remaining marinade.

Step 4:

1. Top with chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
3. Enjoy while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Tips

This grilled shrimp scampi comes together quickly, so preparation is key. Always dry the shrimp well to ensure a beautiful sear. Fresh garlic and lemon make a noticeable difference, so avoid substitutes when possible. If using wooden skewers, soak them for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook fast and can turn rubbery if overdone. For deeper flavor, reserve a small amount of the marinade (before it touches the raw shrimp) to drizzle over the cooked dish.

Variations

This dish adapts beautifully to different flavor profiles and cooking styles. Try adding a touch of smoked paprika for warmth or swapping the herbs to tailor the recipe to your menu. You can also turn this into a full meal by serving the shrimp over pasta, rice, or grilled vegetables. Below are a few ideas to experiment with.

• Add white wine to the marinade for classic scampi depth.
• Use basil or cilantro instead of parsley.
• Brush shrimp with garlic butter as they cook for richer flavor.
• Serve over linguine for a grilled twist on shrimp scampi pasta.
• Add cherry tomatoes to the grill for extra brightness.

Best pairings

Grilled shrimp scampi pairs easily with fresh, vibrant sides that complement its citrus and garlic notes. Keep the meal light with crisp salads or grilled vegetables, or make it heartier with grains or pasta. A chilled white wine—or sparkling water with lemon—balances the richness of the butter and olive oil beautifully.

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Orzo tossed with herbs and lemon
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or toasted sourdough
• Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Conclusion

Grilled shrimp scampi is a simple, flavorful dish that highlights fresh ingredients and bold citrus-garlic notes. Its quick cooking time makes it ideal for weeknights, yet it’s impressive enough for gatherings. Enjoy it as a standalone entrée or pair it with your favorite sides to create a complete, satisfying meal that tastes like summer on a plate.

Whether you're a seafood fan or just want a fast, delicious grill recipe, this shrimp scampi delivers every time. Fire up the grill and savor the bright, smoky flavors.