Zesty Grilled Shrimp Scampi

Fire up your grill and prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience with this divine Grilled Shrimp Scampi. Infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh lemon, pungent garlic, aromatic basil, and a subtle tang from grainy mustard, this dish transcends the ordinary, offering a phenomenal entree that is both sophisticated and incredibly simple to prepare. It’s truly a delicious and effortless recipe, perfect for ushering in the sun-drenched days of summer grilling season!

While the classic elements of a shrimp scampi remain at its heart, the true genius of this particular Recipe for Shrimp Scampi lies not just in its ingredients, but profoundly in its technique. By taking this beloved dish to the grill, particularly over hot charcoal, you infuse the sweet, succulent shrimp with an incredible smoky depth. This grilling method elevates the traditional garlicky butter sauce, adding a complex layer of flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a truly remarkable dish that stands out from typical stovetop preparations.

Grilled Shrimp Scampi on skewers on a serving plate with basil and lemon slices.

Contents

The Allure of Grilled Shrimp Scampi: A Summer Essential

When the words “shrimp scampi” cross your mind, you likely envision pasta glistening with buttery, garlicky shrimp. While undeniably delicious, this grilled rendition offers a fresh, exciting take that is nothing short of fabulous. It reimagines a beloved classic, making it lighter, smokier, and perfect for outdoor dining.

Historically, the very concept of scampi as we know it in the United States was born from Italian immigrants applying their masterful culinary techniques to the ingredients available in their new home. This adaptation speaks to the inherent versatility and timeless appeal of scampi. In this recipe, we embrace that spirit of innovation by introducing grilling as the primary cooking method.

You might wonder if adding ingredients like grainy mustard and fresh basil, or indeed, the act of grilling itself, deviates too much from a “purist’s” interpretation of scampi. Rest assured, these thoughtful additions and the unique cooking method only enhance the dish, adding layers of flavor without betraying its essence. The grainy mustard introduces a subtle piquancy that brightens the overall profile, while fresh basil offers an herbaceous counterpoint to the rich garlic and lemon. The grill, meanwhile, imparts a smoky char that elevates every bite, making this a truly memorable and modern interpretation of a classic.

**Unforgettable Flavor Profile:** The combination of a vibrant lemon-garlic-basil marinade with the unmistakable smoky char from the grill creates a depth of flavor that a stovetop method simply cannot achieve.
**Effortless Entertaining:** This recipe is deceptively simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for summer gatherings, backyard BBQs, or a relaxed weeknight dinner. Most of the work is in the marinating!
**Healthy and Wholesome:** Shrimp is a lean protein source, and grilling keeps the dish light while still delivering immense flavor. It’s a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
**A Modern Classic:** By embracing the grill, you’re taking a beloved comfort food and transforming it into a contemporary outdoor dining experience, perfect for those who appreciate both tradition and innovation in their cooking.

Mastering the Grill: Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi

Achieving perfectly grilled shrimp scampi requires a few key insights and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting, these tips will help you create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and boasts an impeccable texture.

My husband, bless his heart, is a purist when it comes to grilling. Despite my longing for the convenience of a gas grill, he steadfastly insists on charcoal. And I must admit, he has a point. The distinct smoky deliciousness imparted by charcoal is unparalleled. While it might be a bit messier (which I’m now embracing as my excuse for living in yoga pants 24/7!), the flavor payoff is undeniably worth it. The shrimp, for instance, were absolutely phenomenal, with the grilling process adding a marvelous nuance to the already flavorful marinade.

However, don’t feel limited. While charcoal offers an incredible smoky flavor, a gas grill is often easier to control and provides consistent heat. Feel free to use whatever grilling method you have available. The most important thing is to get that high heat and quick cook time for tender, juicy shrimp.

**Selecting Your Shrimp:** Always opt for jumbo or large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count per pound) for grilling. Smaller shrimp cook too quickly and are prone to overcooking. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed properly) work perfectly too. Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or in a colander under cold running water for about 15-20 minutes. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best experience.
**The Marinade Magic:** The key to deeply flavorful shrimp lies in the marinade. The combination of olive oil, melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, grainy mustard, minced basil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a complete seasoning mix creates a symphony of tastes. Don’t skip the grainy mustard; it adds a fantastic savory depth and subtle tang. Marinate for about an hour in the refrigerator. Any longer and the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp (ceviche-style), altering its texture.
PRO-Tip: Swift Sizzle for Succulent Shrimp. Shrimp cook incredibly quickly over high heat, so speed is your ally. Aim for just 1-2 minutes per side. Their delicate protein structure means they can go from perfectly tender to rubbery in a flash. Watch them closely and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re done.
**Skewering Smarts:** If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning over the hot coals or flames. Metal skewers are a convenient, reusable alternative and don’t require soaking.
PRO-Tip: Double Skewer for Easy Flipping. For optimal grilling and hassle-free turning, use two skewers threaded through each shrimp, as demonstrated in the photos. This clever technique “locks” the shrimp in place, preventing them from spinning around when you try to flip them and ensuring even cooking on both sides.
**Visual Cues for Doneness:** Your eyes are your best tool for judging when shrimp are perfectly cooked. They will transition from translucent grey to opaque pink. Look for them to gently curl. If they curl into a soft “C” shape, they are cooked to perfection – juicy and tender. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they are likely overcooked and may have a rubbery texture.
**Temperature Matters:** The exact cooking time will vary depending on the temperature of your grill, the size of your shrimp, and even external factors like ambient temperature. A hot grill is essential for a quick sear. Aim for medium-high heat.
**Pre-Grill Flavor Boost:** Before placing the skewered shrimp on the grill, gently microwave any leftover marinade from the pan (just enough to warm it, not cook it) and brush it over the shrimp. This adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
If you consider yourself a shrimp lover, this extraordinary grilled shrimp scampi is truly a must-make. It delivers on flavor, ease, and that irresistible summer BBQ charm!

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Grilled Shrimp Scampi

This vibrant Grilled Shrimp Scampi is a showstopper on its own, but it truly shines when accompanied by the right side dishes and beverages. Here are some inspired suggestions to complete your meal:

**Wine Pairing Perfection:** We found that a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, with its bright citrus notes of lemon peel and grapefruit, beautifully complements the garlicky, lemony flavors of the shrimp. Other excellent choices include Pinot Grigio, Grüner Veltliner, or a light rosé.
**Crusty Bread for Sopping:** A warm, crusty loaf of artisanal bread or generous slices of Garlic Bread are absolutely essential. They’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delectable, buttery, garlicky marinade and juices left on the plate.
**Fresh Green Vegetables:** Brighten your plate with simple yet elegant vegetable sides. Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Browned Butter or flavorful Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich shrimp. A simple steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach would also be delightful.
**Hearty Grains & Starches:** For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside a light Italian Rice Pilaf with Toasted Almonds or creamy Parmesan Polenta. Quinoa or couscous infused with fresh herbs would also make an excellent, healthier accompaniment.
**Refreshing Salads:** A crisp and zesty salad can cut through the richness of the shrimp. A classic Caesar Salad offers a creamy, tangy contrast, while a vibrant Guacamole Salad or a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would add a fresh, herbaceous element.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Shrimp Scampi

Here are answers to some common questions about shrimp scampi and how to make this grilled version a success:

What exactly is Scampi?

According to the esteemed Food Lover’s Companion, “scampi” is the Italian term for small, lobster-like crustaceans, specifically the tail portion of species like the Dublin Bay prawn or Norway lobster. However, in the United States, the culinary term “shrimp scampi” typically refers to a dish featuring large, split shrimp (not scampi crustaceans themselves) that are often broiled or sautéed with a generous brushing of garlic butter, usually incorporating white wine and lemon.

What ingredients are commonly used in a traditional Scampi sauce?

While variations exist, the core components of a classic scampi sauce typically include a rich blend of butter (often clarified or melted) and/or high-quality olive oil, dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc), plenty of minced garlic, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, and a generous squeeze of freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Fresh parsley or basil is often added at the end for an herbaceous finish.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! High-quality frozen shrimp are a perfectly acceptable and often more convenient option, especially if you don’t have access to truly fresh shrimp. Ensure they are fully thawed before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, place the frozen shrimp in a colander under cold running water for 15-20 minutes, gently separating them. Pat them thoroughly dry before marinating.

How can I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Several factors help prevent sticking. First, ensure your grill grates are clean. Scrub them well with a wire brush after preheating. Second, oil the grates generously right before adding the shrimp. You can use a paper towel dipped in high-smoke-point oil (like grapeseed or canola) held with tongs. Third, make sure the grill is hot enough. A hot surface sears the shrimp quickly, preventing adhesion. Finally, don’t move the shrimp too soon – let them develop a slight char and natural release before attempting to flip.

Can I prepare the shrimp marinade ahead of time?

You can certainly mix the marinade ingredients several hours or even a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the shrimp to the marinade no more than 1-2 hours before grilling. The lemon juice in the marinade, while delicious, is acidic and can start to “cook” or denature the shrimp’s protein if left for too long, leading to a mushy texture.

What if I don’t have an outdoor grill? Can I still make this recipe?

Yes! While an outdoor grill imparts the best smoky flavor, you can absolutely make a fantastic version indoors. Use a cast-iron grill pan on your stovetop, heated to medium-high. Ensure the pan is well-oiled and hot before adding the shrimp. Alternatively, you can broil the shrimp in your oven. Place them on a baking sheet and broil for 2-4 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent overcooking.

More Irresistible Seafood Creations

If you’re a fan of succulent shrimp and other delightful seafood, you’ll love exploring these additional recipes from our kitchen and our friends:

Beer Battered Buffalo Shrimp Sliders from Tidy Mom
Grilled Spicy Salt and Pepper Shrimp Skewers from Boulder Locavore
Sweet and Spicy Baked Coconut Shrimp Dip from Country Cleaver
Rosemary Prosciutto Shrimp
Margarita Shrimp
Baked Garlic Shrimp
Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Maple Mustard Glazed Salmon
Explore more of our Delicious Seafood Recipes

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The Recipe:

Grilled Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Prep Time
20 minutes

Cook Time
4 minutes

Total Time
24 minutes

Yield
6 servings

A fabulous grilled version of the classic shrimp scampi.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of half a lemon
1½ tablespoons grainy mustard
¼ cup minced basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon Badia spices complete seasoning mix or Morton Nature’s Season
2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

Instructions

In a shallow glass dish (I used my 9×13-inch Pyrex cake pan), mix together olive oil, butter, lemon juice and zest, mustard, basil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and seasoning mix.
Add shrimp and stir till the shrimp are coated with the paste.
Place in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Prepare grill. Thread shrimp onto skewers. Gently microwave any marinade left in the pan and smear over skewered shrimp.
Grill for approximately 2 minutes per side or till just starting to turn pink. Serve hot.

Notes

Grill just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and curl into a C-shape. Overcooking will make them rubbery and tough. A quick cooking time is essential for juicy results.

If you don’t have access to Badia Complete Seasoning, a general all-purpose seasoning salt like Morton’s Nature’s Seasoning or a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper can be used as a substitute to enhance the overall flavor profile of the shrimp.

HOW MUCH DID YOU LOVE THIS RECIPE?

We hope you enjoyed creating and savoring this grilled shrimp scampi! Please leave a comment on the blog with your feedback or share a photo of your delicious results on Pinterest – we’d love to see it!