Seafood lovers, rejoice! Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli is here to take your taste buds on a wild, flavorful ride. The shrimp are perfectly grilled to tender, juicy perfection, coated in a rich, garlicky Parmesan crust, and finished off with a zesty kick from red pepper flakes. When paired with the creamy, tangy lemon-herb aioli, this dish becomes a crowd-pleaser that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a barbecue, or a special gathering, this dish promises to be a hit every time!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- A Flavor-packed Bite: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes creates a bold and satisfying flavor that complements the natural sweetness of shrimp.
- Crispy and Tender Shrimp: Grilled to perfection, these shrimp are crispy on the outside yet juicy and tender on the inside.
- Creamy and Zesty Aioli: The homemade lemon-herb aioli adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the spicy shrimp, enhancing every bite.
- Quick and Easy: This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, weekend cookouts, or even special occasions.
Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for an extra garlic kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to complement the garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds flavor and a crispy coating)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Lemon-Herb Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (the creamy base of the aioli)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (adds tanginess and creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill (adds a refreshing herbaceous note)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (to season)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by placing your shrimp in a bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and season with garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. The Parmesan cheese will give them a beautiful, crispy texture when grilled, while the spices provide a fiery kick.
2. Grill the Shrimp:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the shrimp on the grill, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and slightly charred. You’ll know they’re done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook very quickly!
3. Make the Lemon-Herb Aioli:
While the shrimp are grilling, prepare the lemon-herb aioli. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This aioli will add the perfect creamy, tangy contrast to the spicy shrimp.
4. Serve:
Once the shrimp are grilled to perfection, arrange them on a serving plate. Serve with a generous side of the lemon-herb aioli for dipping. This aioli is creamy, zesty, and packed with fresh herb flavors that elevate the shrimp to a whole new level.
Tips for the Perfect Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicier, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of spice.
- Air Fry for Extra Crispiness: If you have an air fryer, you can cook the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This method will make the shrimp extra crispy and golden.
- Skewer the Shrimp: If grilling on an open flame, consider skewering the shrimp to make flipping them easier and ensure they don’t slip through the grill grates.
- Substitute the Aioli Ingredients: If you don’t have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. You can also swap the fresh dill for other herbs like parsley or basil, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the shrimp and aioli over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh salad, such as a Mediterranean salad or a light green salad, to balance out the rich flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: Complement the shrimp with grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
FAQs
Can I make the lemon-herb aioli in advance?
Yes! The aioli can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the shrimp on the stovetop in a skillet over medium-high heat, or even bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
Conclusion
This Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli is a perfect combination of bold, spicy, and creamy flavors that will impress any guest. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with mouthwatering goodness. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy. So fire up that grill (or skillet) and enjoy this explosion of flavor!