If you’re looking for a show-stopping seafood dish that’s as spectacular as it is simple, look no further than Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. These juicy, smoky king prawns are bathed in fragrant olive oil, zesty lemon, punchy garlic, and just the right touch of spice, then grilled to succulent perfection. Whether you’re hosting a sunny cookout or indulging in a special weeknight treat, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into pure Mediterranean magic, and you’ll crave it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is how everyday kitchen staples transform the prawns into something unforgettable. Each ingredient brings its own flair, amplifying the taste, juiciness, and gleaming color that make this dish such a crowd-pleaser.
- King prawns (2 lbs, shell-on and deveined): The star ingredient—choose prawns for their meatiness and ability to soak up every ounce of marinade.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness, helps the spices cling, and ensures a gorgeous finish on the grill.
- Lemon (zest and juice of 1): Brightens the prawns with zippy citrus, both tenderizing and flavoring in every bite.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Classic Mediterranean depth and warmth—don’t skimp for ultimate flavor.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Provides that signature smoky hue and an irresistible savoriness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a sneaky kick; add more or less depending on your heat tolerance.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Fundamental, bringing all the other flavors into sharp focus.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A pop of color and herby lift at the finish.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): Essential for squeezing fresh zing over the piping-hot prawns just before serving.
How to Make Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the olive oil, the zest and juice from your lemon, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. You’ll notice the vibrant color and bold aroma right away—this simple mixture is where all the deep flavors begin. The lemon juice will start to gently tenderize the prawns, while the olive oil and spices permeate them with savory goodness.
Step 2: Marinate the King Prawns
Add the prawns to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every piece is delightfully coated with the marinade. Slide them into the refrigerator and let them soak up the flavors for at least 20–30 minutes. If you have extra time, marinating for up to 2 hours intensifies the lemony-garlicky flavor and amps up the tenderness. Don’t go longer, or the acid may toughen the prawns.
Step 3: Fire Up the Grill
While the prawns marinate, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Give it time to get nice and hot—this is what creates the charred, smoky edges that make this dish irresistible. A quick brush of oil on the grates will prevent sticking and aid in those beautiful char marks.
Step 4: Grill the Prawns
Shake off the excess marinade and lay the prawns directly on the grill. Grill for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until they curl and become opaque, blushing a pinkish-orange and picking up lovely charred patches. Watch them closely; king prawns cook fast and you don’t want to lose any juiciness.
Step 5: Plate and Finish
Transfer your sizzling prawns to a serving platter. Sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness, then nestle extra lemon wedges around the platter. Serve immediately—it’s the best way to enjoy the full smoky-citrusy punch of Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe.
How to Serve Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
A generous shower of freshly chopped parsley and a final hit of sea salt really light up the flavors. Lemon wedges are non-negotiable for squeezing more brightness over the smoky prawns. For extra flair, try a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a dusting of Mediterranean sumac for tangy color.
Side Dishes
This dish is versatile; pair it with fluffy couscous, a crisp green salad, or hearty crusty bread to mop up all those flavorful juices. Roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus make fabulous companions. You can even toss the prawns over a bowl of tender pasta with their juices for a Mediterranean-inspired main course.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re going all out, serve Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe family-style on a big platter, allowing guests to peel and eat with their fingers for a fun, interactive meal. For a more elegant take, skewer the prawns before grilling and present them in neat rows over a bed of wild rice or greens. Individual portions on small boards with mini salad mounds look charming for a special starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover prawns should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. They’ll keep for up to 2 days and are wonderful eaten cold or gently reheated for a quick, flavorful meal.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture. While freezing may soften the prawns slightly, the bold flavors hold up well.
Reheating
For the juiciest results, warm the prawns gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil and a spritz of fresh lemon juice, just until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can toughen the meat. Alternatively, enjoy the leftovers cold in salads or wraps.
FAQs
Can I use frozen king prawns?
Absolutely! Just be sure they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry before marinating. Fresh or frozen, quality matters most for the best Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe.
Should I leave the shell on or peel the prawns?
Leaving the shell on during grilling protects the delicate meat, locks in juiciness, and imparts extra flavor. Plus, peeling at the table adds a fun, hands-on element to eating.
Can I make this recipe without an outdoor grill?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan works beautifully. Simply heat it to medium-high, then grill as directed. If you’re in a pinch, a broiler can mimic the fiery char, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika can be used in a pinch, but for that characteristic smoky depth, try a dash of chipotle powder. The tiniest amount goes a long way!
How do I know when the prawns are done?
Prawns cook quickly and are finished when they’re a vibrant pink and just opaque with gentle grill marks. They should feel firm and springy. Overcooked prawns turn rubbery, so keep an eye out!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bring a burst of sunshine to your kitchen, Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is your ticket. With its simple prep and spectacular flavors, this dish is one you’ll turn to for entertaining or simply treating yourself. Dive in, savor each bite, and let every gathering feel like a Mediterranean holiday!
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Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 16 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate flavors of char-grilled king prawns with lemon, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that is both simple and incredibly delicious. This recipe combines the smokiness of grilled prawns with the brightness of lemon and garlic, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs king prawns, shell-on and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Marinade:
- zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Add prawns and toss well to coat. Marinate for 20–30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Grill the Prawns: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill prawns for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink, opaque, and slightly charred.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate the prawns for up to 2 hours.
- Serve with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 760 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg
