If you’re looking to elevate your seafood game and impress friends or family with something truly mouthwatering, the Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish features succulent, juicy king prawns kissed by the smokiness of the grill, brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest, and brought together by a simple yet flavorful marinade. It’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures that’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the delicious flavor profile and creating the perfect texture and color that makes this dish stand out.
- 12 large king prawns, shells on: Keeping the shells on locks in moisture and adds a toasty grilled flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the marinade cling to the prawns and gives a nice sheen when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a sharp, aromatic kick that deepens the taste.
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested): The zest brings a fresh citrus aroma while the juice adds tangy brightness.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a burst of color and a fresh herbal note.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): Perfect for guests to add an extra squeeze of lemon if they desire.
How to Make Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by getting your grill hot—medium-high heat is ideal. You want it hot enough to sear the prawns quickly, creating that signature charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade is the backbone of the dish, infusing the prawns with that lively lemon-garlic flavor that sings after grilling.
Step 3: Marinate the Prawns
Add the king prawns to the bowl and toss them until they’re all generously coated. Let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors can soak in—this short marinating time is just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the prawns without overpowering them.
Step 4: Prepare Skewers
Thread the prawns onto metal skewers for ease of grilling. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water beforehand to avoid any burning, an easy step that saves a lot of frustration.
Step 5: Grill the Prawns
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when the prawns turn a beautiful pink and opaque throughout, with those gorgeous char marks adding texture and flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once off the grill, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the prawns for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side so everyone can brighten up their meal as they wish.
How to Serve Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also add a few twists like finely chopped chili for heat or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth. These garnishes don’t just elevate the look but bring subtle flavor enhancements too.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp green salad, garlic butter asparagus, or a fluffy couscous tossed with herbs. For a more indulgent meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a buttery risotto work beautifully alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the prawns on a wooden board with lemon wedges and dipping sauces like aioli or a spicy chili mayonnaise. Alternatively, arrange them over a bed of fresh greens or rice and drizzle a little extra lemon juice and olive oil on top for a colorful, enticing plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place the cooled prawns in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to two days, making for a quick and tasty protein addition to salads or wraps the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked prawns, it’s best to freeze them before cooking for optimal texture. If you freeze cooked prawns, do so in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the prawns quickly in a hot skillet or in the oven at a low temperature, just until heated through. Avoid overcooking as it can make the prawns tough. A quick squeeze of fresh lemon after reheating brings back vibrancy.
FAQs
Can I use tiger prawns instead of king prawns?
Absolutely! Tiger prawns work just as well and will deliver similar smoky, juicy results. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on their size.
Should the prawn shells be removed before grilling?
Keeps the shells on while grilling to lock in moisture and add flavor. They’re easy to peel once cooked and make a delightful presentation.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be mixed up a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Just toss the prawns in it right before grilling to keep them fresh and flavorful.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the prawns on a grill pan or under a broiler in your oven. Just keep a close eye to avoid overcooking and get those lovely char marks.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s a mild and fresh dish focused on lemon and garlic flavors. However, you can always add chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
Making the Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe is like bringing a burst of coastal sunshine right to your dinner table. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with fresh flavors that never fail to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining loved ones, these prawns are sure to become a beloved favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious magic of perfectly grilled seafood!
Print
Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Description
Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon is a vibrant and flavorful seafood dish featuring large king prawns marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, and fresh lemon. Perfectly grilled to achieve a smoky char while maintaining a juicy interior, this recipe is an easy yet impressive way to enjoy seafood, garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges for an added citrusy punch.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 12 large king prawns, shells on
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to char the prawns effectively.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Prawns: Add the king prawns to the bowl and toss them well to evenly coat with the marinade. Let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Skewer the Prawns: Thread the marinated prawns onto metal skewers or soak wooden skewers in water beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.
- Grill the Prawns: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until the prawns turn pink and opaque, developing a nice char.
- Garnish: Remove the prawns from the grill and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to add brightness and color.
- Serve: Serve immediately alongside lemon wedges to squeeze over the prawns for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling helps prevent them from burning.
- Adjust marinating time if desired, but avoid over-marinating to prevent the prawns from becoming mushy.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated to prevent sticking and to get a good char.
- Consider using fresh lemon for best flavor; bottled lemon juice may alter the taste.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
