Ingredients
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, use ¼ teaspoon for less spice)
Main
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse the shrimp with a zesty and aromatic flavor.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade bowl, tossing to coat all the shrimp evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the seafood.
- Discard Used Marinade: Before cooking, remove the shrimp from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade to avoid contamination during cooking.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Optionally, thread the shrimp onto skewers for easier handling. Cook the shrimp directly on the grill grates or skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and pink, indicating they are cooked through.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink, ensuring even cooking and a delicate sear.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 5 minutes. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 400°F for 3 minutes. Flip the shrimp and air fry for an additional 1 to 5 minutes until cooked through and tender.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for best marinade absorption and ease of eating.
- Marinate shrimp for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid the acid in lemon zest overcooking the shrimp.
- If grilling, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance.
- Always discard leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw shrimp to prevent foodborne illness.
- Cooking times may vary slightly based on shrimp size; shrimp are done when opaque and pink.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-10 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American