If there’s one dish that will have your guests buzzing long after the last bite, it’s this Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli. Juicy, perfectly charred shrimp are tossed in a bold marinade of garlic, Parmesan, and just the right pinch of heat, then finished with a zesty, creamy sauce bursting with fresh lemon and herbs. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or jazzing up your summer gatherings, this recipe will have everyone dipping, savoring, and reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli is in the mix of simple, fresh ingredients that each play a starring role. From the smoky, crisped shrimp to the tangy aioli, every bite is vibrant, colorful, and full of flavor.
- Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled and deveined): The blank canvas for all the bold flavors to shine, shrimp grills quickly and soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds smooth richness and helps the seasoning cling to the shrimp for even flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The star aroma and punchy foundation of the marinade.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Brings that lively heat—add more or less depending on your spice preference.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle smoky depth and an appealing reddish hue.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Melts into a salty, savory crust on the shrimp as they grill.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Brighten and balance all the flavors.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): Lends fresh color and a hint of herby crunch.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base for the Lemon-Herb Aioli, making it luxuriously smooth.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds vibrant acidity and zing to the sauce.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the citrus punch and aroma—don’t skip it!
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Carries the garlic flavor into your creamy aioli.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Brings herbaceous, garden-fresh flavor to the sauce.
- Dijon mustard (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just enough kick and body, bringing the aioli together.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season to perfection so the flavors truly pop.
How to Make Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss your shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each shrimp is luxuriously coated in all that good stuff. Let them chill in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes—the flavors deepen so much in that short time, and your shrimp will turn out juicier and more delicious.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon-Herb Aioli
While the shrimp soak up their marinade, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Dijon mustard, and a good pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and tweak until it’s just the right balance of creamy, tangy, and herby. This Lemon-Herb Aioli is what makes Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli impossible to put down!
Step 3: Fire Up the Grill
Get your grill or grill pan going over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them first so they don’t burn. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers—they cook more evenly and are easier to handle on the grill, but you can also grill them straight if you prefer.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Lay the shrimp over direct heat and grill for about 2 to 3 minutes a side. Watch for those beautiful grill marks and a little golden Parmesan crust. Once the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and slightly charred, they’re ready. Don’t overcook them—a little charring is perfect, but too long and they’ll lose their tenderness!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the shrimp on a platter and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot, with the Lemon-Herb Aioli on the side for dipping, or lovingly drizzled on top. Every bite of this Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli is a little celebration!
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli
Garnishes
A shower of chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds bright color and an extra flavor accent. For even more vibrancy, try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or nestle a few lemon wedges around your platter. These simple touches really make your Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli feel like restaurant-worthy fare.
Side Dishes
You cannot go wrong pairing this dish with a crisp green salad, a refreshing cucumber-tomato mix, or some garlicky roasted veggies. For something more filling, serve your Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli over fluffy rice, creamy risotto, or alongside toasted slices of baguette to soak up every bit of that dreamy aioli.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, thread single shrimp onto picks and serve with tiny cups of aioli for dipping. Hosting brunch? Drop grilled shrimp on top of avocado toast with a swirl of that Lemon-Herb Aioli. Or make crowd-pleasing tacos—pile shrimp, crunchy slaw, and a dollop of aioli in warm tortillas. Your Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli is a stunning main, a zesty salad-topper, or a party-ready snack!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp and aioli will keep in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp are even tasty chilled in salads or wraps, and the aioli is fabulous as a dipping sauce for veggies or spread on sandwiches the next day.
Freezing
While shrimp can be frozen after cooking, the texture is best when enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze them, let them cool completely then freeze flat in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. The aioli, on the other hand, does not freeze well—so whip up a fresh batch when you’re ready to enjoy Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli again.
Reheating
For best results, reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in a 300°F oven until just warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them rubbery. The Lemon-Herb Aioli is best served chilled or at room temperature—give it a stir before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. Pat them dry very well so the marinade clings, and you’ll still get fantastic results with your Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli.
Is there a way to make the aioli lighter?
Yes, if you want something a bit lighter, substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You’ll still get that tangy, creamy flavor and it’s a wonderful twist for lighter meals.
What if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
No problem. These shrimp cook up beautifully on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook, and you’ll enjoy the same delicious Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli experience.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
You sure can. Mix up the marinade (minus the shrimp) a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just toss with shrimp and proceed. The Lemon-Herb Aioli can also be made a day ahead for even quicker prep.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a gentle, warming heat that’s beautifully balanced by the creamy aioli and Parmesan. Want more spice? Just add extra red pepper flakes. Prefer it milder? Dial the spice back to suit your taste and everyone will love your Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to taste the vibrant layers of flavor in Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli. It’s a show-stopper every time, and so simple to make at home. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or treating yourself to a little luxury, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Fire up the grill, grab your shrimp, and let’s get cooking!
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Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp with Lemon-Herb Aioli is a delicious seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, Parmesan, and spices, then grilled to perfection. Served with a zesty lemon-herb aioli, this dish is perfect for summer grilling or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Lemon-Herb Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Shrimp: Thread shrimp onto skewers if using. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
- Prepare the Aioli: Whisk together all lemon-herb aioli ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Serve grilled shrimp hot with aioli on the side or drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute the grill for a stovetop grill pan or broiler.
- For a lighter option, swap mayo in the aioli with Greek yogurt.
- Great served over salad, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
