Grilling shrimp is like trying to hold a wet bar of soap over a fire. But it’s worth it. The smoky flavor is a gift from the gods.
Skewer them first. Soak wooden skewers so they don’t turn into torches. Or use metal ones. Don’t crowd the shrimp on the skewer—give them space to breathe.
How to Cook Raw Shrimp: Timing and Methods Simplified
Grill over medium-high heat. About 2 to 3 minutes per side. The total time is 4 to 6 minutes.
Watch for the color change. Flip them when the bottoms are pink and the sides turn white. If you see flames? You’re too hot. Move them to a cooler zone.
The Sauce Question
Should you marinate shrimp? Yes. But only for 15 to 30 minutes. Those little guys are sponges. Leave them in acid (like lemon juice) for an hour, and they’ll start “cooking” in the marinade, turning mushy.
It’s called ceviche, and it’s delicious. But not if you planned to grill them. So keep it short. Oil, garlic, salt, pepper. Maybe a splash of lime. In and out.
