Grilled Prawns

Introduction:

Grilled prawns are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy seafood, packed with flavor from a marinade of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. The high heat of the grill gives the prawns a slight char while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This dish is ideal for barbecues or quick, light meals, and pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg large prawns (peeled and deveined, tails on)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade:
   In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, cilantro, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. This marinade will add both freshness and a slight smoky flavor to the prawns.
2. Marinate the prawns:
   Add the prawns to the marinade, tossing them to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the prawns.
3. Preheat the grill:
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the prawns from sticking.
4. Grill the prawns:
   Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers for easy grilling (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand). Grill the prawns for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink, opaque, and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become rubbery.
5. Serve:
   Remove the prawns from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Health Notes:

• Prawns are a low-calorie, high-protein food, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. However, they are naturally high in sodium, so be mindful of salt content in the marinade. For a healthier option, use less salt and replace some of the olive oil with a light spray oil.

Serving Suggestions:

• Grilled prawns are best served hot off the grill with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a light, fresh salad. They also pair well with garlic butter or aioli as a dipping sauce. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread and a glass of chilled white wine or a citrusy cocktail.

Tips:

• Shell-on vs. peeled: Leaving the shell on during grilling can add more flavor, but peeled prawns are easier to eat. You can grill them either way depending on your preference.
• Avoid overcooking: Prawns cook quickly, so be sure to watch them closely. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
• Use skewers: Threading the prawns onto skewers makes flipping and grilling easier, ensuring even cooking.