Barbecued Colossal Shrimp Recipe

Barbecued Colossal Shrimp: A Father’s Day Feast

I can still smell the smoky aroma wafting from the grill, the sound of sizzling shrimp, and the excited chatter around the picnic table. My dad, a man of few words but a master of the barbecue, always made Father’s Day special. His barbecued shrimp, gigantic and bursting with flavor, were the centerpiece of our celebration – a tradition that continues to this day, carrying with it a legacy of love, laughter, and perfectly grilled seafood.

Recipe Overview:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs colossal raw shrimp, deveined
• Lemon pepper
• Garlic salt
• Hot sauce (such as Tabasco or your favorite brand)
• Olive oil

Equipment Needed:

• Sharp knife
• Perforated grill pan or grill grate
• Basting brush

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Using a sharp knife, butterfly each colossal shrimp. Cut through the back of the shrimp where the vein has been removed, slicing almost all the way through but leaving the tail intact. This allows the shrimp to lay flat and cook evenly.

2. Season the Shrimp: Place the butterflied shrimp, shell side DOWN, side by side on the perforated grill pan or directly on the grill grate. Sprinkle each shrimp generously with lemon pepper and garlic salt.

3. Add a Kick: Add a couple of drops of hot sauce to each shrimp. Use more if you prefer a spicier flavor.

4. Baste with Oil: Using a brush, baste each shrimp with a bit of olive oil. This helps to prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill and adds richness.

5. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your barbecue grill to approximately 350°F (175°C). The temperature may drop slightly once the shrimp are added.

6. Cook to Perfection: Place the grill pan with the shrimp on the preheated grill. Cook for about 18 minutes, or until the shrimp meat springs back when touched. This indicates that the shrimp are cooked through but not overcooked.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve these colossal beauties 3-4 on a plate. You can either allow your guests to remove the shell part themselves or remove the shells prior to serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks:

• Choosing the Right Shrimp: The success of this recipe relies heavily on using colossal shrimp. These are significantly larger than jumbo shrimp and offer a much more impressive presentation and a more substantial bite. If you can’t find colossal shrimp, use jumbo, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Preventing Sticking: Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the shrimp on them. Using a perforated grill pan is highly recommended, as it prevents the shrimp from falling through the grates and allows for better air circulation.
• Don’t Overcook! Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their flavor. The “spring back” test is the best way to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
• Butterfly Technique: The butterflying technique not only helps the shrimp cook evenly but also allows for maximum surface area to be seasoned and grilled. Make sure not to cut all the way through the shrimp; you want the two halves to remain connected at the tail.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking. For a milder flavor, use a few drops; for a spicier flavor, add more or use a hotter variety.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.

Serving & Storage Suggestions:

These barbecued colossal shrimp are fantastic served immediately off the grill. Serve them with a fresh vegetable salad, some crusty bread for soaking up the juices, and a crisp white wine. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, but be careful not to overcook them. These shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can sometimes affect their texture. We don’t recommend freezing cooked shrimp, as this can lead to a rubbery consistency.

Nutritional Information:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	240 kcal	12%
Total Fat	4g	5%
Saturated Fat	1g	3%
Cholesterol	345mg	115%
Sodium	336mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	2g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	0g	0%
Protein	46g	92%

Variations & Substitutions:

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the olive oil for a spicier, garlicky flavor.
• Lemon Herb Shrimp: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano with lemon zest and olive oil for a bright and aromatic marinade.
• Coconut Lime Shrimp: Use coconut milk instead of olive oil and add lime juice and zest for a tropical twist.
• Blackened Shrimp: Sprinkle the shrimp with a blackened seasoning blend before grilling for a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
• Citrus Burst: Substitute lemon pepper with orange pepper for a slightly sweeter and brighter flavor profile.
• Vegetarian option: Large portobello mushrooms can be butterflied and grilled using the same seasoning and basting as a surprisingly good vegetarian alternative.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before grilling. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
A: The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and the meat springs back when touched. Avoid overcooking, as this will make them rubbery.

Q: Can I use a different type of hot sauce?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of hot sauce. A smoky chipotle or a tangy sriracha would both work well.

Q: Can I grill these shrimp indoors?
A: Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or an indoor electric grill. Just be sure to properly ventilate your kitchen.

Q: What side dishes pair well with these barbecued shrimp?
A: Grilled corn on the cob, a fresh summer salad, or a simple side of rice or quinoa would all be excellent choices. Some crusty bread for dipping in any leftover marinade is always a good idea too!

Final Thoughts:

Barbecued colossal shrimp are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. The smoky char, the juicy tenderness, and the burst of flavor create a symphony of taste that is perfect for a summer evening or any special occasion. Don’t be intimidated by the size of these beauties – they are incredibly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. So fire up your grill, gather your loved ones, and create some delicious memories with this Father’s Day-worthy feast. I hope you enjoy this recipe and would love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you add to it! Cheers to good food and good company!