If you are craving a fresh, vibrant seafood dish that dazzles with simplicity and flavor, the Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe is your new best friend. This dish captures the perfect balance of charred smoky goodness and zesty citrus brightness, making it irresistible for any occasion. Bursting with garlicky lemon notes and a hint of chili heat, these king prawns transform an ordinary meal into a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet vibrant ingredients is the first step toward making magic on your grill. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and beautiful color on your plate.
- 1 1/2 pounds raw king prawns: Choose peeled and deveined prawns with tails on for that perfect bite and easy handling on the grill.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the prawns for a luscious finish.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic injects a bold, aromatic punch that pairs wonderfully with the seafood.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Bright citrus oils and juice are essential to elevate the prawns with zesty freshness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds herbal brightness and color contrast.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): A gentle heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the delicate prawns.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: To perfectly season and enhance all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and spice.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Extra bursts of citrus to squeeze over the prawns just before eating.
How to Make Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining olive oil, freshly minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chili flakes if you like some heat, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is where all the freshness and savory flavors marry perfectly. Toss the raw king prawns in the mixture until every piece is well-coated, then cover and let them absorb the flavors in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This step is the secret to juicy, flavorful prawns.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
To get those signature char marks, set your grill or a grill pan on the stove to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the prawns quickly, locking in juices and creating a beautiful smoky crust. This preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Step 3: Thread and Grill the Prawns
For easier handling, especially if you’re cooking a crowd, thread the marinated prawns onto skewers. This also helps them cook evenly and makes flipping a breeze. Grill each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until the prawns turn pink, opaque, and have those irresistible charred grill lines. Watch carefully because the cooking happens fast—overcooked prawns can become rubbery, and we definitely want tender, juicy bites.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Once off the grill, serve the char-grilled king prawns with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color and zing. The contrast between the smoky char and the bright citrus makes each bite delightful and fresh.
How to Serve Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley sprigs or a light drizzle of olive oil can brighten the dish even more. Don’t underestimate the power of a few lemon wedges served alongside to elevate every forkful with a sharp, tangy burst.
Side Dishes
These prawns are incredibly versatile. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette, fluffy herb-infused rice to soak up all those delicious tropical juices, or even some warm, crusty bread. Choose your side based on the mood and occasion—the dish shines in casual or elegant settings alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the prawns on a large platter layered with lemon slices and fresh herbs. You could also layer them over a bed of mixed greens or even skewer them individually and arrange them standing around a bright bowl of dipping sauce. The vibrant colors and smoky aroma will be the star of any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two days. Keep in mind that reheated prawns can lose some of their original texture, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh whenever possible.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked char-grilled king prawns tightly wrapped or in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When you’re ready, thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the prawns in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave. Avoid high heat as it can toughen the prawns. Adding a little splash of water or lemon juice while reheating will keep them moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly in the refrigerator before marinating to ensure even cooking and the best flavor.
What can I use instead of chili flakes?
If you want a milder version or don’t have chili flakes, paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle warmth without overwhelming the dish.
Is it necessary to thread the prawns on skewers?
Not at all! Skewers help with grilling and flipping, but you can cook the prawns directly on the grill or grill pan if you prefer. Just use tongs carefully to turn them.
Can I cook this recipe indoors?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan or broiler works wonderfully if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. The key is to get a nice char while cooking quickly.
How long do I marinate the prawns?
About 20 to 30 minutes is perfect—long enough for the flavors to meld without breaking down the prawns’ texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity, freshness, and bold flavor that makes every meal feel like a small celebration. I warmly encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and destined to become a beloved favorite at your table.
Print
Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Char-Grilled King Prawns with Lemon recipe offers a delicious and healthy Mediterranean seafood dish featuring succulent king prawns marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, then perfectly grilled to achieve a smoky char and tender texture. Ideal for a quick main course, it combines fresh herbs and optional chili flakes for a subtle kick, served with bright lemon wedges to enhance the flavor.
Ingredients
Marinade and Prawns
- 1 1/2 pounds (700g) raw king prawns, peeled and deveined (leave tails on if desired)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, chopped parsley, chili flakes if using, sea salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the prawns: Add the peeled and deveined king prawns to the bowl with the marinade. Toss thoroughly to ensure each prawn is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the prawns for 20 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat, preparing it for cooking the prawns.
- Skewer the prawns: For easier grilling and turning, thread the marinated prawns onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each prawn.
- Grill the prawns: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Grill until the prawns turn pink, become opaque, and have slight charring for that smoky flavor.
- Serve immediately: Remove the prawns from the grill and transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, incorporate a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika into the marinade.
- These prawns can alternatively be cooked on a stovetop grill pan or broiled indoors if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
- Pair with rice, fresh salad, or crusty bread to complement and enjoy the flavorful marinade juices fully.
