This Grilled Shrimp and Shallots recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with the sweet and smoky taste of grilled shallots. Perfect as an appetizer or served over rice for a satisfying dinner, it’s seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, Italian herbs, and cracked black pepper. The addition of chopped cilantro adds a fresh finish to this delightful seafood dish.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, shelled and deveined
- 1 or 2 shallots, finely sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon instant vegetable stock (or 1/2 teaspoon salt)
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, for serving
Directions
- In a large bowl, season the shrimp with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and instant vegetable stock.
- Heat your grill or griddle to medium heat and cook the seasoned shrimp for 2 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove the shrimp to a serving platter.
- On the same grill, cook the sliced shallots, tossing them with a wooden spoon or tongs. Remove the shallots and sprinkle them over the shrimp.
- Add chopped cilantro to the grilled shrimp and shallots and serve immediately.
Nutrients
Approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
The Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is often celebrated as a nutritional powerhouse. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. A typical serving of shrimp contains more than 20 grams of protein, making it ideal for those focused on building or maintaining lean muscle mass.
Additionally, shrimp is low in calories and contains virtually no carbohydrates, which fits perfectly into low-carb or ketogenic dietary plans. It also contains important nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and iodine, which play crucial roles in metabolism, nerve function, bone health, and thyroid regulation.
One of the lesser-known benefits of shrimp is its content of antioxidants, such as astaxanthin, which gives shrimp its pinkish color when cooked. Astaxanthin has been linked to anti-inflammatory effects and the promotion of heart and brain health.
Why Choose Grilling?
Grilling seafood, including shrimp, is a fantastic cooking method that enhances flavor without adding unnecessary fats or oils. When shrimp is grilled, it gains a slight char and smoky undertone that other cooking methods, like boiling or steaming, cannot replicate. Grilling also preserves the shrimp’s tender texture and prevents it from becoming rubbery if done correctly.
Moreover, grilling is an outdoor-friendly cooking method, perfect for social gatherings during warmer months. It allows for quick cooking and easy cleanup, especially when skewers or grilling baskets are used. Grilled shallots, in particular, gain a delicious caramelized sweetness and subtle smokiness that contrasts beautifully with the shrimp’s briny flavor.
The Role of Shallots in This Dish
Shallots may often be overshadowed by garlic and onions in everyday cooking, but they deserve special attention for their unique flavor profile. Shallots offer a milder, sweeter, and more complex flavor than regular onions, which works wonderfully when grilled alongside shrimp.
When grilled, shallots become tender and slightly sweet, adding a depth of flavor and aromatic complexity to the dish. This gentle sweetness balances the savory and spicy seasonings typically used with shrimp, creating a harmonious and layered taste experience.
Additionally, shallots provide beneficial nutrients like antioxidants and compounds that promote heart health, making them a smart addition not only for flavor but also for nutrition.
Seasonings and Flavor Profile
The seasoning blend used in this grilled shrimp recipe is a simple yet effective mix of garlic powder, Italian herbs, cracked black pepper, and a touch of vegetable stock or salt. Garlic powder adds a rich, savory foundation without the intensity of fresh garlic, which can sometimes burn on the grill. Italian herbs bring aromatic notes like oregano, basil, and thyme, which elevate the overall flavor without overpowering the shrimp’s natural taste.
The cracked black pepper offers a mild heat and texture contrast, while the instant vegetable stock or salt enhances the umami flavor, making the shrimp taste more robust and satisfying. Fresh chopped cilantro at the end adds a burst of freshness and a slightly citrusy note, balancing the smoky, savory elements with brightness.
Versatility of Grilled Shrimp and Shallots
One of the best things about grilled shrimp and shallots is how versatile this dish is. It can be served as a standalone appetizer, making it perfect for cocktail parties or light meals. When paired with a fresh green salad or quinoa, it transforms into a nutritious lunch or dinner.
This dish also works beautifully as a topping for rice bowls, pasta, or even as a filling in wraps and tacos. The flavors pair well with a wide variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to creamy coleslaw or zesty salsa. Its quick cooking time means it can easily be adapted to busy schedules without sacrificing taste or quality.
Moreover, the recipe can be easily customized. You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime for added acidity, incorporate different herbs such as parsley or dill, or introduce a touch of spice with chili flakes or smoked paprika to suit your personal taste preferences.
Health Considerations
Grilled shrimp and shallots is not only delicious but also aligned with healthy eating habits. It’s naturally gluten-free and low in fat, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. The lean protein in shrimp supports weight management and muscle maintenance, while the antioxidants from shrimp and shallots contribute to overall health and immune support.
Because shrimp is a seafood that’s often associated with concerns about cholesterol, it’s important to understand that shrimp contains dietary cholesterol but is low in saturated fat, which means it has a minimal effect on blood cholesterol levels for most people. Including shrimp as part of a balanced diet can be heart-healthy when consumed in moderation.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp
To achieve perfectly grilled shrimp, it’s essential to monitor cooking times closely since shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and have nice grill marks.
Marinating shrimp briefly before grilling can boost flavor and tenderness, but even with just a simple seasoning blend like in this recipe, shrimp can be incredibly flavorful. Using wooden or metal skewers can help keep shrimp secure and make flipping easier on the grill.
When grilling shallots, keep an eye on them to prevent burning while allowing them to soften and caramelize. Tossing or turning them frequently will ensure even cooking and maximize their sweet flavor.
Culinary Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Grilled shrimp and shallots pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and beverages. For a light meal, serve with a crisp garden salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.
For heartier options, accompany with grilled corn, roasted potatoes, or a wild rice pilaf. The smoky flavors of the shrimp and shallots also complement Mediterranean-inspired sides like hummus, tabbouleh, or grilled pita bread.
As for drinks, chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the seafood’s delicate flavors, while a citrusy beer or sparkling water with a slice of lemon can also refresh the palate.
Conclusion
Grilled shrimp and shallots is a simple yet elegant dish that offers tremendous flavor with minimal effort. Its quick preparation, combined with the nutritional benefits of shrimp and the sweet complexity of grilled shallots, makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy healthy, flavorful seafood.