Grilled Shrimp with Leek and Garlic Butter
Prep
20 mins
Cook
15 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite go to meals when I want something impressive but don't have much time. Grilled shrimp with leek and garlic butter comes together in just thirty five minutes total, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special. The shrimp cooks so quickly on the grill while the butter melts into those tender leeks, creating this amazing rich sauce that's hard to resist. Plus, shrimp is packed with protein and selenium, so you're getting real nutrition without any guilt. It's simple, it's elegant, and honestly, it makes you look like you spent way more effort than you actually did.
Ella x
Ingredients
- ¾ kglarge shrimp(peeled and deveined)
- 3leeks(white and light green parts, cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 4 tablespoonsunsalted butter
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoonfresh thyme(chopped)
- 2 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
- 1 teaspoonkosher salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes(optional)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the salt, and half the black pepper.
Tip: Dry shrimp will develop better char marks on the grill.
- 2
Toss leek pieces with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, remaining salt, and pepper. Arrange on a grill basket or skewers to prevent them from falling through the grate.
Tip: Pre-soaking wooden skewers for 30 minutes prevents burning.
- 3
Place leeks on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender with light char marks.
Tip: Leeks should be slightly caramelized for the best flavor.
- 4
While leeks are cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.
Tip: Don't let the garlic brown or it will become bitter.
- 5
Add lemon juice, fresh thyme, red pepper flakes, and parsley to the garlic butter. Stir well and set aside to keep warm.
Tip: This compound butter can be made up to 2 hours ahead.
- 6
When leeks have 2-3 minutes remaining, place shrimp directly on the hot grill grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook.
Tip: Shrimp cook quickly; watch carefully to avoid a rubbery texture.
- 7
Transfer grilled shrimp and leeks to a serving platter and immediately drizzle with the warm garlic butter sauce.
Tip: Serve immediately while everything is hot for the best flavor and texture.
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