Few dishes manage to capture the magic of summer dining quite like grilled seafood. The smoky aroma rising from the grill, the glistening shells turning a vibrant orange, and the juicy, tender meat infused with garlic and herbs — it all comes together to create a feast that feels both luxurious and comforting.
Garlic Herb Grilled Giant Prawns are the ultimate show-stopper for any occasion. They’re big, bold, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe delivers. With a buttery herb mixture, a splash of fresh lemon, and the irresistible char of grilling, every bite feels indulgent yet refreshing.
This dish is not just food; it’s an experience — the kind that makes your guests lean back, smile, and say, “Wow, that was amazing.”
Ingredients
8 giant prawns, shells on and split open lengthwise
3 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or oregano/thyme mix)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
Garlic Herb Butter (Optional Preparation)
Before grilling, you’ll prepare a luscious garlic herb butter that doubles as both marinade and finishing sauce.
Ingredients for Garlic Herb Butter:
4 tbsp melted unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until smooth and fragrant.
- Reserve half of this mixture for brushing the prawns before grilling, and save the rest for drizzling over the cooked prawns.
Instructions
- Prepare the Prawns
Rinse the prawns under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels.
Using a sharp knife, carefully split each prawn open along the back without cutting all the way through. This allows the garlic herb butter to seep into the meat.
Remove the dark vein running along the back of the prawn, as it can taste gritty.
- Season with Garlic Herb Butter
Brush the prawns generously with the prepared garlic herb butter.
Make sure to coat both the inside flesh and the shell side for maximum flavor.
Let them sit for about 10 minutes while you preheat the grill, allowing the flavors to soak in.
- Grill the Prawns
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Place the prawns shell-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes. The shells should start turning bright orange.
Flip them over and grill for another 2–3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and juicy.
Baste with extra garlic herb butter while grilling to enhance the richness.
- Finish and Serve
Arrange the grilled prawns neatly on a long platter.
Drizzle with the remaining garlic herb butter.
Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Herb Grilled Giant Prawns are delicious on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with the right sides. Consider serving them with:
A light green salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up the butter sauce.
Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen prawns instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling. Fresh prawns tend to have a better texture and flavor. - Do I have to keep the shells on?
Keeping the shells helps retain moisture and adds smoky flavor during grilling. However, you can remove them if you prefer easier eating. - Can I bake the prawns instead of grilling them?
Yes. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place the prawns on a baking tray, and cook for 10–12 minutes. - What herbs can I substitute for Italian seasoning?
You can use oregano, thyme, basil, or rosemary depending on your taste preference. - How do I know when the prawns are fully cooked?
The flesh should turn opaque and the shells bright orange-red. Be careful not to overcook, as prawns can become rubbery.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about seafood cooked over a flame, and these Garlic Herb Grilled Giant Prawns capture that magic perfectly. The combination of buttery garlic, fresh herbs, and smoky grill marks makes this recipe one you’ll come back to time and time again.
Whether served at a festive dinner party, a casual weekend gathering, or a romantic evening for two, this dish guarantees satisfaction. Simple to prepare, stunning to present, and absolutely bursting with flavor — it’s proof that sometimes, the best meals are also the simplest.
