How to Cook Shrimp on a BBQ Pit

Shrimp is a popular item for summer cookouts.

Barbecued shrimp is a delectable appetizer or entree for your summer cookouts. Many marinades, spices and herbs complement the flavor of shrimp. These flavorings are easy to prepare and help seal in flavor. Fresh jumbo shrimp are the best choice for grilling, according to the Reader's Digest cooking website, as the smaller shrimp burn easily, tend to fall into the coals and are more difficult to handle. Whether your friends and family enjoy spicy, Cajun-flavored shrimp or prefer the shellfish with just a bit of butter and garlic, "shrimp on the barbie" iis sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Things You'll Need

• Bamboo skewers
• Zipper-style plastic bag
• Favorite marinade and seasonings
• Grilling basket and oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak your bamboo skewers in water for approximately 30 minutes before using them on the grill. This will prevent them from catching on fire from the hot coals.

2. Marinade the shrimp in a zipper-style plastic bag if you desire. Popular choices for shrimp marinades are barbecue sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire, Italian dressing, teriyaki and soy sauce. If you do not have time to marinate your shrimp, you can simply brush them with melted butter and sprinkle them with your favorite seasonings before grilling.

3. Sprinkle some seasoning into the plastic bag. Some you may want to use are garlic, basil, rosemary, Cajun spices or cumin for a Mexican flavor. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least an hour in the refrigerator.

4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving plenty of room for your fingers to grasp the skewers when it is time to turn them over on the grill. Alternately, you can place them into a well-oiled grilling basket. These typically have hinges that allow the basket to open to place the shrimp or vegetables inside and then latch shut. This will prevent any shrimp from winding up in the hot coals.

5. Place the shrimp over moderately hot coals. Shrimp cook quickly. They will need turning after only 3 or 4 minutes, so stay close by to prevent them from overcooking, becoming tough or burned.

6. Turn the shrimp and cook them an additional three to four minutes. You will know they are done when they turn opaque and the flesh is white. Serve with rice or pasta, crusty bread and salad.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people cut bacon strips into 3 pieces and wrap these around the shrimp, securing it with a toothpick before grilling. The bacon keeps the shrimp moist and gives it a delicious flavor.

References

• Reader's Digest: Tips for Grilling Shrimp

Resources

• Cooks: Shrimp Marinades