Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp

Name: Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined- tails on is fine for a nice presentation; 1/4 cup fresh lemongrass stalks, minced (or use paste); 1 shallot, grated or minced; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 2 teaspoons coconut sugar or brown sugar; 2 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (option but for a kick)

Tender mouthwatering Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp is easy and versatile. Serve with coconut rice, in lettuce wraps, or in a rice noodle bowl. Gluten-free.

coconut rice bowl with grilled lemongrass shrimp skewers, garnished with fresh herbs and chive blossoms.

This Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp recipe is bathed in the most flavorful marinade, grilled on skewers, and served over coconut rice. Its rich, aromatic flavor, enhanced by lemongrass and ginger, makes it a versatile protein. Depending on your mood or the occasion, you can transform this dish in numerous ways. While good as is for an appetizer, you could also make lettuce wraps or serve over fluffy Coconut Rice.

Why You’ll Love This

Bursting with flavor! Rich and aromatic with lemongrass and ginger.
So versatile. Serve with rice, lettuce wraps, Asian tacos, or rice noodles, or as is- get creative!
Healthy! A light and clean protein to enhance any dish!

Lemongrass shrimp Ingredients

bowl of raw shrimp next to ingredients like fresh ginger, lemongrass, shallot, garlic powder, fish sauce, and coconut sugar.

Shrimp: Use large, extra large, or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Leave the tails on for nice presentation! Opt for wild shrimp for the healthiest option.
Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass stalks, frozen chopped lemongrass or lemongrass paste work here for mild citrus, sweet, and tangy flavor.
Shallot and ginger: Grated or minced, to add an aromatic, distinct taste that pairs well with lemongrass.
Fish sauce: Adds a touch of briny flavor with hints of sweet, caramel aromas.
Coconut sugar: Or substitute brown sugar to infuse the shrimp with a bit of sweetness.
Avocado oil: A high heat oil to help the shrimp become tender and perfectly charred.
Garlic powder: A bit of extra pungent, aromatic flavor to coat the shrimp.
Chili garlic sauce: Optional, but great if you wish to add a kick to the dish! You can also try a little chili paste if you prefer.
Coconut Rice: Creamy and fluffy with cool, fresh flavor. The perfect base to turn this recipe into a meal.
Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, mint, or Thai basil leaves, plus a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

See recipe card below for the full ingredient list and instructions.

How to Make Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp

If you are using bamboo skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes!

Step 1: Marinate. Mix lemongrass, shallot, fish sauce, sugar, oil, ginger, and garlic powder together in a small bowl. Toss the mixture with shrimp in a large bowl and let marinate for 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

lemongrass marinade in small bowl next to raw shrimp.

raw shrimp marinating in lemongrass marinade in bowl.

Step 2: Prep the grill. Preheat the grill to high heat—let it get hot! Skewer the shrimp. If using extra large or jumbo shrimp, they may be large enough to place on the grates without falling through. Or you can use a grill basket.

raw, marinated lemongrass shrimp on skewers on plate.

Step 3: Grill the shrimp. If your grill runs hot, reduce to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your grill. You know they are done when they turn opaque and curl into a C shape. If forming a circle, they are overcooked.

grilled lemongrass shrimp on skewer with fresh herbs and chive blossom garnish.

Serving Ideas

Place skewers on a bed of creamy, fluffy Coconut Rice.
Serve in lettuce wraps with a drizzle of Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese Dipping Sauce).
Make them into Asian-inspired tacos!
Toss with rice noodles for a flavorful noodle bowl!
For additional garnishes, try sriracha or chile or serrano peppers for a little extra heat, and serve with fresh chopped (or pickled) cucumbers or carrots.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the shrimp for?

While you need to marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes, if you have time to marinate them for up to 2 hours the flavor will be even bolder and more delicious!

How do I keep shrimp moist on the grill?

If using skewers, it helps to squeeze them together so there is less surface area on the grill. This helps them stay moist as opposed to drying out. Remove the shrimp from the grill as soon as they form a C shape so they don’t overcook.

Can I use a grill pan if I don’t have a grill?

Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can make this in a grill pan or sauté pan instead. Heat over medium-high, searing one side until golden brown before flipping. Don’t fiddle with them!

How long does Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp keep for?

Leftover grilled shrimp will keep for 2 days in a sealed airtight container in the fridge. Drop into soup just before serving, tuck into an omelette, or add to a salad.

bowl with coconut rice, cucumbers, and grilled lemongrass shrimp skewers.

Hope you enjoy this Grilled Lemongrass Shrimp recipe! Let us know what you think in the comments!

~Tonia

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