grilled prawns for new years eve dinner

Grilled prawns for a New Year’s Eve celebration

As we bid farewell to the year in the beautiful Algarve, known for its expert grilling culture and fresh seafood, what better way to celebrate than with a dish that combines both? Grilled prawns are the perfect centrepiece for your New Year’s Eve barbecue. They’re smoky, juicy, and deliciously healthy, offering a memorable flavour to kick off the new year. Here’s our easy recipe to help you prepare them to perfection!

Ingredients

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of large, fresh prawns (shells on, deveined)
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For serving:

  • Garlic-lemon butter sauce: Melted butter mixed with minced garlic, lemon zest, and parsley.
  • Spicy Piri-Piri sauce: A fiery favourite in the Algarve, made with chilli peppers, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.
  • Grilled lemon halves for squeezing over the prawns.

Directions:

  1. Prepare the prawns:
    Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat them dry. Mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the prawns and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for 20–30 minutes to absorb the flavours.
  2. Heat the grill:
    Preheat your barbecue to medium-high heat—lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  3. Grill the prawns:
    Place the prawns on the grill in a single layer. Cook 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become rubbery.
  4. Serve:
    Arrange the grilled prawns on a platter with grilled lemon halves. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with small bowls of garlic-lemon butter sauce and spicy piri-piri sauce for dipping.

Why grilled prawns are so delicious and healthy

Grilled prawns are a flavour-packed delight, thanks to their natural sweetness and the smoky char from the barbecue. The shells help lock in the juices, making every bite tender and succulent. Nutritionally, prawns are a fantastic source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like B12 and selenium, making them a wholesome option for your New Year’s Eve feast.

grilled prwans and grilled shrimps
Make sure you have all your grilling tools, like these Napoleon tongs!

How to use a grill basket for prawns and fish

Using a grill basket is a game-changer when grilling prawns, shrimp, or delicate seafood like fish fillets. This handy tool prevents smaller pieces from slipping through the grill grates while ensuring even cooking. Place your seasoned prawns in the basket and set it directly on the grill. Flip the basket halfway through cooking to get that signature char on both sides without the risk of sticking. Grill baskets are also ideal for grilling fish, especially flaky varieties like cod, sole, or salmon, making them easier to handle without breaking apart.

What other seafood to grill with prawns

The combination of various seafood creates a luxurious spread that will impress. Make your New Year’s Eve barbecue a seafood feast by adding other sea treasures to the grill. Here are some options to pair with your prawns:

  • Scallops: Their sweet, tender texture becomes irresistible with a light sear on the grill. Brush with garlic butter for added flavour.
  • Squis or calamari: Marinate calamari rings or tubes in olive oil, lemon, and herbs, and grill them briefly for a smoky, tender treat.
  • Mussels or clams: Place them directly on the grill or in a foil packet with white wine, garlic, and parsley. The heat will open the shells and infuse them with smoky goodness.
  • Lobster tails: Split them in half, brush with garlic butter, and grill until the flesh is opaque and slightly charred.
shrimps on a skewer
If you grill shrimps instead of prawns, secure them on skewers before grilling them to get a perfect juicy result.

Perfect side dishes for grilled prawns

Round out your seafood barbecue with these delightful sides:

  1. Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, lettuce, and corn on the cob complement the smokiness of the prawns.
  2. Garlic butter rice: A fragrant side that soaks up the juices from the prawns.
  3. Mediterranean salad: Crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta tossed with a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
  4. Potato wedges: Grilled or roasted, seasoned with paprika and rosemary, add a hearty touch.
  5. Fresh bread: Serve warm crusty bread or garlic baguette to mop up sauces and juices.

This New Year’s Eve, turn your barbecue into a celebration of flavours, textures, and coastal charm that only the Algarve can inspire! Let the Algarve’s grilling expertise inspire your celebration and make this New Year’s Eve unforgettable!

Check our store in the Algarve for discounts and free assembly! Be sure to visit our shop and showroom in Almancil, Algarve.

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