Grilled Salmon and Shrimp Recipes for Summer BBQs

Are you ready to make your summer BBQs unforgettable with delicious seafood dishes? Imagine the sizzle of grilled seafood on a warm summer evening. The smell of fresh herbs fills the air, and your guests will love every bite.

Grilled salmon and shrimp are a great choice for a summer BBQ. With the right ingredients and amounts, you can create a memorable meal. This article will show you some tasty salmon and shrimp recipes that will wow your guests.

Key Takeaways

• Easy-to-follow grilled salmon and shrimp recipes
• Essential ingredients and quantities for a perfect BBQ
• Tips for preparing seafood for a summer gathering
• Delicious variations of grilled salmon and shrimp dishes
• Ideas for complementing your BBQ with sides and desserts

The Art of Grilling Seafood for Summer Gatherings

Grilling seafood can make your summer gatherings unforgettable. It’s more than just throwing fish on the grill. It’s about creating a memorable culinary experience for your guests. With the right techniques and equipment, you can take your summer BBQs to new heights.

Why Salmon and Shrimp Are Perfect for BBQs

Salmon and shrimp are top picks for BBQs. They’re delicious and easy to grill. Salmon has a rich flavor that goes well with many seasonings. Shrimp cooks fast and can be marinated in many flavors. Both are flexible and can be prepared in many ways to please any palate.

Essential Grilling Equipment for Seafood

To grill seafood well, you need the right tools. Here are the must-haves:

• A grill with adjustable heat controls
• A fish basket or grill mat to prevent sticking
• Tongs or a spatula for flipping
• A meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperatures

Knowing why salmon and shrimp are great for BBQs and having the right tools will help you create amazing seafood dishes for your summer gatherings.

Preparing Your Grill for Seafood Success

To get perfectly grilled seafood, you need to prepare your grill right. This means knowing how to control temperature and distribute heat.

Temperature Control Techniques

When grilling seafood like salmon and shrimp, controlling temperature is key. Heat your grill to 350°F to 400°F, which is best for most seafood. A thermometer helps you keep the temperature just right, so your seafood cooks evenly.

Direct vs. Indirect Heat Methods

It’s important to know the difference between direct and indirect heat. Direct heat is great for searing shrimp and getting those nice grill marks. Indirect heat is better for cooking salmon fillets through without burning the outside. Using both methods can help you cook your seafood perfectly.

Mastering temperature control and knowing when to use direct versus indirect heat will help you grill seafood that wows your guests. Whether you’re making a simple salmon shrimp sauce or a more complex dish, the secret to success is in the preparation and technique.

Food Safety Tips for Handling Seafood

Seafood, like shrimp and salmon in shrimp and salmon pasta dishes, needs careful handling. This ensures it’s safe to eat. When preparing seafood for summer BBQs, following food safety guidelines is key. It helps prevent foodborne illnesses.

Proper Storage and Thawing

Storing seafood correctly is crucial for its quality and safety. Always keep it refrigerated at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). When thawing frozen seafood, do it in the fridge, in cold water, or in the microwave. Never thaw it at room temperature.

Always check the seafood for any signs of spoilage before consumption. Look for off smells or a slimy texture.

Cross-Contamination Prevention

Preventing cross-contamination is vital when handling seafood. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for seafood. This avoids transferring bacteria to other foods.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling seafood. Also, make sure all surfaces and equipment that come into contact with seafood are properly cleaned and sanitized.

Classic Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

Looking for a simple yet impressive dish for your next BBQ? Try classic grilled salmon with lemon and herbs. It’s a mix of salmon’s rich flavor, lemon’s brightness, and herbs’ freshness. This dish is both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients and Quantities

To make this classic grilled salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 2 lemons, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

Start by prepping your ingredients. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Mix lemon juice and olive oil in a small bowl.

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish. Brush the lemon-olive oil mixture over both sides. Sprinkle rosemary and thyme over the salmon.

Grilling Technique and Timing

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down if they have skin. Close the grill lid and cook for 4-6 minutes per side.

During the last minute, place a slice of lemon on top of each fillet. Remove the salmon from the grill and serve immediately.

Grilling salmon to perfection requires attention to timing. For a 1-inch thick fillet, grill for 4-6 minutes per side. Adjust the time based on the thickness of your fillets and the heat of your grill.

Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Get ready to spice up your summer BBQs with our Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp Skewers recipe. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals. Succulent shrimp, tangy Cajun seasoning, and a hint of spice will make your taste buds dance.

Ingredients and Quantities

To make these delicious skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Marinating Process

In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Grilling Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

These Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a fantastic addition to any summer BBQ or gathering. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your guests.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Elevate your summer grilling with honey garlic glazed salmon. It’s a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is a great addition to your salmon and shrimp recipes collection, offering a unique twist on traditional grilled salmon.

Ingredients and Quantities

To make honey garlic glazed salmon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Glaze

Preparing the honey garlic glaze is straightforward. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grilling Method

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with the honey garlic glaze, coating them evenly. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down if they have skin. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Brush with additional glaze during the last minute of grilling for an extra layer of flavor.

Essential Salmon and Shrimp Recipes for Your Summer BBQ

Make your summer BBQ unforgettable with these easy-to-make grilled salmon and shrimp recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these dishes are sure to impress your guests.

Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp

Garlic butter grilled shrimp is a classic summer BBQ favorite. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients and Quantities

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Preparation and Grilling Process

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Thread the shrimp onto skewers if desired. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon

Teriyaki glazed salmon is a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for summer BBQs. The teriyaki sauce adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the salmon.

Ingredients and Quantities

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

Preparation and Cooking Method

In a small saucepan, combine the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Brush the glaze onto the salmon fillets during the last few minutes of grilling. Grill the salmon over medium heat for 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Foil Packet Grilling Techniques

Foil packet grilling is a great way to cook seafood. It keeps salmon and shrimp moist and flavorful. This method is both versatile and delicious.

Mediterranean Salmon and Shrimp Packets

Try making Mediterranean salmon and shrimp packets. They’re filled with herbs and spices. This dish is not only tasty but also looks great.

Ingredients and Quantities

Here’s what you need for Mediterranean salmon and shrimp packets:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 lemon slices

Assembly and Grilling Instructions

Start by placing a salmon fillet in the center of a foil sheet. Add shrimp around it and drizzle with olive oil. Season with garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Fold the foil to seal the packet.

Grill the packets over medium heat for 10-12 minutes. Wait until the salmon is cooked and the shrimp are pink.

Lemon Butter Herb Foil Packets

Lemon butter herb foil packets offer a tangy and rich flavor. They mix lemon’s brightness with butter’s richness and herbs’ freshness.

Ingredients and Quantities

Here’s what you need for lemon butter herb foil packets:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation and Cooking Method

Mix softened butter with lemon juice, parsley, and garlic. Place a salmon fillet in each foil packet. Top with the lemon butter mixture and season with salt and pepper.

Seal the packets and grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes. Wait until the salmon is cooked through.

Grilled Salmon and Shrimp Kabobs

Grilled salmon and shrimp kabobs are a great choice for your summer BBQ. They’re easy to make and taste amazing. You can change up the ingredients to please everyone’s taste.

Ingredients and Quantities

Here’s what you need for grilled salmon and shrimp kabobs:

• 1 pound of salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

You can also add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

Preparation Tips

To start, thread salmon and shrimp onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.

Grilling Technique

Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill the kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning them now and then. The salmon should be cooked through, and the shrimp should be pink and slightly charred. Serve the kabobs hot, with lemon wedges and parsley on top. This dish is perfect for a summer BBQ, adding a New Orleans twist with spicy or Cajun flavors.

Cedar Plank Salmon with Grilled Shrimp Topping

Elevate your summer BBQ with a show-stopping cedar plank salmon recipe topped with grilled shrimp. This dish combines the rich flavors of salmon and shrimp, making it perfect for your next outdoor gathering.

Ingredients and Quantities

To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cedar planks, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Cedar Plank

Soaking the cedar planks in water is crucial to prevent them from catching fire on the grill. Ensure they are submerged for at least 30 minutes. You can also add some flavor to the water by including lemon slices or herbs.

Cooking Method and Assembly

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the soaked cedar planks on the grill and let them heat up for a few minutes. Then, place the salmon fillets on the planks, skin side down if they have skin. Close the grill lid and cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.

While the salmon cooks, grill the shrimp. Thread them onto skewers and brush with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and cooked through. Serve the grilled shrimp on top of the cedar plank salmon.

Pairing Sides and Drinks with Your Grilled Seafood

A great summer BBQ is all about finding the right balance. This includes matching your grilled seafood with perfect sides and drinks. When you serve salmon and shrimp recipes, you want to add to their taste without taking over.

Complementary Side Dishes

The right sides can really bring out the flavors of your grilled seafood. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add a smoky taste and a nice crunch.
• Corn on the cob, smothered in butter and herbs, is a tasty choice.
• A fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing is a great option.
• Garlic bread or grilled flatbread offer a cozy side dish.

These sides add variety in texture and taste, making them perfect with shrimp & salmon recipes.

Beverage Recommendations

The right drink can make your grilled seafood even better. Here are some drink suggestions:

• Refreshing cocktails like mojitos or spritzes go well with seafood’s light flavors.
• Iced tea or flavored sparkling water are good choices if you don’t want alcohol.
• Lemonade with herbs like mint or basil is a cool summer drink.

Pairing your salmon and shrimp recipes with these sides and drinks will make your summer BBQ a hit.

Conclusion: Mastering Seafood on the Grill

You now have the tools to make delicious grilled salmon and shrimp for your summer BBQs. By mastering the techniques in this article, you’ll impress your guests with tasty seafood.

To get perfectly grilled salmon, balance flavors with a good sauce. For shrimp, try different marinades and grilling ways to find your style.

As you keep practicing and trying new things, you’ll get better at grilling. Don’t be shy to try new recipes and flavors, like grilled salmon with lemon sauce or shrimp with Cajun seasoning.

With these grilling tips and recipe ideas, you’re on your way to being a seafood grilling pro. So, fire up your grill and enjoy the summer with perfectly grilled salmon and shrimp.