Whole Grilled Shrimp (Gamberoni alla Griglia)

Written By JOSEPH SORCE

Simple Ingredients. Hot Fire. Coastal Italian Flavor.

Perfect for summer gatherings, this grilled shrimp starter delivers bright citrus, gentle smoke, and the kind of relaxed elegance that belongs at a table shared with family and friends.

Serves: 6–8 as an antipasto or starter
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 20–30 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 to 2½ pounds large whole shrimp or prawns, shell-on (heads on preferred)

  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

  • Extra olive oil for finishing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse shrimp and pat dry thoroughly.

Leave shells intact. If desired, use kitchen shears or a small knife to cut lightly along the back of each shrimp and remove the vein while keeping the shell attached.

Heads may remain on for a more traditional Italian presentation.

2. Make the Marinade

In a large bowl combine:

  • Olive oil

  • Garlic

  • Lemon zest

  • Lemon juice

  • Parsley

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Red pepper flakes (if using)

Whisk until fully combined.

3. Marinate

Add shrimp to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.

Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Do not marinate substantially longer, as the lemon juice can begin to affect texture.

4. Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high to high heat (450–500°F).

Clean and lightly oil grill grates.

Place shrimp directly over heat.

Cook:

  • 2–3 minutes first side

  • 1–2 minutes second side

Shrimp should become opaque with light char marks while remaining tender.

Avoid overcooking.

5. Finish

Transfer immediately to a serving platter.

Finish with:

  • Fresh lemon squeeze

  • Small drizzle excellent olive oil

  • Additional parsley

Serve immediately.

How to Serve

For a traditional coastal Italian approach:

  • Warm grilled Italian bread for soaking up juices

  • Lemon wedges alongside

  • Simple fennel salad with olive oil and citrus

  • Chilled white wine

  • Arrange family-style on a large serving platter for guests to peel and enjoy together

The shells create a slower meal — one that encourages conversation, lingering, and gathering around the table.

JOSEPH SORCE
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