How to Grill Perfect Traeger Shrimp

Grilling shrimp is a delightful way to add a delicious touch to any meal, whether it's an appetizer or a main dish for special occasions and outdoor gatherings. Shrimp are versatile, quick to cook, and readily available. Here's a detailed guide on how to grill shrimp perfectly.

Preparing the Shrimp

Seasoning or Marinating:

• Marinate: Marinate your shrimp for at least 30 minutes, and up to eight hours. Be cautious with citrus-based marinades as they can make shrimp mushy if left for more than two hours.
• Seasoning: Quickly toss shrimp in seasoning just before grilling if you prefer.

Grilling Tips

Grilling Time:

• Preheat your grill to 350°F.
• Grill shrimp for 5-7 minutes total, flipping them halfway through. They are done when they turn opaque and pink.

With or Without Shells:

• Grilling with shells can keep shrimp tender.
• If grilling without shells, keep a close eye to prevent overcooking.

Avoiding Dryness:

• Marinate and grill at a modest temperature of 350°F for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Avoid high heat flash-grilling to prevent drying out the shrimp.

Thawing Frozen Shrimp

• Always thaw frozen shrimp before grilling to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning.
• Thaw shrimp in a sealed plastic bag submerged in water for 10-20 minutes.
• Pat dry with paper towels before seasoning and grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp pairs well with various dishes:

• Tacos
• Pasta
• Fried rice
• Grain and bean salads
• Sandwiches
• Pad Thai

Recipe Inspirations

1. Grilled Shrimp Cocktail:

   • Ingredients: Shrimp, olive oil, Old Bay Seasoning, ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, salt, pepper, hot sauce, Italian parsley.
   • Method: Grill shrimp at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, then serve with homemade cocktail sauce.

2. Cajun Smoked Shrimp:

   • Ingredients: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, shrimp.
   • Method: Marinate shrimp for at least 4 hours, then grill at 450°F for 3-4 minutes per side.

3. Chinese Jumbo Shrimp:

   • Ingredients: Soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, sweet sherry, olive oil, garlic, ginger, Traeger Asian BBQ Rub.
   • Method: Marinate and grill shrimp to capture umami flavors.

4. Spicy Shrimp Skewers:

   • Ingredients: Thai chiles, garlic, Napa Valley Rub, sugar, white vinegar, olive oil.
   • Method: Grill shrimp with a spicy Thai marinade.

5. Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp:

   • Ingredients: Shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, bacon.
   • Method: Wrap shrimp in bacon and grill for a savory treat.

Final Thoughts

Grilling shrimp is both an art and a science. With these tips and recipes, you can enjoy perfectly grilled shrimp that are tender, flavorful, and a hit at any gathering. Experiment with different marinades, seasonings, and serving styles to find your favorite combinations.