Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs

Introduction

If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and easy to clean up, then look no further than Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs. These foil packets are a convenient and versatile way to cook shrimp along with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend BBQs, or a light, yet satisfying meal, Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs bring together the rich taste of shrimp with the smoky flavors from grilling and the freshness of seasonal produce. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a new way to enjoy shrimp, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

The beauty of Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs lies in their simplicity and the ability to customize them based on your preferences. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned, and the vegetables are roasted to tender perfection, all wrapped up in a neat foil packet that locks in the flavors. This meal is a great option for a healthy dinner as shrimp is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, while the vegetables provide fiber and antioxidants. Plus, the whole meal is cooked together in a foil packet, making for minimal cleanup—ideal for busy days or outdoor gatherings.

In this article, we’ll explore why Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are a must-try meal, provide step-by-step instructions for making them, offer helpful tips and variations, and share how you can customize this recipe to suit different dietary needs. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in your kitchen, Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are a flavorful and convenient option that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this meal a well-balanced and nutritious choice.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer spicy, savory, or tangy, this recipe can easily be customized to suit your taste. You can add different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create your perfect foil pack.
• Minimal Cleanup: Since the entire meal is cooked in a foil packet, cleanup is a breeze. Simply dispose of the foil and you’re done.
• Versatile: While this recipe focuses on shrimp, you can easily substitute other proteins, like chicken or fish, or add more vegetables to suit your preference.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is completely halal, with no pork, bacon, or wine, making it suitable for those who follow halal dietary guidelines.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 15-20 minutes for grilling)
• Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings, with each pack containing shrimp and a combination of vegetables.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving):
  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbs: 20g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 5g

Ingredients

Shrimp and Vegetables:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Shrimp is the star of the dish, offering a lean source of protein with a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky flavors from the grill.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to coat the shrimp and vegetables, ensuring they cook evenly and stay tender.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and brings depth to the seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and color to the shrimp and vegetables.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: A fragrant herb that adds a Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon salt: To taste, enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground, for seasoning.
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced: For bright, citrusy flavor, and the lemon slices also infuse the shrimp with fresh acidity.
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced: Adds a soft, slightly sweet flavor and color to the foil pack.
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color): Bell peppers provide a sweet crunch and color to the dish.
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced: Red onions bring a mild sweetness and tang when cooked.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: A burst of juiciness and color that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped: A fresh, herby garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor to finish off the dish.
• Extra lemon wedges: For serving, adds an extra citrusy brightness when squeezed over the shrimp and vegetables.

Optional Sauce for Serving (optional but recommended):

• 2 tablespoons tahini: Adds a creamy, nutty element that pairs well with the shrimp and vegetables.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: To balance the richness of the tahini and add brightness.
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup: For a slight sweetness to complement the savory flavors.
• Pinch of salt: To taste.
• Water to thin the sauce, if needed.

Suggested Sides:

• Grilled Pita or Flatbread: To soak up the delicious juices from the foil pack.
• Couscous or Quinoa: A light, fluffy grain to serve alongside and add substance to the meal.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce that pairs wonderfully with shrimp and adds a cool contrast to the grilled flavors.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Vegetables

1. Season the Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasoning. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Slice the zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. These vegetables add flavor, color, and texture to the foil packs, balancing the sweetness of the shrimp with their savory freshness.

Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packs

1. Prepare the Foil: Lay out four large sheets of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long each. You’ll be wrapping each foil pack individually, so each sheet should be large enough to hold the shrimp and vegetables comfortably.
2. Add the Vegetables: In the center of each foil sheet, layer the sliced zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Try to spread them out evenly to ensure the vegetables cook at the same rate.
3. Add the Shrimp: Place a portion of the seasoned shrimp on top of the vegetables in each foil pack.
4. Add Lemon Slices: Top each foil pack with a few slices of lemon. The lemon will infuse the shrimp with a fresh, citrusy flavor as it cooks.
5. Seal the Foil Pack: Fold up the sides of the foil to create a packet, making sure it is sealed tightly but leaving some room for steam to circulate inside.

Step 3: Grill the Foil Packs

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a gas grill, simply set it to medium-high. For charcoal grills, allow the coals to burn down until they are covered with a light layer of ash, and the heat is consistent.
2. Place the Foil Packs on the Grill: Carefully place the foil packs on the grill, making sure they’re not directly on the flame. Position them over indirect heat so they cook evenly without burning.
3. Grill for 15-20 Minutes: Grill the foil packs for about 15-20 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the vegetables should be tender but not mushy. You can check one packet by carefully opening it (be careful of the hot steam) and testing the shrimp for doneness. If the shrimp is cooked through, remove the packs from the grill.
4. Optional: Finish with a Quick Sear: For extra char and flavor, open the foil packs during the last 2 minutes of grilling and let the shrimp and vegetables get a quick sear over the grill.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Open the Foil Packs: Carefully open the foil packs, being cautious of the hot steam inside.
2. Garnish: Garnish the shrimp and vegetables with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
3. Serve: Serve the Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs with extra lemon wedges on the side. For a more substantial meal, pair with couscous, quinoa, or pita bread.
4. Optional Sauce: Drizzle with tahini sauce for an added layer of flavor. Simply whisk together tahini, lemon juice, honey, salt, and water until smooth, then drizzle over the shrimp and vegetables.

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs

Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some great serving ideas to elevate your meal:

1. As a Healthy Weeknight Dinner

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and flavorful. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an ideal choice for a stress-free dinner that the whole family will love.

2. Perfect for Grilling Season

Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are a great addition to any BBQ or grilling party. The foil packs make it easy to cook a large quantity of shrimp and vegetables without the hassle of flipping individual pieces. Plus, they’re perfect for outdoor cooking!

3. Pair with a Light Salad

For a lighter meal, serve Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs with a fresh salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette. The crisp, refreshing salad pairs well with the smoky, savory shrimp.

4. Meal Prep-Friendly

These foil packs are great for meal prepping. You can assemble the packs ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and then grill them when you’re ready to eat. It’s a convenient, delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Recipe Variations

While Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are fantastic as written, there are plenty of ways to personalize them to your taste or dietary needs.

1. Add More Vegetables

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. You can add things like asparagus, mushrooms, corn, or even sweet potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you use denser vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots.

2. Spicy Shrimp Foil Packs

For a spicier kick, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning. You can also use jalapeños or spicy bell peppers for added heat.

3. Make it Keto

If you’re following a keto diet, Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are already a great option. Just skip any starchy vegetables like potatoes or corn and focus on non-starchy vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

4. Make it Vegan

For a vegan version, swap the shrimp for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Add the same seasonings and vegetables for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to monitor them carefully while grilling. Overcooking them can make them tough and rubbery.
2. Double Layer the Foil for Durability: If you’re worried about the foil tearing or leaking, you can double layer the foil to ensure it stays intact during grilling.
3. Preheat the Grill: Make sure the grill is properly preheated before you start cooking. This ensures that the shrimp and vegetables cook evenly and get that perfect smoky flavor.
4. Customize the Flavor: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices and seasonings. Add your favorite herbs, try different marinades, or experiment with new spices to create a foil pack that suits your taste.

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Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are a delicious, healthy, and convenient meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or cooking indoors, these foil packets make it easy to prepare a flavorful meal with minimal effort and cleanup. With juicy shrimp, tender vegetables, and a combination of savory, smoky flavors, Grilled Shrimp Foil Packs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Try them today and enjoy a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!