A summery treat with the perfect wine accompaniment
Delicately grilled prawns marinated in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic and fine olive oil are a real delicacy. The gentle flavour of the prawns harmonises perfectly with the light freshness of the citrus notes, while the roasted aromas from the grill add a pleasant depth. But which wine goes best with this Mediterranean dish? A fresh, herb-accented Verdejo from Rueda, with its fine acidity, subtle herbal notes and mineral freshness, brings the perfect balance to the prawns and wonderfully enhances their delicate flavour.
Which wines go best with this meal?
Prawns have a delicate, slightly sweet flavour, which is given a pleasant freshness and spiciness with the lemon and garlic marinade. The ideal wine should have enough acidity and freshness to support the lightness of the dish, but also fine herbal notes and mineral hints to emphasise the sea flavours.
1. verdejo from Rueda (main recommendation)
➡ Why? A classic Verdejo from Rueda impresses with flavours of citrus fruits, fresh herbs and a fine minerality. The crisp acidity and light flavour complement the prawns perfectly and ensure a harmonious interplay with the marinade. ✔ Recommended region: Rueda, Spain
2. albariño from Rías Baixas (Spain)
➡ Why? Albariño offers an exciting blend of salty sea breeze, crisp acidity and ripe citrus notes, which combine wonderfully with the light smoky flavour of the grilled prawns. ✔ Recommended region: Rías Baixas, Spain
3. sauvignon blanc from the Loire (France)
➡ Why? With its grassy freshness, subtle citrus and herbal aromas and elegant minerality, Sauvignon Blanc brings an interesting balance to the lemon and garlic marinade and the grilled flavours of the prawns. ✔ Recommended region: Loire, France
The recipe:
Grilled prawns with lemon and garlic marinade
Cooking utensils
- 1 Grill or grill pan
- 1 Small bowl for the marinade
- 1 Kitchen brush to coat the prawns
- 1 Tongs or barbecue skewers
Ingredients
For the shrimps:
- 12 large shrimps Raw, with or without peel
- 2 Tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- Juice and zest of 1 organic lemon
- 2 Garlic cloves finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes Optional for a slight spiciness
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or coriander chopped
For the garnish (optional):
- Lemon wedges to serve
- Fresh baguette or toasted bread
Preparation
Prepare the marinade:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped garlic, salt, pepper and chili flakes.
- Turn the prawns in the marinade and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.
Grill the prawns:
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Place the prawns directly on the grill or put them on skewers.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and lightly caramelized.
Serve:
- Place the prawns on a plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley or coriander.
- Serve with lemon wedges and drizzle with olive oil to taste.
Recommended side dishes
- Fresh baguette or toasted bread with olive oil
- A light rocket salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled vegetables such as zucchinis, eggplants or peppers
