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Grilled Garlic-and-Black-Pepper Prawns

This vibrant recipe for grilled garlic and black pepper prawns is a fantastic example of how simple, fresh ingredients can create a bold and aromatic meal. The combination of pungent garlic, citrusy lime, and the heat from coarsely ground pepper provides a punchy marinade that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shellfish. By using double skewers, the prawns are much easier to handle on the heat, ensuring you achieve that desirable charred finish without any fuss.

As a high-protein dish, these prawns are an excellent choice for a light summer lunch or a healthy midweek dinner. They are incredibly quick to prepare and cook in under five minutes, making them ideal for outdoor entertaining or a fast evening meal. For the best results, serve them alongside warm flatbreads or a crisp seasonal salad, with plenty of extra lime wedges for squeezing over just before eating.

Ingredients for Grilled Garlic-and-Black-Pepper Prawns

  • 1 fresh red chilli (such as Fresno), seeds removed, finely grated

  • 3 garlic cloves, finely grated

  • 1 tablespoon coarsely ground pepper

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for grill

  • 450g large prawns, peeled, deveined

  • Kosher salt

  • Lime wedges and Kashmiri chilli powder or paprika (for serving)

  • Four 8-inch-long metal skewers or bamboo skewers soaked 30 minutes in water

How to make Grilled Garlic-and-Black-Pepper Prawns

Whisk chilli, garlic, pepper, lime juice, and 2 tablespoons oil in a large bowl. Add prawns and toss to coat; season with salt. Thread prawns onto sets of 2 skewers.

Prepare a grill for medium-high heat; clean grates well, then oil. Grill prawns, turning once, until cooked through and lightly charred, about 5 minutes total. Serve with lime wedges dipped in chilli powder.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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