Zesty Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp Foil Packets: Your Ultimate Easy Summer Grilling Recipe
Searching for that perfect dinner solution that’s both effortless and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This incredible Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp recipe is your answer. Cooked conveniently in individual foil packets right on your grill, this dish guarantees moist, succulent shrimp infused with bright citrus and aromatic herbs. The delightful combination of fresh orange and pungent garlic creates a marinade that penetrates every piece of shrimp, making for an unforgettable meal any night of the week.
Grilling has become our summer obsession, and for good reason! The thought of heating up the kitchen with a scorching oven during warmer months is less than appealing. Grilling offers a fantastic alternative, allowing you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without breaking a sweat indoors. It’s truly one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to cook, especially when you discover the magic of foil packet dinners.
The Genius of Foil Packet Dinners: Why You’ll Love Them
Foil packet meals are revolutionary for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. They epitomize low-maintenance cooking, offering an incredible balance of ease, flavor, and minimal cleanup. You can literally grill just about anything in a foil packet – from delicate seafood like shrimp to hearty vegetables and tender chicken. The secret lies in the sealed environment: as the ingredients cook, the liquids inside the packet turn into steam, effectively infusing the main protein and vegetables with intense, concentrated flavors.
This steaming process is what makes our Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp exceptionally moist and flavorful. The marinade doesn’t just coat the shrimp; it deeply penetrates it, ensuring every bite is a burst of zesty goodness. Beyond the flavor, the practical benefits are undeniable. Once dinner is served, simply crumple up the foil and toss it away. Cleanup becomes a breeze, leaving you more time to savor your meal and less time scrubbing dishes. It’s a win-win situation for any home cook!
If you haven’t ventured into the world of foil packet grilling yet, this shrimp recipe is the perfect starting point. The simplicity and incredible results will quickly make you a convert. For those who are already fans, what’s your favorite dish to prepare in a foil packet? Share your ideas in the comments – we’re always looking for new inspiration!
Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp {in foil packets}
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on
- 3/4 – 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1-1/2 tsp. grated orange zest
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme + fresh sprigs
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
Instructions
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In a shallow dish or large Ziploc bag, combine shrimp, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, oil, chopped thyme, salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat all the shrimp evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or for up to 8 hours for a deeper infusion of taste. Do not marinate for more than 8 hours, as the citrus can start to “cook” the shrimp.
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While the shrimp marinates, prepare your foil packets. Cut two or three large, sturdy rectangles of heavy-duty aluminum foil. For extra security against leaks, you can use two layers of regular foil for each packet. Divide the marinated shrimp and any remaining marinade evenly and place it in the center of each foil rectangle.
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To seal the packets, bring the two longer sides of the foil together over the shrimp. Fold them over several times, creating a tight, secure seam lengthwise. This step is crucial for trapping the steam and flavors inside.
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Next, close each of the shorter sides (the ends) one at a time. Roll them up tightly towards the middle, pinching firmly to ensure a complete seal. You want the packets to be fully enclosed, allowing no steam to escape.
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The number of packets you make will depend on the size of your foil sheets and the amount of shrimp you place in each. Aim for packets that aren’t overly stuffed, allowing for even cooking. Typically, 2-3 packets are ideal for two pounds of shrimp.
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Preheat your grill to high heat. Once hot, carefully place the foil packets directly onto the grill grates. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes. The exact cooking time can vary based on the heat intensity of your grill and the volume of shrimp in each packet. The shrimp is cooked when it turns opaque and pink. Remove the foil packets from the grill and exercise caution when opening them, as a burst of hot steam will be released. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Ingredient Spotlight: The Magic Behind the Flavor
Choosing Your Shrimp
For this recipe, we recommend using large shrimp (21-25 count per pound) as they stand up well to grilling and remain juicy. While fresh shrimp are always ideal, high-quality frozen shrimp work wonderfully too. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating. Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on for presentation and ease of eating, but tails off is fine if you prefer. Always check for freshness: shrimp should have a mild, briny smell, not a strong “fishy” odor.
The Zesty Orange Element
The star of our marinade is fresh orange juice and zest. The juice provides a bright, acidic base that tenderizes the shrimp slightly and infuses it with a sweet, tangy flavor. The zest, however, is where the true orange aroma and concentrated citrus oils reside. Don’t skip the zest! It adds a depth of flavor that juice alone cannot achieve. Using fresh oranges makes a noticeable difference compared to bottled juice.
Aromatic Thyme and Garlic
Thyme, with its earthy, slightly floral, and peppery notes, is a perfect complement to the bright orange. Fresh thyme is highly recommended here, as its essential oils are released beautifully when steamed in the foil packet. For the garlic, fresh cloves, minced finely, provide that essential pungent kick that rounds out the marinade. Together, these ingredients create a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that is both invigorating and comforting.
Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper
Good quality olive oil helps to carry the flavors, preventing the shrimp from sticking and adding a touch of richness. Salt enhances all the other flavors, while black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice. Adjust these seasonings to your preference, but remember they are foundational to a well-balanced marinade.
Expert Grilling Tips for Perfect Foil Packets Every Time
While the recipe instructions are straightforward, a few tips can ensure your Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp turns out perfectly:
- Preheat Thoroughly: Always start with a hot grill. This helps to create that instant steam needed in the foil packets and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Resist the urge to cram too much shrimp into one packet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and can also make it harder for the packets to seal properly. Distribute the shrimp and marinade evenly across 2-3 packets.
- Double Foil for Security: If you’re using standard aluminum foil, consider using two layers for each packet, especially for the bottom. This prevents tears and leaks, ensuring all those precious juices and flavors stay locked in.
- Seal Tightly: The key to successful foil packet cooking is a tight seal. Take your time folding and crimping the edges. No gaps means maximum steam and flavor infusion.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly! The 8-10 minute guideline is usually accurate, but exact times can vary based on your grill’s temperature and the size of your shrimp. You’ll know the shrimp is done when it turns opaque and pink throughout. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long.
- Careful Opening: When taking the packets off the grill, remember they are full of hot steam. Use tongs and open them away from your face to avoid burns.
Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal
This Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:
- Rice Pilaf or Couscous: The delicate flavors of the shrimp are beautifully complemented by a fluffy rice pilaf or light couscous, which can also soak up the delicious marinade juices.
- Grilled Vegetables: For an all-grill meal, consider grilling some asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob alongside your shrimp packets. You can even add some chopped vegetables directly into the shrimp foil packets for an all-in-one dish!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, zesty shrimp.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t let any of that incredible orange-thyme sauce go to waste! Serve with some crusty bread to sop up all the flavorful juices from the packets.
- Quinoa: For a healthy, protein-rich grain, serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy quinoa.
For a refreshing beverage pairing, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would be excellent, or for a non-alcoholic option, iced tea with a slice of orange or a sparkling water with a hint of citrus would be perfect.
Variations and Customizations
While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste:
- Other Citrus: Lemon or lime juice and zest can be used in place of orange for a different tangy profile.
- Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for unique aromatic twists.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade if you like a little heat.
- Add Vegetables: For a full meal in one packet, add thinly sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus spears to the foil packets along with the shrimp. They will cook perfectly in the steam and absorb the marinade.
This Orange-Thyme Grilled Shrimp in foil packets is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy easy, healthy, and incredibly flavorful cooking, especially during the warmer months. Its simple preparation and vibrant taste make it a staple for anyone looking to make delicious meals without the fuss. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly understand why this recipe is a favorite!