Few things capture the soul of Sicilian seaside cooking like freshly grilled prawns (gamberoni arrostiti). Simple, honest and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, this dish is a summer favorite on the island’s coasts — from rustic seaside trattorias to backyard barbecues with family. The secret? Quality ingredients, hot coals and a bright marinade of lemon and olive oil that lets the prawns shine. Whether you’re working with a charcoal grill or a simple skillet (although, of course, the end result will not be the same!), this traditional recipe will bring the taste of Sicily to your table.
Grilled Prawns (Gamberoni Arrostiti)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large prawns, shell-on
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt and black pepper.
- Marinate the prawns: Toss the prawns in the mixture, coating them well.
- Grill over charcoal: Place the prawns on a hot charcoal grill and cook for a few minutes on each side, until pink, aromatic and lightly charred.
- Optional step: Once grilled, dip the prawns back into the marinade before serving for extra flavor.
- If using a pan: Heat a dry nonstick skillet until hot. Cook the prawns without marinade, turning frequently to mimic grilled flavor. Serve the marinade on the side. Be careful not to overcook them: the meat should remain tender and moist.
Grandma & Aunties’ Kitchen Wisdom:
«prawns cook fast: remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and slightly curled to keep them juicy and tender»
