Chermoula butterflied shrimps with aioli

Chermoula butterflied shrimps are marinated in a zesty North African blend and grilled to perfection, served with tangy homemade aioli. This dish highlights the succulent flavor of shrimp, enhanced by fresh herbs and spices.

03 Jan 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 90 min

Ingredients:

3 lb shrimps
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/2 cup fresh parsley
2 garlic cloves
1 yolk
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp mustard
1/2 cup olive oil
Chermoula butterflied shrimps with aioli

Chermoula butterflied shrimps with aioli is a delightful and flavorful seafood dish that combines the zestiness of chermoula—a North African marinade made with herbs, garlic, and spices—with the creamy and tangy aioli. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking to add a bit of exotic flair to their meal. The succulent shrimp, marinated and grilled to perfection, paired with a delectable homemade aioli, will surely impress your guests at any gathering.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
1. *Butterfly the shrimps*: To do this, use a sharp knife to slice along the back, stopping short of cutting all the way through. Remove the vein if present.
2. Place the butterflied shrimps in a large bowl.
2. Make the Chermoula Marinade:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tbsp of lemon zest, 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
2. Pour the marinade over the shrimps, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Aioli:
1. In a food processor or a mixing bowl, combine the egg yolk, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, and 2 tsp of mustard.
2. While continuously whisking or running the food processor, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of olive oil. It's important to add the oil gradually so that the mixture emulsifies properly.
3. Once all the oil is incorporated, continue whisking until the aioli thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
4. Cook the Shrimps:
1. Preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, place the marinated shrimps on the grill, butterflied side down. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimps are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve:
1. Arrange the grilled shrimps on a serving platter.
2. Serve with the prepared aioli on the side for dipping.

Chermoula butterflied shrimps with aioli is an exquisite dish that offers a burst of flavors in every bite. The aromatic and tangy chermoula marinade perfectly complements the juiciness of the shrimp, while the creamy aioli adds an extra layer of richness. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also relatively easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy your shrimp with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread to make the meal complete.

Chermoula butterflied shrimps with aioli FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover chermoula butterflied shrimps?

Leftover chermoula butterflied shrimp should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 2 days. To reheat, consider sautéing them briefly to maintain their texture.

How can I tell when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and have a firm texture. For butterflied shrimp, this typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side on a grill at medium-high heat.

Can I substitute the egg yolk in the aioli with something else?

Yes, you can use mayonnaise as a substitute for the egg yolk. Use about 1/4 cup of mayonnaise in place of the yolk to save time without sacrificing creaminess.

What pan size should I use for grilling the shrimp?

For grilling, you do not need a specific pan; a standard grill or a grill pan that can accommodate the shrimp in a single layer is ideal. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are best for butterflying and grilling. Look for fresh, sustainably sourced shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

Tips:

- Ensure the shrimp are fresh for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before starting the recipe.

- Butterflying the shrimp will help them cook evenly and allow the marinade to penetrate deeply, intensifying the flavor.

- Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. For even better results, let them marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator.

- When grilling the shrimp, make sure the grill is hot to achieve a nice sear and to prevent the shrimp from sticking.

- Prepare the aioli in advance and chill it in the refrigerator. This will help the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.

- For an enhanced presentation, garnish the dish with some fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon just before serving.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 170kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 2.83g
Fiber 0.27g
Sugar 0.11g
Fat 33g

More recipes

Tomato and basil pasta

A simple and flavorful tomato and basil pasta recipe.

28 Jan 2026

Vegetable stir fry

Quick vegetable stir fry with broccoli, carrot, and soy sauce.

12 Dec 2025

Steaks with ratatouille

Juicy steaks served with vibrant ratatouille of mixed vegetables.

10 Dec 2025

Asparagus with basil oil

Fresh asparagus drizzled with homemade basil oil, perfect for any meal.

08 Dec 2025

Fast chicken tagine

Quick and aromatic chicken tagine with spices and olives.

11 Feb 2026

Grilled pesto shrimp

Delicious grilled shrimp marinated in homemade pesto.

06 Dec 2025

Fig toast with honey drizzle

Enjoy fig toast with creamy ricotta and honey drizzle for breakfast.

28 Dec 2025

Chicken with wine sauteed mushrooms

Sautéed chicken breasts with wine and mushroom sauce.

31 Jan 2026

Posts