Grilled Shrimp and Filet Mignon
Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures
I absolutely love combining succulent shrimp with a tender filet mignon for a truly indulgent dining experience. The contrasting flavors of the ocean and the richness of the steak create a delightful balance that leaves everyone craving more. Grilling them together allows the juices to meld, enhancing both textures and tastes. Whether it's for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this dish never fails to impress. Serve it with a side of garlic butter and fresh herbs for an unforgettable meal that you'll want to recreate over and over again.
When I first attempted to grill shrimp and filet mignon together, I was hesitant about how the flavors would interact. After experimenting with different marinades, I discovered that a blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs beautifully complements both proteins. This method eliminates the need for complicated sauces, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Trust me, the simplicity makes it easier yet luxurious.
During my last dinner party, my guests were raving about the fragrant aroma drifting from the grill. I recommend letting both the shrimp and steak marinate for at least 30 minutes—this not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The best part? The grilling process ensures a smoky char that takes the dish to the next level!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly charred shrimp with subtle sweetness
- Juicy filet mignon that's melt-in-your-mouth tender
- Ideal combination for a romantic dinner or a festive gathering
Understanding Shrimp Selection
When choosing shrimp for this recipe, opt for large, fresh shrimp, preferably wild-caught for the best flavor. Look for shrimp that have a firm texture and a slight sheen; avoid any that appear mushy or have a strong fishy smell. If you only have frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them slowly in the refrigerator for a few hours or under cold running water just before marinating. This helps to maintain their firm consistency and prevents them from becoming rubbery during grilling.
The marinating process is crucial not just for flavor but for the perfect cooking experience. By allowing the shrimp to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, they absorb the garlic and lemon notes, which complement their natural sweetness. Do not exceed an hour in the marinade, as the acid in lemon juice can lead to a mushy texture. If you prefer a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Mastering Filet Mignon Cooking
Filet mignon is known for its tenderness, but the preparation plays a key role in ensuring its juiciness. By seasoning the steak with salt and pepper and letting it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes, you not only enhance the flavor but also promote more even cooking. This brief resting period allows the proteins to relax, leading to a more tender bite. Always use high-quality steak for this recipe, as the flavor of the meat shines through when simply seasoned.
For the perfect steak doneness, it’s helpful to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Cooking times can vary, but as a rule of thumb, grill the filet mignon for approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on the steak's edges; they should turn a beautiful golden-brown as they grill, signaling that the crust is developing for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Shrimp
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filet Mignon
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Marinade for Shrimp
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and let marinate for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Steaks
Season filet mignon with salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.
Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high temperature, ensuring it's well-greased to avoid sticking.
Grill the Shrimp
Place shrimp on skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and slightly charred.
Grill the Filet Mignon
Cook filet mignon for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time to your preferred doneness.
Add Butter and Rosemary
In the last minute of cooking, add butter and rosemary on top of the steaks, allowing it to melt into the meat.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate the shrimp and filet mignon together, and drizzle with any melted butter and juices from the grill.
Tips
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try using a citrus herb marinade for the shrimp. Allowing your steak to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps maintain its juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience with grilled shrimp and filet mignon, consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the meat. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette would offer a refreshing contrast to the dish. Additionally, grilled asparagus or zucchini drizzled with olive oil and lemon zest can enhance both flavor and presentation on the plate.
For added indulgence, whip up a side of garlic butter to accompany the dish. Melt unsalted butter with minced garlic and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and serve it warm in a small bowl. This rich, garlicky sauce can be drizzled over the shrimp and steak to enhance their natural flavors, and it also serves as a delightful dip for the grilled components.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, it's important to store them properly to maintain freshness. Wrap any uneaten shrimp and filet mignon tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate right away, and aim to consume leftovers within 2 days for the best quality. Avoid reheating them more than once, as this can further compromise texture and flavor.
When reheating, use low heat to gently warm the steak and shrimp. For the filet mignon, place it in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. For shrimp, you can briefly pan-sear them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Be cautious not to overcook either protein during reheating, as they can quickly become dry.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them and pat dry before marinating.
→ What if I don’t have a grill?
You can also cook both the shrimp and filet mignon in a grill pan on the stovetop.
→ How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer; 130°F is perfect for medium-rare.
→ What's a good side dish?
Roasted vegetables or a light salad pair excellently with this dish.
Grilled Shrimp and Filet Mignon
I absolutely love combining succulent shrimp with a tender filet mignon for a truly indulgent dining experience. The contrasting flavors of the ocean and the richness of the steak create a delightful balance that leaves everyone craving more. Grilling them together allows the juices to meld, enhancing both textures and tastes. Whether it's for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this dish never fails to impress. Serve it with a side of garlic butter and fresh herbs for an unforgettable meal that you'll want to recreate over and over again.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Global Taste Adventures
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Grilled Shrimp
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filet Mignon
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and let marinate for 30 minutes.
Season filet mignon with salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.
Heat your grill to medium-high temperature, ensuring it's well-greased to avoid sticking.
Place shrimp on skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and slightly charred.
Cook filet mignon for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time to your preferred doneness.
In the last minute of cooking, add butter and rosemary on top of the steaks, allowing it to melt into the meat.
Plate the shrimp and filet mignon together, and drizzle with any melted butter and juices from the grill.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try using a citrus herb marinade for the shrimp. Allowing your steak to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps maintain its juiciness.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 43g