Shrimp Skewers – Marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs, the shrimp are grilled to perfection—juicy, smoky, and irresistibly charred, served as an appetizer or paired with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Prepping these shrimp skewers takes less than 10 minutes!
- Healthy and light: Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories, making this a guilt-free dish.
- Packed with flavor: The marinade bursts with tangy lemon and aromatic garlic.
- Perfect for entertaining: These skewers are as elegant as they are delicious, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Shrimp Skewers
Don’t over-marinate: Shrimp only need a short time in the marinade. Longer than 30 minutes can result in a mushy texture due to the acidity in the lemon juice.
Soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Use large shrimp: Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) are best for grilling, as they stay juicy and are less likely to overcook.
Cook shrimp quickly: Keep a close eye on the grill. Shrimp cook fast—2 to 3 minutes per side is all they need!
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb Lovers’ Version: Swap out parsley for fresh basil, cilantro, or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute the lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a slightly sweeter or tangier twist.
- Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers: Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet-savory combination that pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp.
How to Serve Shrimp Skewers
These skewers are versatile and can be served in several delicious ways:
- As a main dish: Pair the shrimp with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad.
- In tacos: Add the grilled shrimp to warm tortillas with a fresh slaw and avocado for easy shrimp tacos.
- As an appetizer: Serve the skewers at a party or BBQ with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or lemon butter.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Skewers
If you have leftovers (which is rare because these shrimp disappear fast!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerating: Store the grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving shrimp, as it can make them rubbery.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to fully thaw them before marinating. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Ensure your grill grates are clean, and oil them lightly before placing the shrimp skewers on. You can also brush the shrimp with a little extra oil before grilling.
Can I cook shrimp skewers in the oven instead of on the grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are cooked through.
Can I substitute chicken for shrimp in this recipe?
Yes, you can! However, chicken will need to marinate longer (at least 2 hours) and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.
Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp Skewers - Marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs, the shrimp are grilled to perfection—juicy, smoky, and irresistibly charred, served as an appetizer or paired with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Chopped parsley for serving
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder to make the marinade.
- Add the shrimp, tossing them gently to coat evenly in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor).
- Thread 4-6 shrimp onto soaked skewers and set them aside on a plate.
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon slices for a bright, fresh finish.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 230Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 239mgSodium 1341mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 26g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
These Shrimp Skewers are a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a laid-back family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The zesty lemon and garlic marinade elevate the flavor of shrimp to new heights, making this recipe a must-try for seafood lovers. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and serving ideas to make it your own!
Check my other shrimp recipes:
