π€πΏ Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp Skewers π₯π
Juicy Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp Skewers are marinated in garlic, fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil, then grilled until lightly charred and bursting with flavor. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a light dinner, or served alongside rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
6
Prep Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Marinate: 20β30 minutes
- Cook: 6β8 minutes
- Total: About 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1Β½ lbs (680 g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on if desired)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Garlic Herb Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Β½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Β½ teaspoon salt
- ΒΌ teaspoon black pepper
- ΒΌ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Melted garlic butter (optional)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Shrimp
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20β30 minutes.
Tip: Avoid marinating shrimp for more than 30 minutes, as the lemon juice can start to change the texture.
2. Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.
- Thread 4β5 shrimp onto each skewer.
3. Grill
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400β450Β°F / 200β230Β°C).
- Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Grill the skewers for 2β3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and lightly charred.
4. Finish and Serve
- Brush with melted garlic butter, if desired.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
- π Cilantro-lime rice
- π₯ Greek or Caesar salad
- π₯ Roasted baby potatoes
- π₯ Crusty garlic bread
- π Buttered angel hair pasta
- π₯¦ Grilled asparagus or zucchini
Variations
π§ Garlic Butter Shrimp
Brush generously with garlic butter immediately after grilling.
πΆ Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Replace the Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy kick.
π Shrimp & Pineapple Kabobs
Alternate shrimp with pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and red onion on each skewer.
π― Honey Lemon Shrimp
Add 1 tablespoon honey to the marinade for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Fiber: <1 g
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on the exact ingredients used.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Skewers
- Use large or jumbo shrimp so they stay juicy on the grill.
- Don’t overcookβshrimp are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Keep shrimp similar in size for even cooking.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brightens all the flavors. π€π