Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Nothing screams summer quite like the smoky, sizzling aroma of grilled shrimp skewers. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is a must-have for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or beachside parties.

Grilled shrimp skewers have always held a special place at our family gatherings.

Growing up near the coast, seafood was a staple.

Every summer, we’d gather around the grill, stringing fresh shrimp onto wooden skewers while sharing stories.

My dad always added a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chili flakes just before grilling, and that simple touch made all the difference.

Now, every time I prepare this recipe, it brings back the laughter, warmth, and those laid-back summer evenings.

Why You’ll Love This

1. Fast & Easy: From marination to grilling, this entire recipe takes under 30 minutes.
2. Bursting with Flavor: A garlicky citrus marinade makes the shrimp juicy and irresistible.
3. Healthy & Protein-Rich: A light, low-calorie option packed with protein and essential nutrients.
4. Perfect for Entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that’s as impressive as it is simple to make.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Cuisines: American, Mediterranean
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $12–$15

Equipment:

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Tongs
• Brush (for oil or marinade)

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if using)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water to prevent burning.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, keeping them close together but not tightly packed.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Place skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until shrimp turn pink and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

Nutrition Facts (per serving – approx.)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 580mg

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly—2 to 3 minutes per side is all you need. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery.
2. Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
3. Use Fresh Lemon Zest: It adds brightness and enhances flavor more than bottled juice alone.
4. Serve Immediately: Grilled shrimp taste best right off the grill, hot and juicy.

Common Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.

2. What can I serve with shrimp skewers?
They pair perfectly with rice, couscous, grilled veggies, or a fresh garden salad.

3. How long should I marinate the shrimp?
10–15 minutes is enough. Shrimp don’t need long marinades—too long and the lemon juice may start to “cook” them.

4. Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, bake at 425°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also broil for a charred effect.

Print Pin

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Nothing screams summer quite like the smoky, sizzling aroma of grilled shrimp skewers. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is a must-have for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or beachside parties.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Keyword Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 210kcal

Cost $12–$15

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes optional
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish
• Wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes if using

Instructions

• Marinate the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
• Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water to prevent burning.
• Assemble the Skewers: Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, keeping them close together but not tightly packed.
• Grill the Shrimp: Place skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until shrimp turn pink and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking.
• Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

Notes

1. Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly—2 to 3 minutes per side is all you need. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery.
2. Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
3. Use Fresh Lemon Zest: It adds brightness and enhances flavor more than bottled juice alone.
4. Serve Immediately: Grilled shrimp taste best right off the grill, hot and juicy.

With its smoky edges, garlicky punch, and juicy bite, grilled shrimp skewers are the taste of summer on a stick.

Whether you’re firing up the BBQ or using a grill pan indoors, this recipe delivers crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal effort.

Happy grilling and enjoy every juicy bite!