Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers Recipe

There's something magical about the sizzle of shrimp hitting a hot grill, filling the air with the bright aroma of lemon and fresh herbs. The tender, juicy shrimp absorb the zesty marinade beautifully, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.

I first whipped up these grilled lemon herb shrimp skewers for a summer barbecue with friends. The simplicity of the recipe won everyone over, and it’s now a staple anytime we fire up the grill.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite.

Why You'll Love This Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

Get ready to fall head over heels for a recipe that’s as impressive as it is simple. These grilled lemon herb shrimp skewers deliver on all fronts: taste, ease, and versatility.

First, they’re incredibly quick to make. From marinating to grilling, the entire process takes under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals or spontaneous gatherings.

They’re also wonderfully light and healthy. Shrimp are naturally low in fat and high in protein, while the lemon-herb marinade adds vibrant flavor without piling on calories.

Budget-friendly is another huge plus. Shrimp, especially when bought frozen and thawed, are often very affordable. The rest of the ingredients are pantry staples, keeping costs low without sacrificing taste.

And let’s not forget the versatility. These skewers can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even chopped into salads or wraps. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for two, they adapt beautifully.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these grilled lemon herb shrimp skewers lies in their straightforward ingredient list, each item contributing to the dish’s fresh, vibrant taste.

The star of the show is, of course, the shrimp. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, with the tails left on for presentation. Fresh or frozen both work well, but if using frozen, be sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before marinating to help the flavors cling better.

Next up is the lemon. Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright, citrusy tang that cuts through the richness of the shrimp. I also like to add a bit of lemon zest for an extra punch of flavor that makes these skewers stand out.

The herbs are where you can get a bit creative. I typically use a combination of fresh parsley and thyme, but you can easily substitute with dill, basil, or cilantro depending on your taste. The herbs add an earthy freshness that complements the lemon beautifully.

For richness and moisture, olive oil is essential. It not only helps coat the shrimp evenly but also prevents them from sticking to the grill while adding a subtle, fruity undertone.

Finally, don’t forget the garlic. Minced garlic infuses the marinade with a savory depth that balances the brightness of the lemon and herbs perfectly. A touch of salt and freshly ground black pepper rounds everything out.

For equipment, you’ll need a few simple items: a large mixing bowl for the marinade, metal or soaked wooden skewers for grilling, and a grill or grill pan. That’s it!

How To Make This Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

Making these delicious shrimp skewers couldn’t be easier. Let me walk you through the simple steps to grill perfection.

Start by preparing your marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended and fragrant.

Next, add your prepared shrimp to the bowl, tossing them gently to ensure each piece is well coated in the flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, up to 30 minutes will allow even more flavor to develop.

While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, piercing each one through the thickest part to hold them securely. Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers; leaving a little space between each shrimp ensures even cooking.

Once the grill is hot and ready, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp turn pink and opaque with slight grill marks.

In less than 10 minutes on the grill, your shrimp skewers will be perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Serve them hot with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty touch.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers, these grilled shrimp skewers store quite well. Allow the shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them sealed tightly to maintain their moisture and prevent any seafood odors from spreading.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking. A quick warm-up in a skillet over low heat or a brief zap in the microwave (30-60 seconds) will bring them back to life without making them rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste and dietary needs.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinade. The heat pairs beautifully with the citrus and herbs.

If you’re not a fan of shrimp, this marinade works wonderfully with other proteins like scallops, chicken breast chunks, or even firm fish like mahi-mahi or salmon.

Vegetarian? Substitute the shrimp with thick slices of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. The vegetables soak up the lemon-herb marinade and grill beautifully.

You can also experiment with different herb combinations. Fresh dill adds a more delicate, slightly sweet flavor, while cilantro gives the dish a bold, slightly exotic twist.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. This recipe serves as a fantastic base for experimentation, allowing you to adjust flavors to perfectly suit your preferences.

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