Few things scream “summer” quite like the sizzle of shrimp skewers on the grill. Grilled shrimp skewers are a perfect mix of simplicity, flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea, this dish checks every box. Juicy shrimp kissed with a smoky, charred flavor is an absolute treat, especially when paired with fresh spices and a drizzle of zesty marinade. It’s easy to prepare, cooks in minutes, and looks stunning on any plate!
Follow along as we break down everything you need—from assembling your ingredients to mastering perfect grill marks.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible grilled shrimp skewers (serves 4):
- 1 ½ lbs (about 24 large) shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for visual appeal, or tail-off if you prefer)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Optional Add-ins
- Cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, bell pepper chunks, or pineapple chunks for colorful and flavorful additions to your skewers.
Preparation Steps
1. Prep Your Shrimp
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Rinse your shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. This marinade is the key to rich, zesty, and smoky flavors.
3. Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl, tossing well to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. Keep in mind that shrimp marinate quickly, so avoid marinating them longer than 30 minutes as the acidic lemon juice could begin to “cook” the shrimp.
4. Skewer the Shrimp
Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing through the top and bottom of each one so they lay flat. Alternate with your optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes or peppers for a pop of color.
5. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill for about 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and get those irresistible grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can turn rubbery if left on too long.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once off the grill, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the skewers for a vibrant finish. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra tangy burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Choose the right shrimp. Look for large or jumbo shrimp, as smaller ones can easily overcook.
- Don’t over-marinate. Shrimp are delicate and can start to toughen if left in a marinade for too long.
- Pay attention to the grill time. Shrimp cook incredibly fast and should only take a few minutes on each side. Watch for their color change as your indicator.
- Add some variety. Thread different vegetables or fruits alongside the shrimp for extra texture and flavor. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even mango chunks can elevate the skewers.
What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are versatile, making them easy to pair with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Light salads like a citrus avocado salad or a classic Greek salad.
- Grilled vegetables such as asparagus, corn on the cob, or bell peppers.
- Rice or grains like coconut rice, quinoa, or a herbed couscous.
- Crusty bread to mop up any leftover marinade or juices.
- Tropical salsas like mango-pineapple or tomato-cucumber to complement the shrimp’s smoky flavor.
Final Thoughts
Grilled shrimp skewers are a timeless recipe that packs big flavor with minimal effort. They’re a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for relaxed evenings or special gatherings. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable, so you can tailor the ingredients to suit your taste. Fire up your grill, grab some shrimp, and get ready for a meal that’s sure to make waves (pun intended) with anyone who tastes it!
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