Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

The first time I made these shrimp skewers was during a chaotic Tuesday when I needed something that felt fancy but came together fast. My kitchen smelled like a Mediterranean restaurant within minutes, and I stood there just inhaling the lemon-garlic steam rising from the marinade. These skewers have since saved me on countless busy weeknights when takeout feels like too much effort but I still want something special.

I served these at a small gathering last summer, standing over my grill pan while friends gathered around the kitchen island. Someone reached over and stole a shrimp straight off the platter, burning their fingers slightly but declaring it worth it. The entire batch disappeared before I could even transfer everything to a serving dish.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Tails on make them easier to handle and look gorgeous on the platter, plus they act like little handles when youre eating
• Olive oil: This carries all the lemon and garlic flavors into the shrimp while keeping them juicy
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Bottle juice works but fresh makes such a huge difference in brightness
• Lemon zest: Dont skip this because it holds all the fragrant oils that make the dish pop
• Garlic cloves: Minced finely so the flavor distributes evenly without big chunks
• Smoked paprika: Adds this subtle smoky depth that makes you think they cooked over real wood fire
• Salt and pepper: Keep the black pepper freshly ground for those little spicy bites
• Fresh parsley: Brings color and a fresh herbal finish that cuts through the richness

Instructions

Whisk together the marinade:

Grab a large bowl and combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley until everything is well blended and fragrant

Marinate the shrimp:

Add the shrimp and toss until completely coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes but no longer than 30 or the texture starts changing

Heat things up:

Get your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and soak wooden skewers now if you're using them

Thread the shrimp:

Slide about 4 or 5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a tiny bit of space between them so they cook evenly

Grill to perfection:

Cook for just 2 to 3 minutes per side until they're opaque throughout with those gorgeous charred edges

Serve immediately:

Transfer to your platter, squeeze some fresh lemon wedges over the top, and sprinkle extra parsley while they're still hot

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These skewers have become my answer to everything from casual weeknight dinners to impromptu guests. There's something about food on a stick that makes people smile, and the way the garlic hits your nose when they come off the grill is pure summer.

Make Ahead Strategy

You can whisk the marinade together up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the shrimp until about 30 minutes before you plan to cook them.

Serving Ideas

I love these over a simple arugula salad with shaved parmesan, or with warm crusty bread to soak up all those flavorful juices. They also work beautifully as an appetizer passed around at parties.

Flavor Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I want a little heat. You can also swap the parsley for fresh basil or cilantro if you prefer.

• Try honey instead of some lemon for a sweet glazed version
• Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for extra tang
• Substitute scallops or chicken thighs and adjust cooking time accordingly

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Hope these bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine. Happy grilling.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should shrimp marinate for best flavor?

Marinating shrimp for 10 to 30 minutes allows the lemon garlic blend to infuse without overpowering the seafood’s natural taste.

→ What is the ideal grilling time for shrimp skewers?

Grill shrimp skewers for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred, ensuring a tender texture.

→ Can the marinade be adjusted for spiciness?

Yes, adding red pepper flakes to the marinade introduces a pleasant heat that complements the citrus and garlic flavors.

→ What are good side dishes to accompany these shrimp skewers?

Light salads, rice dishes, or crusty bread pair well, enhancing the fresh, zesty notes of the shrimp.

→ Are wooden skewers necessary for grilling?

Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning; metal skewers are also suitable for convenient grilling.