Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp skewers
These Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp skewers are the perfect summer dish that brings together the bright, zesty flavors of fresh lemon with aromatic herbs. The Best lemon herb grilled shrimp skewers with marinade recipe combines simplicity with gourmet results, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
What makes this recipe truly special is the marinade that perfectly balances acidity, herbs, and spices to create shrimp that are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The shrimp cook quickly on the grill, developing a beautiful char while remaining succulent inside. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍽️ Restaurant-quality flavor at home: The marinade creates shrimp that taste like they came from a fine dining establishment.
- ⏱️ Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- ✨ Versatile and impressive: Works as an appetizer, main course, or salad topper for any occasion.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly and healthy: Packed with protein and flavor without heavy sauces or complicated techniques.
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water 30 minutes)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to create the marinade for your Best lemon herb grilled shrimp skewers with marinade recipe.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then add them to the marinade. Toss gently to coat each shrimp evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes (no longer than 30 minutes as the acid can start to cook the shrimp).
- While shrimp marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving small spaces between them for even cooking. Reserve any remaining marinade for basting.
- Place shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until shrimp turn pink and develop grill marks.
- Flip skewers and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, brushing with reserved marinade during the first minute of cooking. Shrimp are done when opaque throughout and firm to the touch.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges before serving.
💡 CHEF’S TIP: Don’t marinate shrimp longer than 30 minutes as the acid in the lemon juice will start to “cook” the shrimp, making them tough when grilled. For best results, use fresh herbs rather than dried—they make a significant difference in flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.8 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry before marinating to ensure the flavors adhere properly and the shrimp get a good sear on the grill.
What’s the best way to prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. Brush the grates with vegetable oil using tongs and a paper towel. Also, ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat before adding the shrimp skewers.
Can I cook these shrimp in the oven or on a stovetop?
Yes! For oven baking, place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. For stovetop, use a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat, cooking 2-3 minutes per side.
Conclusion
This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for any occasion. The Best lemon herb grilled shrimp skewers with marinade recipe balances bright citrus with aromatic herbs to create shrimp that are tender, juicy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for an impressive appetizer, these grilled shrimp skewers won’t disappoint. Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s become a favorite among home cooks and seafood lovers alike.
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