Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor, these shrimp skewers are the ultimate quick-and-easy meal for grilling season. Marinated in a zesty blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in just minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Ideal for grilling, broiling, or cooking on a stovetop grill pan
Customizable marinade with ingredients you likely already have
Pairs beautifully with salads, rice, or veggies
High in protein and low in carbs

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Paprika
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers

directions

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning.
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Marinate for 15-30 minutes.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
Remove from grill and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 15-30 minutes marinating time)
Cook time: 6 minutes
Total time: 30-45 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers.
Use a spicy marinade with chili flakes or sriracha.
Swap lemon juice for lime for a tropical twist.
Try a Mediterranean version with feta and fresh parsley.
Make it a surf-and-turf with steak cubes.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or briefly in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

FAQs

How long should I marinate shrimp for skewers?

Marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes and up to 30 minutes. Longer can cause the acid to break down the texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating to help the marinade adhere.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, for both taste and presentation, it’s best to peel and devein shrimp.

Can I bake the shrimp skewers instead of grilling?

Yes. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with shrimp skewers?

Serve with rice, quinoa, couscous, grilled vegetables, or a light salad.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is clean and well-oiled before cooking. You can also oil the shrimp lightly.

Are shrimp skewers healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein, low in calories and carbs, and great for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

You can marinate and skewer the shrimp a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until grilling.

What type of shrimp is best for skewers?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best since they stay juicy and are easier to thread onto skewers.

Can I make this recipe indoors?

Absolutely. Use a stovetop grill pan or broil the skewers in the oven.

Conclusion

These best shrimp skewers are a crowd-pleaser you can whip up with minimal prep and maximum flavor. Perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or healthy meal prep, they offer versatility and taste that everyone will enjoy. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to in your recipe rotation.