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Best Shrimp Skewer

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  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These shrimp skewers are juicy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned with a simple marinade of garlic, lemon, and herbs. Grilled to perfection in just minutes, they’re great for backyard cookouts, weeknight dinners, or as a light, protein-packed meal any time of year.


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

  • Metal or wooden skewers (soaked in water if wooden)


Instructions

  • Make the marinade:
    In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, pepper, and chopped herbs.

  • Marinate the shrimp:
    Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15–30 minutes.

  • Preheat the grill:
    Heat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

  • Assemble the skewers:
    Thread shrimp onto skewers, 4–6 per skewer, depending on size.

  • Grill the shrimp:
    Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink, opaque, and lightly charred.

 

  • Serve:
    Remove from the grill and serve hot with extra lemon wedges, over rice, salad, or on their own!


Notes

  • Don’t over-marinate shrimp—30 minutes is plenty or they’ll get mushy.

  • These are also great baked at 425°F for 8–10 minutes if you don’t have a grill.

 

  • Serve with garlic butter, rice pilaf, or fresh corn for a full meal.