Description
These Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Succulent shrimp marinated in a Mediterranean-inspired mixture of olive oil, lemon, and aromatic herbs, then quickly grilled to juicy perfection. These skewers make an impressive yet easy appetizer or main course that’s ready in just 15 minutes – perfect for summer entertaining or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 bamboo skewers
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb large shrimp (31/40 size, peeled and deveined)
Instructions
- Prepare the skewers: Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30-60 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. This important step ensures your skewers won’t catch fire on the grill and will maintain their integrity throughout the cooking process.
- Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. This aromatic marinade will infuse the shrimp with a Mediterranean flavor profile that perfectly complements their natural sweetness.
- Marinate the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and gently turn to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow shrimp to marinate for 15-30 minutes, but no longer than that. Shrimp is delicate and will begin to break down if marinated too long in acidic ingredients like lemon juice.
- Preheat the cooking surface: Meanwhile, preheat your grill for about 15 minutes, or a grill pan for 3-5 minutes, over medium-high heat. A properly preheated grill ensures beautiful sear marks and prevents sticking.
- Skewer the shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the marinade and thread them onto the soaked skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the skewers: Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp is pink and opaque on the bottom but still slightly translucent on top. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until completely opaque. Be careful not to overcook as shrimp can quickly become tough and rubbery.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving.
- Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of tzatziki sauce, grilled vegetables, or a fresh Greek salad.
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.
- Metal skewers can be used as an alternative to bamboo and don’t require soaking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pound of shrimp
- Calories: 208kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 496mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 182mg
