Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers (Printable version)
Tender shrimp infused with zesty lemon and garlic, grilled to a perfect light meal or appetizer.
# What You'll Need:
→ Seafood
01 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
→ Marinade
02 - 3 tbsp olive oil
03 - 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
04 - 2 tsp lemon zest
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 tsp dried oregano
07 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
08 - ½ tsp salt
09 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ To Serve
10 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
11 - Lemon wedges
# How to Prepare:
01 - Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined.
02 - Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, tossing gently to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes, avoiding longer marination to prevent the citrus from over-curing the seafood.
03 - If using wooden skewers, submerge them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent scorching during grilling. Metal skewers can be used directly.
04 - Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature, approximately 400°F, ensuring the cooking surface is clean and lightly oiled.
05 - Remove shrimp from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Thread each shrimp onto skewers by piercing once near the tail section and once near the head end, leaving slight space between pieces for even heat circulation.
06 - Place skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the shrimp turn opaque throughout and develop light char marks. Do not overcook as shrimp will become rubbery.
07 - Transfer skewers to a serving platter, sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley, and arrange lemon wedges alongside for squeezing. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- The marinade comes together in under 5 minutes but tastes like something from a restaurant
- These cook so fast you can have dinner ready in less than 30 minutes start to finish
02 -
- Over-marinating in lemon juice makes shrimp tough and mealy, so stick to the 30 minute maximum
- Skip the wooden skewers if you're in a rush, metal ones work perfectly without soaking
03 -
- Pat the shrimp dry before marinating so the coating actually sticks
- Leave a tiny bit of space between shrimp on the skewer for even cooking