These Grilled Garlic Shrimp Skewers are quick, juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer grilling. The shrimp are coated in a simple garlic, lemon, and herb marinade before being grilled until lightly charred on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside.
They make an easy appetizer, a delicious main course, or a great addition to a BBQ spread.
Ingredients
For the shrimp
- 1 ½ lb (700 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley
- Extra melted garlic butter, optional
You’ll also need
- Wooden or bamboo skewers
Instructions
1. Prepare the shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick and gives the shrimp a better grilled texture.
2. Make the marinade
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Add the shrimp and toss well until they’re evenly coated.
Let the shrimp marinate for 10–15 minutes.
3. Prepare the skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20–30 minutes to help prevent them from burning.
Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Grill the shrimp
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
They’re ready when they turn pink and opaque and develop lightly charred edges.
Avoid overcooking them, as shrimp can quickly become tough and rubbery.
5. Finish and serve
Remove the shrimp from the grill and brush with a little extra garlic butter if desired.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp
Use large shrimp: They’re easier to grill without overcooking.
Don’t marinate for too long: Because the marinade contains lemon juice, 10–15 minutes is plenty.
Keep an eye on them: Shrimp cook very quickly, so don’t walk away from the grill.
Get the grill hot: A hot grill gives the shrimp those beautiful golden-brown charred edges.
Serve immediately: Grilled shrimp are best when they’re hot, juicy, and fresh off the grill.
What to Serve With Grilled Shrimp
These shrimp pair beautifully with:
- Garlic butter rice
- Grilled vegetables
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted potatoes
- Corn on the cob
- Pasta
- Couscous
- Crusty bread
For an easy summer dinner, serve them with grilled vegetables, rice, and plenty of fresh lemon.
