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Quick Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe Easy Juicy Summer Dinner Ideas

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A quick and easy grilled shrimp skewer recipe perfect for summer dinners, featuring a bright citrus and smoky marinade that keeps shrimp juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water 30 minutes before grilling)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the large shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. (5 minutes)
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until combined. (3 minutes)
  3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes. (15-20 minutes)
  4. Soak wooden skewers in water if using to prevent burning. (30 minutes soak time, prep can be done earlier)
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Clean and lightly oil grates. (5 minutes)
  6. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess drip off. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, piercing near tail and thicker end. (5 minutes)
  7. Place skewers on grill. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until shrimp turn pink and opaque with slight char marks. (4-6 minutes)
  8. Optionally baste shrimp once after flipping with leftover marinade, avoiding early basting to prevent flare-ups.
  9. Remove skewers from grill, sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top, and serve immediately with lemon wedges. (2 minutes)

Notes

Do not marinate shrimp longer than 30 minutes to avoid mushy texture. Preheat grill thoroughly and oil grates to prevent sticking. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Soak wooden skewers before grilling to prevent burning. Watch shrimp closely to avoid overcooking; shrimp are done when pink, opaque, and curled into a loose ‘C’ shape.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled shrimp, shrimp skewers, summer dinner, quick recipe, easy shrimp, seafood, barbecue, marinade, healthy dinner