Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Name: Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 cloves garlic; 1/4 cup white apple vinegar; Dried parsley; Salt and pepper

Published: July 28, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, these skewers fit easily into your busy schedule.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic and lemon creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your guests.
Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or main course, they suit any meal setting!
Healthy Option: Low in calories and fat, these grilled shrimp skewers are a nutritious choice for seafood lovers.
Customizable: You can adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and successful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Wooden skewers
Shallow baking dish
Whisk
Grill (indoor or outdoor)
Plastic wrap or lid

Importance of Each Tool

Wooden skewers: Soaking them prevents burning on the grill, ensuring your shrimp stay intact.
Shallow baking dish: Ideal for marinating shrimp evenly in the flavorful mixture.
Whisk: Helps blend the marinade ingredients thoroughly for better flavor absorption.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound of large shrimp (approximately 16-20)
The zest and juice of one large lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves of garlic, pressed or very finely chopped
1/4 cup white apple vinegar
2 teaspoons dried parsley
a pinch of salt and pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Additional Items

4-5 wooden skewers
1-2 cups water

How to Make Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

Pour the water into a shallow baking dish and add the wooden skewers. Let them soak while you prepare the shrimp and marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, white apple vinegar, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water. If desired, remove the shells but keep the tails on for presentation.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Remove the wooden skewers from the water and discard any remaining water. Thread four shrimp onto each skewer. Ensure each shrimp is pierced in two places to keep them secure during grilling.

Step 5: Marinate the Shrimp

Place the skewered shrimp in a shallow baking dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each skewer is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

While marinating, heat up your indoor or outdoor grill as per your preference.

Step 7: Grill the Shrimp Skewers

Once marinated, remove the shrimp from the fridge and discard any leftover marinade. Place the skewers on the grill over low heat. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 8: Serve

Carefully remove from grill once cooked through. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are versatile and can elevate any meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of the shrimp perfectly.

On a Fresh Salad

A bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the grilled shrimp.

With Rice or Quinoa

Serve the shrimp skewers over a fluffy bed of rice or quinoa. The grains absorb the marinade’s flavors, adding depth to your dish.

In Tacos

Place the grilled shrimp in soft corn tortillas, topped with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing taco experience.

As an Appetizer

Serve the skewers as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering. They are easy to pick up and enjoy with friends.

With Dipping Sauces

Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or chimichurri for guests to add their favorite flavor twist.

On a Charcuterie Board

Incorporate these skewers into a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers for a gourmet touch.

How to Perfect Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

To ensure your Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp yield better flavor than frozen ones. If using frozen, thaw them properly before marinating.
Marinate longer: While 20-30 minutes is sufficient, marinating for a few hours enhances the taste even more.
Skewer correctly: Threading shrimp through two points prevents them from spinning while grilling and helps achieve even cooking.
Watch the grill temperature: Keep your grill on low heat to avoid overcooking. High heat can lead to tough shrimp.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement their zesty flavor:

Garlic Bread: Crispy bread brushed with garlic butter makes for a perfect accompaniment.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers enhance the barbecue theme and add color.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw gives a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp.
Caesar Salad: This classic salad with its creamy dressing works well with grilled flavors.
Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest mirrors the flavors of the skewers.
Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish packed with fresh vegetables complements the shrimp without overpowering it.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is always a hit at barbecues and pairs nicely with seafood.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer heartiness and balance out lighter fare like shrimp skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

Using unsoaked skewers: If you skip soaking the wooden skewers, they might catch fire on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Over-marinating the shrimp: Leaving shrimp in the marinade for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a marinating time of 20-30 minutes for the best texture and flavor.
Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill for several minutes before placing the shrimp skewers on it.
Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can result in rubbery texture. Grill each skewer for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Skipping the garnish: While optional, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some on top before serving!

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Arrange skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, being careful not to overcook.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

How do I know when my shrimp is done?

Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque. It should also curl slightly but not be tightly curled.

What other marinades work well with grilled shrimp?

You can try spicy marinades with chili powder or citrus-based marinades with lime instead of lemon for different flavor profiles.

Can I make these Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp earlier in the day and grill them just before serving, which helps save time during meal prep.

What sides pair well with these grilled shrimp skewers?

These shrimp go well with salads, grilled vegetables, or rice dishes, adding a healthy balance to your meal.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers offer a delightful combination of flavors that elevate any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various marinades or sides, making them perfect for quick dinners or summer barbecues. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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