Grilled

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Name: Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano; 1 tsp (5g) paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley; 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes; 1 lemon, cut into wedges; 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted

By Sofia Marlowe · June 18, 2026 · Grilled

Prep20 min

Cook10 min

Total30 min

Serves4

Grilled Shrimp Skewers — Succulent shrimp, perfectly grilled

There's something special about a seafood dinner that just feels like a treat. For me, it's the smell of saltwater and the sound of seagulls that instantly transports me back to my childhood, spending summers by the coast where my father worked as a fishmonger. One of my favorite dishes from those days is Grilled Shrimp Skewers - it's a classic, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.

I remember helping my father in his shop, learning all about the different types of fish and seafood, and how to prepare them. He taught me that the key to cooking great seafood is to keep it simple and let the natural flavors shine through. That's exactly what we'll do with this recipe for Grilled Shrimp Skewers.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and delicious seafood dinner that's also healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, you'll love how straightforward and forgiving this dish is. And the best part? It's ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

So, let's dive in and explore what makes this recipe so special. From the marinade to the grilling technique, we'll cover everything you need to know to create mouth-watering Grilled Shrimp Skewers that will impress your family and friends.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve the shrimp skewers as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a larger seafood platter. They're also a great option for outdoor gatherings, as they're easy to transport and can be grilled to perfection in just a few minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time.
The dish is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner option, packed with protein and flavor.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings and parties.
The recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize the marinade and serving options to your taste.
It's a budget-friendly option, as shrimp are generally an affordable seafood choice.
The dish is also family-friendly, with kids loving the fun and interactive aspect of eating skewers.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to this recipe lies in the combination of a simple yet flavorful marinade and the right grilling technique. By using a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, we create a marinade that not only adds flavor to the shrimp but also helps to keep them moist and tender during the grilling process.

Another key factor is the temperature control. Grilling the shrimp over medium-high heat allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking them through to the perfect doneness. This is where the magic happens - the shrimp will start to curl and turn pink, indicating they're done.

Finally, it's all about the layering of flavors. By adding a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and parsley at the end, we enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp and add a burst of freshness to each bite. This balance of flavors is what makes this dish truly special.

By following these simple steps and using the right techniques, you'll be able to create Grilled Shrimp Skewers that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The key is to pay attention to the details and not be afraid to experiment and try new things.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to the ingredients, we're keeping things simple and fresh. We'll be using large shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of herbs to create our marinade. The key is to use high-quality ingredients that complement the natural flavor of the shrimp.

One tip when shopping for shrimp is to look for those that are labeled as 'sustainably sourced' or 'wild-caught'. Not only is this better for the environment, but it also tends to result in a more flavorful and textured shrimp.

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedLook for sustainably sourced or wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that has a rich, fruity flavor to enhance the dish.
2 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for adding depth to the marinade. You can also use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute if you don't have fresh garlic.
2 tbsp (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juiceUse a manual or electric juicer to extract the juice from 1-2 lemons, depending on their size and your desired level of citrus flavor.
1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoThis herb adds a subtle earthy flavor that complements the shrimp nicely. You can also use fresh oregano if you have it on hand.
1 tsp (5g) paprikaPaprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Use the sweet or smoked variety, depending on your preference.
Salt and pepper to tasteUse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to season the shrimp. Start with a light hand and adjust to taste, as the amount of salt and pepper needed may vary depending on the shrimp and your personal preference.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. Use curly-leaf or flat-leaf parsley, whichever you prefer.
10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutesSoaking the skewers helps prevent them from burning on the grill. You can also use metal skewers if you prefer.
1 lemon, cut into wedgesServe the lemon wedges on the side, allowing each guest to squeeze a sliver of fresh lemon juice over their shrimp.
2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, meltedMelted butter adds a rich, creamy element to the dish. You can also use olive oil or other melted fats if you prefer.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowl for marinatingSharp chef's knife for chopping garlic and parsleyCutting board for preparing ingredientsGrill or grill pan for cooking the shrimpTongs or spatula for turning the shrimpInstant-read thermometer for checking internal temperature

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Skewers

1
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
4
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
5
Brush the grates of the grill or grill pan with 1-2 tbsp (15-30ml) of olive oil to prevent sticking.
6
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and curl slightly.
7
Using tongs or a spatula, carefully turn the shrimp skewers to cook the other side.
8
Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the grill and brush with melted butter.
9
Sprinkle the cooked shrimp with chopped parsley and serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
10
Allow each guest to squeeze a sliver of fresh lemon juice over their shrimp before serving.
11
Serve the Grilled Shrimp Skewers hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Expert Tips

Make sure to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before grilling to remove excess moisture and promote even cooking.
Don't overcrowd the grill or grill pan, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
To add extra flavor, you can also brush the shrimp with a mixture of melted butter and lemon juice during the last minute of cooking.
For a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or sprinkle them over the cooked shrimp.
To make the dish more substantial, you can serve the Grilled Shrimp Skewers with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
Consider using a variety of colorful bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to add visual appeal to the skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the grill or grill pan, which can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
Not patting the shrimp dry before grilling, which can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior.
Not soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling, which can cause them to burn.
Not cooking the shrimp to the correct internal temperature, which can result in undercooked or overcooked shrimp.
Not letting the shrimp rest for a minute or two after cooking, which can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
Not serving the shrimp immediately after cooking, which can cause them to lose their heat and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of protein, such as chicken or beef, for a variation on the recipe.
Add some heat to the dish by incorporating spicy ingredients, such as red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos, into the marinade.
Experiment with various marinades, such as a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger, for a unique flavor profile.
Add some color and texture to the skewers by incorporating a variety of vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions.
For a Mediterranean twist, try adding some feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skewers.
To make the dish more substantial, serve the Grilled Shrimp Skewers with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Consider using a variety of herbs, such as parsley, basil, or cilantro, to add fresh flavor to the dish.

What to Serve With Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Serve the Grilled Shrimp Skewers hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. You can also serve them with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Some other ideas for serving the Grilled Shrimp Skewers include:

Pairing them with a refreshing salad, such as a Greek salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

Serving them with a side of garlic bread or grilled pita for a fun and interactive meal.

Offering them as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering, paired with a variety of dips and sauces.

Grilled asparagus with lemon butterRoasted vegetables with quinoaGreek salad with feta cheeseGarlic bread with olive oilMixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigretteGrilled pita with hummus

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

If you need to store the Grilled Shrimp Skewers, it's best to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

To reheat the shrimp, simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 3 months. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer.

To reheat frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above.

It's also possible to make the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Simply whisk the ingredients together and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of large shrimp for this recipe, such as Gulf shrimp or Pacific white shrimp. Just make sure to choose shrimp that are fresh and of good quality.

Can I use wooden skewers instead of bamboo?

Yes, you can use wooden skewers instead of bamboo. Just make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

You can marinate the shrimp for anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavor the shrimp will absorb.

What is the internal temperature of cooked shrimp?

The internal temperature of cooked shrimp should be at least 145°F (63°C). You can check the temperature by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part of the shrimp.

Can I grill the shrimp indoors?

Yes, you can grill the shrimp indoors using a grill pan or a George Foreman grill. Just make sure to preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and curl slightly.

How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?

To prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, make sure to brush the grates with oil before cooking. You can also use a non-stick grill mat or a piece of aluminum foil with holes poked in it to prevent sticking.

Can I serve the shrimp as an appetizer?

Yes, you can serve the shrimp as an appetizer. Simply thread the shrimp onto smaller skewers and serve with a variety of dips and sauces.

How do I store leftover shrimp?

You can store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat the shrimp in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card