Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers

Name: Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; Skewers (soaked in water if using wood)

Highlighted under: International Plates

I absolutely love grilling shrimp, especially when it's infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon. The combination of citrus and garlic gives each skewer a refreshing taste that makes my taste buds dance. Whenever I prepare these Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers, I feel like I'm bringing a bit of summer to my plate, no matter the season. They’re quick to whip up and perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy evening at home with loved ones.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:33:36.291Z

When I first discovered the joy of grilling shrimp, I knew I had to create my own twist on it. After experimenting with various marinades, I landed on a simple but effective mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. The acidity from the lemon not only tenderizes the shrimp but also brings a wonderful brightness that cuts through richer sides.

One tip that I swear by is allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This really allows the flavors to penetrate and elevate your dish. Plus, grilling them for just the right amount of time—about 2-3 minutes per side—ensures they’re cooked perfectly and don’t become rubbery.

Why You'll Love These Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Bright, zesty flavor that awakens your palate
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings
Healthy and light, yet satisfying and delicious

Perfecting Your Marinade

The marinade for these Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers is a crucial element that elevates the overall flavor. The balance of olive oil with lemon juice creates a luscious coating that not only infuses the shrimp with taste but also helps keep them moist while grilling. The acidity of the lemon juice also helps tenderize the shrimp, ensuring they remain plump and juicy. Adjusting the amount of garlic and paprika can add more depth, depending on your personal preference.

When marinating, it's essential to let the shrimp sit in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, although you can refrigerate them for up to two hours for even more flavor absorption. Just be careful not to marinate for too long, as the citric acid can start to 'cook' the shrimp, changing their texture. I find that this short marination period strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture.

Skewering Techniques

When preparing your skewers, it's important to ensure that the shrimp are evenly spaced. This not only helps with uniform cooking but also allows the grill to impart that delightful smoky flavor to each piece. Aim for about 5-6 shrimp per skewer, ensuring that they are snug but not overcrowded. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

For an added flavor twist, consider alternating the shrimp with vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on the skewers. These not only add visual appeal but also absorb some grill flavor, creating a well-rounded bite. Just be aware that vegetables may require varying cooking times, so plan accordingly!

Grilling and Serving Tips

Cooking the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat allows them to develop a lovely golden char while ensuring they remain tender. You'll know they are done when they turn opaque and curl slightly, typically indicating they are perfectly cooked. If they stick to the grill, lightly oil the grates beforehand to prevent this and achieve those beautiful, grill marks.

For serving, I love to pair these skewers with a fresh side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Adding a dollop of herbed yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can further enhance the Mediterranean vibes. Plus, the leftover lemon wedges not only brighten the plate but provide an extra squeeze of brightness right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful grilling experience:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
Skewers (soaked in water if using wood)

Make sure you prepare everything beforehand for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly grilled shrimp:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Skewer the Shrimp

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, approximately 5-6 shrimp per skewer.

Grill the Shrimp

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious grilled lemon shrimp skewers!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try brushing the shrimp with a little melted butter during the last minute of grilling.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers can be prepped in advance, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. Marinade the shrimp up to two hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. This is especially handy for gatherings where you want to minimize last-minute tasks.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. While the texture may change slightly after reheating, they can still be enjoyed. Just reheat gently on the grill or in a sauté pan over low heat to avoid overcooking.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to get creative with the marinade! You can substitute lime juice for lemon for a different citrus twist or add a touch of honey for sweetness. Herbs like cilantro or parsley can also be blended into the marinade for added freshness. If you're looking for a spicier kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

For a gluten-free option, this recipe is naturally free of gluten, but if you're serving it to guests with dietary restrictions, be sure to check the label on your paprika and other ingredients to confirm they're gluten-free, as sometimes blends can contain traces.

Scaling and Serving Suggestions

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling this recipe is straightforward. You can easily double or triple the ingredients, just be mindful of your grill space. Using multiple grilling surfaces, like a grill basket, can help accommodate larger quantities without overcrowding the skewers.

For a fun dining experience, consider serving these grilled skewers with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli or tzatziki, alongside some warm pita bread. This creates an interactive meal where guests can customize their plates, adding to the fun!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are typically done when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! You can broil the shrimp skewers in the oven for about 6-8 minutes, turning them halfway.