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: 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; Lemon wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty

I absolutely love grilling during the warmer months, and these Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers are a favorite in my household. The zesty lemon marinade adds a bright, refreshing flavor that perfectly complements the sweet shrimp. Preparing these skewers is incredibly easy, making them ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a summer barbecue. Fire up the grill and let the tantalizing aroma of lemon and shrimp fill your backyard as you enjoy this delicious dish.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:57:36.555Z

When I first made these grilled shrimp skewers, I was amazed at how the simple marinade transformed the shrimp into something extraordinary. The blend of garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil infuses the shrimp with flavor while keeping them moist on the grill. I found that marinating for just 15 minutes really enhances the taste without compromising the shrimp's texture.

One specific tip I've learned is to soak the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and helps ensure that the skewers hold together, making it easier to turn and serve the shrimp. Trust me, this step makes a noticeable difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy evenings
Juicy shrimp grilled to perfection, every time

Maximizing Flavor with Marinade Techniques

The marinade is the star of this dish, and using fresh ingredients makes a significant difference in flavor. I recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of store-bought varieties, as it has a more vibrant taste and aroma. Additionally, you can adjust the marinade to your preference by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or swapping out the paprika for smoked paprika to add depth to the flavor profile.

When mixing the marinade, make sure to whisk vigorously to emulsify the olive oil and lemon juice, resulting in a silky texture that coats the shrimp evenly. If you want to prepare the marinade ahead of time, you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a good stir before adding the shrimp, as the ingredients may separate while sitting.

Perfecting the Grilling Technique

Achieving the ideal texture for grilled shrimp is all about timing and temperature. As you preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensure it reaches around 400-450°F. This range helps achieve that signature char and prevents the shrimp from overcooking. A well-heated grill will give the shrimp a slight caramelization, creating delightful golden edges that enhance the overall flavor profile.

Consider using skewers made of stainless steel or soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning. When grilling, avoid crowding the shrimp on the skewers, as this will lead to uneven cooking. Each shrimp should have enough space around it to allow for proper heat circulation, resulting in tender and juicy bites.

Ingredients

For the marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the skewers

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.

Marinate the shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Allow to marinate for 15 minutes.

Preheat the grill

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Assemble the skewers

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill the skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing

These Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They can be served over a bed of mixed greens tossed in vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the grilled flavors. Alternatively, they pair wonderfully with creamy dips like tzatziki or a homemade garlic aioli, which can enhance the taste of the shrimp while adding another layer of flavor to your meal.

For a buffet-style setting, consider presenting the skewers alongside grilled vegetables—such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions—that echo the citrus flavor of the shrimp. Not only does this create an eye-catching presentation, but it also delivers a balanced meal that satisfies various taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the shrimp. Adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of broth while reheating can help maintain moisture and flavor.

If you’d like to prepare these skewers in advance for a gathering, consider marinating the shrimp and then skewering them without grilling. Store the assembled skewers in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before grilling to keep them fresh. This not only saves you time during busy meal prep but ensures that your shrimp soak up even more flavor from the marinade.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I serve these skewers with?

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

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

For best results, marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. Longer can lead to a mushy texture.