Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a quick and easy dish packed with flavor! Marinated in a fragrant blend of garlic, lemon, fresh herbs, and a hint of cayenne pepper, the shrimp are grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy, tender bites. Perfect for summer BBQs, weeknight dinners, or any special occasion, these shrimp skewers are sure to impress your guests and are a hit with everyone who loves seafood.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)

Directions

Make the Marinade:

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Marinate the Shrimp:

1. Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour 3/4 of the marinade over the shrimp.

2. Mix gently until the shrimp are well coated.

3. Cover and let marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the fridge.

Prepare the Shrimp for Grilling:

1. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure to include some of the garlic and herbs from the marinade on each skewer.

Grill the Shrimp:

1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Once hot, place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Serve:

1. Remove the shrimp from the skewers and place them on a plate.

2. Spoon the remaining marinade over the grilled shrimp before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Marinate Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 5

Variations

• Add more spice: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chili flakes to the marinade for extra heat.

• Herb variations: Try using different herbs like basil or thyme for a slightly different flavor.

• Vegetable skewers: Add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover grilled shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

2. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before using.

3. Can I grill the shrimp on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan works great for this recipe. Just ensure the pan is heated to medium-high before adding the shrimp.

4. Can I use shrimp without shells?

Yes, you can use peeled shrimp for this recipe, but leaving the shells on adds extra flavor and makes the shrimp easier to handle on the grill.

5. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They cook quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes per side, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

6. Can I use the same marinade for chicken or other proteins?

Yes, this marinade works well with chicken, fish, or even tofu! Just adjust the marinating time as needed based on the protein.

7. How can I make this recipe even more flavorful?

You can add a splash of lemon juice or more garlic to the marinade for a bit of extra zest.

8. Can I bake the shrimp instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re cooked through.

9. How can I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is preheated and lightly oiled before placing the shrimp on it. You can also use a grill basket for shrimp to prevent them from falling through the grates.

10. Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal skewers?

Yes, just be sure to soak the wooden skewers in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Conclusion

These Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for summer grilling or any time you want a quick and satisfying meal. With a garlicky, herb-infused marinade and a bit of heat from cayenne, these shrimp are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, these skewers are sure to impress and are easy to make in just 40 minutes!

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